After a car wreck or other personal injury accident, you should keep a journal that records how your life has been affected. This documentation will serve as proof to the insurance company that you sustained serious injuries and deserve the maximum amount of compensation.
If you have questions about what to do after an accident or how to file a personal injury claim, contact Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC. We will listen to your story and help you regain your life. Call us today at (313) 462-7979 or use our online contact form to reach out.
Record Your Pain Level and How It Impacts Your Life
Every day, you should write down the level of pain you experience. If it changes throughout the day, you can include additional details or expand your entry. You should rate your pain on a scale of one to 10, from the least amount of pain you’ve ever experienced to the most.
You should also write in your pain journal how it affects your life. For example, if the pain in your back makes you unable to stand for long periods of time, list the activities you can no longer do. Can you cook meals? Can you wash dishes? Is it difficult to vacuum? Thoroughly explain how your pain symptoms limit your normal life.
Describe Symptoms of Your Injuries
You may have been seriously injured in the accident, and those wounds have symptoms that likely limit your life. You should describe all symptoms in your post-accident journal.
For example, if you suffered injuries to your neck and head, you may have been diagnosed with a concussion. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) like a concussion can be mild, moderate, or severe, and the symptoms often continue for days, weeks, months, or even longer. You should detail your dizziness, confusion, headaches, blurry vision, and other symptoms.
Don’t fail to detail how your symptoms impact your life. You may not be able to drive after a serious injury due to fatigue or drowsiness. You may not be able to work like you could before. Describe how your symptoms keep you from living your normal life.
How Often Should I Write in a Post-Accident Journal?
You should document something in your journal at least daily, and more often if possible. Things like pain level and daily impact should be written every day.
You should also document the progression of your conditions weekly. Explain how things are getting better or worse and if your activities of daily living are still being affected.
What Should My Journal Look Like?
You can keep a post-accident journal in a standard ruled notebook, or you can use a template like the one published by Enjuris. The structure of the journal does not matter as long as it contains enough information to prove the severity and impact of your injuries.
Keep your post-accident journal organized and professional. Try not to use scented pink paper or allow it to become stained by random food and drinks. Instead, keep it with your other accident-related documents and get it out when you’re ready to write in it.
Call Davis Injury Lawyers, PLLC For Help After an Accident
Our seasoned personal injury lawyer will stand beside you through a difficult claim. You shouldn’t have to deal with insurance companies alone. Instead, call us at (313) 462-7979 and get started today.