Personal Injury Checklist

Here is a short checklist of what to do if you have been injured. It is not intended to impart legal advice because each case is different. In addition, you should consult a lawyer immediately to help protect your interests.

1. Report the accident to the police, if the impact was significant. Your lawyer will then obtain the police report if any.
2. Immediately obtain medical treatment if you are injured. Failure to obtain immediate medical treatment reduces your claim that you suffered injuries as a result of the accident.
3. Take pictures of damages to any cars/property involved - before any repairs or improvements are made. Pictures from a disposable camera are better than digital pictures because digital pictures are susceptible to alteration.
4. Take pictures of your injuries immediately. Pictures can more easily and accurately describe injuries.
5. Do NOT make a statement to any insurance representative without consulting a lawyer. Those statements may be used against you in your attempt to obtain full compensation for your injuries.
6. Keep a list of all doctors, hospitals, and treatment centers you visit.
7. Keep a log of all work lost as a result of your injuries and treatments. Lost wages are recoverable and can be a large amount of your recovery.
8. Keep a log of all other out-of-pocket expenses (rental car, medical treatment co-pays, etc.).
9. Keep a log of how your life was specifically affected as a result of your injuries, including personal engagements and events missed.