Injury evidence checklist

Photos

• Photograph injuries as soon as possible, then again every few days as they change.
• Photograph the place where it happened, including any hazard.
• Photograph damaged property, such as clothing, a phone or a vehicle.

Medical records

• Get checked by a medical professional and describe every symptom.
• Keep copies of visit summaries, prescriptions and referrals.
• Keep every medical bill and receipt, including travel to appointments.

Work and pay records

• Keep pay stubs from before and after the injury.
• Save notes from your employer about missed days or changed duties.
• Track any paid leave or vacation time you had to use.

Journal

• Write a short daily note about pain, sleep and what you could not do.
• Record dates of appointments, calls and letters with insurers.

Witnesses

• Collect names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened.
• Ask witnesses to write down what they saw while it is fresh.

What to avoid

• Avoid posting about the injury or your activities online.
• Avoid signing a release or accepting a settlement before you understand it.
• Avoid giving a recorded statement to the other side’s insurer without thinking it through.
• Do not throw away damaged items, receipts or medical paperwork.

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