Whether you intend to file a personal injury claim or you’ve already started the proceedings, there are steps you can take to strengthen your case. One such step is to start a personal injury journal.
This journal should contain pertinent details about the accident—such as a description of what happened and eyewitness contact details—as well as entries about how your injuries are affecting your life.
Read on for a more detailed overview of what to include in your personal injury journal:
1.Everything You Remember About the Incident
Your first entry should be a written account of when, where, and how your injuries occurred. Record everything you remember about the accident; no detail is too insignificant to include. This description of events can help you recall important details at a later date and may help your attorney determine how to approach the investigation and the types of evidence to gather.
2. Names and Phone Numbers of Eyewitnesses
If anyone witnessed your accident and you were able to get their contact details, copy their information in your journal. That way, it will be readily accessible when you meet with a personal injury attorney.
3. Challenges You Face During Recovery
Writing daily entries about the recovery process can make your case more compelling. In addition to recording details about doctor’s appointments and missed work, be sure to write entries about any pain and depression caused by your injuries, side effects of medication, and other ways your injuries are affecting your wellbeing and the lives of your loved ones.
Below is a general outline you can use for your daily entries:
- Description of symptoms
- Symptom severity (1 – 10)
- Effect of symptoms on activities
- Date symptoms first noticed
- Duration and frequency of symptoms
- Other notes
For How Long Should I Keep a Personal Injury Journal?
You should write daily entries for as long as your injuries are affecting your life. The more detailed your records, the better. As your condition improves, it’s okay to write in your journal less frequently, but you should always record significant events like medication side effects.
It’s a good idea to make copies of your journal to reduce the risk of losing what you’ve written. If you write your journal digitally, try backing it up on several hard drivers or a cloud drive.
Call (601) 265-7766 to Discuss Your Case with a Jackson Personal Injury Attorney
If you or someone close to you was injured due to another person’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing, turn to Coxwell & Associates. Our lawyers can handle the logistics of your case so you can focus on your health and wellbeing.
During your initial consultation, we’ll answer your questions, explain what to expect over the coming weeks and months, and discuss the steps you can take to strengthen your claim. We will help you navigate every step of the proceedings and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call (601) 265-7766 or use our Online Contact Form to set up a case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer in Jackson.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.