If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury due to an accident or another party’s negligence, documenting your injury thoroughly is crucial for pursuing a successful legal claim. Accurate and comprehensive documentation not only supports your case but also helps in securing the compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, and financial losses.
Our peers from Joseph Law Group, LLC, explain how to effectively document your spinal cord injury to help your attorney build a stronger case.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most important step in documenting a spinal cord injury is to seek immediate medical attention. Your medical records will serve as critical evidence in your case. Ensure that you receive a detailed diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up care recommendations from a qualified healthcare provider. Prompt and comprehensive medical documentation will demonstrate the severity of your injury and the care required.
Request copies of all medical records related to your spinal cord injury. This includes initial assessments, diagnostic tests (such as MRI or CT scans), treatment plans, and any follow-up visits. Your medical records should also include detailed notes on the extent of your injury, recommended treatments, and any prescribed medications. These documents will help establish the seriousness of your injury and the ongoing medical needs.
Keep A Detailed Journal
Maintaining a personal journal can be incredibly valuable in documenting the impact of your spinal cord injury. Record daily experiences, including pain levels, physical limitations, and emotional challenges. Note any changes in your ability to perform daily activities, your interaction with family and friends, and any modifications you’ve had to make in your life. This journal provides a personal account of how the injury has affected your life and can supplement the clinical data with real-life experiences.
A journal isn’t the only kind of documentation your spinal cord injury lawyer may use in your case. Your attorney will likely also ask you to keep meticulous records of all medical expenses related to your spinal cord injury. This includes hospital bills, physician fees, medication costs, physical therapy sessions, and any medical equipment or modifications to your home that may be necessary. Save all receipts and invoices, and organize them in a way that clearly shows the total financial impact of your injury.
Don’t forget to also keep records of all communications related to your case, including correspondence with insurance companies, medical professionals, and legal representatives. Document any conversations, emails, or letters that discuss your injury, treatment, and any offers of settlement. This can help in tracking the progression of your case and ensuring that all relevant information is considered.
Collect Evidence Of Impairment And Disability
Document how your spinal cord injury has impaired your daily life and functionality. This includes collecting evidence such as photographs or videos showing your physical limitations, adaptations to your home or vehicle, and any assistive devices you may use. Testimonies from family members, friends, or caregivers can also provide insight into the challenges you face.
Pursuing Compensation In A Spinal Cord Injury
Thorough and accurate documentation is essential for building a strong case in a spinal cord injury claim. By obtaining detailed medical records, maintaining a personal journal, documenting expenses, and gathering all relevant evidence, you create a comprehensive record of your injury and its impact. Your attorney can help you, and guide you through the documentation process.
