When you've been injured, the hours and days that follow are some of the most important for protecting your health and your legal rights. What you do now can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
1. Get Medical Attention Right Away
Your health is the priority. Even if you feel "okay," see a doctor immediately. Many serious injuries — including concussions, spinal injuries, and internal bleeding — don't show obvious symptoms at first. A timely medical record also connects your injuries directly to the accident, which is critical for your claim.
2. Document the Scene
If you're physically able, take photos and videos of:
- The accident scene from multiple angles
- Your injuries (immediately and as they develop)
- Any vehicles, equipment, or conditions involved
- Witness contact information
3. Report the Accident Through Official Channels
For car accidents, call the police and get an official report. For workplace injuries, report the incident to your supervisor immediately and ensure it is logged in writing. For slip-and-fall incidents, report to the property manager and ask for a written incident report.
4. Keep a Detailed Injury Journal
Starting the day of the injury, document how you feel every day — pain levels, activities you're unable to do, sleep disruptions, emotional impacts. This journal can be powerful evidence of your ongoing pain and suffering.
5. Do Not Speak to the Insurance Company Yet
The at-fault party's insurer may contact you very quickly. Do not give a recorded statement, accept any settlement offer, or sign any documents before speaking to an attorney. Early settlement offers are almost always far below what you're entitled to.
6. Preserve All Evidence
Keep all medical bills, receipts, prescription records, and correspondence related to the accident. Don't repair your vehicle or discard damaged clothing before photographing and documenting everything.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
The sooner you have an attorney, the better positioned you'll be. Evidence gets lost, memories fade, and statutes of limitations apply. At Persinger & Persinger, we offer free consultations and handle cases on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win.