Why It’s a Good Idea to Keep a Journal for Your Car Accident Injuries

A personal injury journal can be any notebook or even mobile phone entries that contain details about your accident.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, then what you care the most about right now is likely your physical recovery. Even if your injuries were minor, you may still have to take some time off work to recover and that can put a lot of financial strain on you and your family. 

The good news is that the at-fault driver is generally responsible for paying for your medical bills and lost wages. However, the burden of proof falls on you, and insurance adjusters will use any opportunity to reduce or deny your claim. 

One way of avoiding this is by documenting your injuries and the entire claim process and use this information as proof if your case goes to court. 

Here’s what you should record in your injury journal. 

What Is a Personal Injury Journal and Why Do You Need One

A personal injury journal can be any notebook or even mobile phone entries that contain details about your accident. The journal may be used as evidence in your car accident injury case, so you need to make sure that the information there is accurate and as detailed as possible. 

The journal should contain details such as: 

• The time and date the accident took place
• Your recollection of the event
• Road conditions, weather conditions, and any other specific details
• Eyewitness contact information
• Police reports
• Conversations with the doctors, police officers, insurance adjusters, and so on
• Medical records

A personal injury journal can help your St. Louis car accident lawyer better understand the severity of your injuries. It can also give them the necessary information to negotiate with the insurance company and ensure that the compensation you receive will cover your medical bills. 

How Often Should You Write in Your Journal

You should start writing in your journal immediately after the accident while your memory is still fresh and you can describe the incident in detail. Add a copy of the police report and witness contact information too.

You should also write in your journal after every medical evaluation and note conversation you had with the doctor and his recommendations. 

You don’t necessarily have to write every day in your journal, but make sure to document all the moments you experience pain or your injury is interfering with your day to day activities. 

Speak With an Experienced Attorney ASAP

If you’ve been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, then you have the right to receive compensation for your piling medical bills and lost wages. However, filing a claim and proving how your injuries are affecting your life isn’t always a straightforward process. 

Get in touch with a St. Louis car accident attorney for help building a strong case.