Tiemann Law Firm in Forbes Magazine

call for a free consultation

(916) 999-9000
Home > Accident Attorney > TAKE NOTES AFTER YOUR SACRAMENTO ACCIDENT

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : June 23, 2022
REQUEST FREE CASE REVIEW

Posted on Friday, October 21st, 2016 at 5:35 pm    

If you have been injured in an accident because of the negligent, careless, or reckless acts of another person or entity, you have the right under California personal injury laws to seek compensation for your losses, damages, and injuries. However, the process of recovering compensation is not always easy nor guaranteed. A personal injury claim is a civil matter that requires proof of fault and damages. In many cases, it can take up to a year or more to settle a personal injury claim. Therefore, keeping detailed notes can be extremely valuable for you and your attorney.

What Type of Notes Should I Keep About My Accident?

It is easy to forget key details about an accident as more time passes. For that reason, keeping notes about the accident, your injury, your recovery, and your losses can help you recall details for trial and help your attorney prepare a strong case for settlement.

Your Accident

You may be unable to take notes immediately after your accident; however, you should write down everything you remember as soon as possible.  Memories fade over time; therefore, capturing what you remember immediately after the accident is important. Information you should include:

  • Date, time, and location of the accident
  • The weather conditions at the time of the accident
  • Notes about the surroundings
  • Names and contact information for any eyewitnesses
  • Name of officer or other emergency personnel responding to the accident scene
  • Details about what you were doing immediately before the accident
  • Everything you remembering hearing and seeing immediately prior, during, and after the accident

Your notes are a good place for your attorney to begin his accident investigation.

Your Injuries and Your Recovery

When you file a personal injury claim, you must prove that the other party was at fault for the accident and that you suffered damages because of the accident. Consequently, keeping notes about your injuries and your recovery helps your attorney when he begins to calculate the value of your personal injury claim.

When describing your injuries and recovery include:

  • Detailed description of all injuries (keep photographs of your injuries and your recovery)
  • Pain level each day of your recovery
  • Details regarding how your injuries impact your ability to perform tasks
  • Details regarding how your injuries impact your daily life and your relationship with family and friends
  • Notes from all conversations related to your accident, injuries, and recovery, including the date, time, person, and subject of each conversation

Documentation For Your Claim

As you keep notes regarding your accident, add documentation to substantiate your claim. Examples of documentation that you should retain for your attorney include:

  • Medical invoices, bills, and reports
  • Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
  • Copies of prior pay stubs and tax returns
  • Statements regarding lost wages and income
  • Photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and your recovery
  • Records regarding your travel expenses to and from doctor’s appointments
  • Invoices for personal care or household services you are unable to perform

Any document that relates to your accident should be preserved and provided to your Sacramento personal injury attorney. Therefore, the more documentation you can provide, the better chance you have of recovering full compensation for your damages.

Call a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney For A Free Case Evaluation

If you have been injured, contact the Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by chatting with a representative on our website to schedule a free legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Your first step in securing compensation for your injuries should be consulting with an experienced Sacramento personal injury attorney.

Categories: Accident Attorney, Accident Injury, Attorney At Law, Car Accident

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Client Testimonials

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!