6 Important Records You Should Keep After a Car Accident

Here are 6 important records you should keep that will strengthen your case after a car accident.

Perhaps you’ve decided to pursue an injury claim after a car accident and have started to think about the records you need to support your claim. Whether you are filing a claim with your insurance company or against the negligent party’s insurer – we’ve put together a list of important records you should have when filing a car accident injury claim. These records will strengthen your claim, and help you prove your case.

Police Reports

According to Missouri accident laws, you should call and record a statement with the police within 30 days after the crash. Police will investigate, question involved parties and witnesses, and file a report. The report generally contains detailed information about the type of accident, the specific injuries or damages sustained, and the accident’s probable cause. A police report will help you paint a picture of the accident.

Photos and Witness Statements

If possible, ensure you capture pictures of your damaged car and sustained bodily injuries. You should also collect contact details and other essential information from witnesses and other drivers at the accident scene. This will help strengthen your case.

Crash Journal

It’s a good idea to write down details of the accident while they are still fresh in your mind. A detailed and chronological outline of the accident will explain how the accident happened and how you got your injuries. It could also go a long way to help your lawyer demonstrate how the defendant caused the accident.

Repair Receipts

Whilst most people will remember to include medical records when filing injury claims, not everyone remembers to include repair receipts. For example, if your car was damaged, you are generally entitled to compensation for repair costs. Therefore, make sure you submit repair receipts when submitting your claim.

Medical Records and Charges Involved

Medical records form an integral part of your claim. You need to have an up-to-date record showing medical reports and billing details. The records should also show every stage of the treatment you received. This should include emergency health care, ward admission, drug prescription, therapy, or advanced treatment.

Record of Your Income

Did you miss work due to the injuries you suffered from the accident? If so, you should be compensated for the income you lost. To prove your loss, you’ll need to provide records to show your income and the amount you lost while recovering from your injuries. Income records should include an attendance register from your employer to prove work absenteeism, tip records, payslips, and bank records.

Seek Assistance from an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

Gathering all the required documents and records on your own can be difficult. Let us help. At The Hoffman Law Firm, we have 25 years of protecting the rights of car accident victims in St. Louis. Call us 24/7 for a FREE case evaluation.