How to Document Your Injuries and the Accident Scene

If you may bring an injury claim, the records you keep can matter as much as anything else. Here is a practical checklist. Always put your safety and health first, and only gather evidence if it is safe to do so.

At the scene

• Photos and video of vehicles, damage, the road, traffic signals or signs, skid marks, weather, and lighting
• The other party's information, including name, contact details, license plate, and insurance
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Police or incident report number, and the officer's name
• Location details, such as the intersection, mile marker, or business name

For a fall or premises incident, photograph the hazard from several angles, with something for scale if possible, and ask whether a report was made.

Your injuries

• Photos of visible injuries soon after the accident, and as they heal
• A simple daily note about pain, symptoms, sleep, and what you cannot do
• Records of every doctor, therapist, and pharmacy you see
• Copies of prescriptions and after-visit summaries

Describing symptoms accurately to your doctor matters. Your medical record becomes the main account of your injuries.

Money

• Medical bills and explanations of benefits
• Pay stubs and a note from your employer about missed work
• Receipts for related costs, such as medication, medical devices, rides, or home help
• Repair estimates and photos of property damage

Paperwork and communication

• Letters from insurers
• Claim numbers and adjuster names
• Dates and summaries of phone calls
• Emails and texts about the accident

Keep it organized

A single folder, physical or digital, works fine. Back up photos and scan receipts, and keep the original damaged items such as clothing, shoes, or helmets unless you are told it is fine to dispose of them.

What to avoid

• Posting about the accident or your recovery on social media
• Deleting messages or photos, even ones you think are unhelpful
• Guessing in written statements

This article is general information, not legal advice. What matters most in a particular claim depends on the facts and the law that applies.