Often someone has recently been injured will ask what they should do after having reported the accident to law enforcement and seeking initial medical attention.

It is typical to be overwhelmed and even confused as to what to do next in the days following an injury. Generally the first and most important item should be continuing with medical treatment and following the medical professionals device whether it be regarding medication, rest, further treatment, etc.

However, another important step to take is that of documenting. A basic notebook works well to keep track and organize. (If you would like a specific notebook for documenting mileage, out-of-pocket costs, and pain please feel free to contact my office and we would be happy to provide you one at no charge).

First, it is a good idea to start keeping track of all mileage that incurred traveling to and from medical appointments by listing the date of the appointment the starting point (typically home or place of employment), the location of the medical appointment, and the point of return (again, typically home or place of employment).

Second, it is an excellent idea to keep track of all out-of-pocket expenses for things such as prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and other items purchased because of the injury(ies).

Third, and probably most important document the injury and the effect is has on your day to day life. It is great to list an entry for every day that you encounter pain, nausea, headaches, sleep issues, stiffness, inability to participate in normal activities and other important notions that are associated with the injury(ies).

Clearly, the documentation above takes time and effort, which can be difficult after having sustained an injury, however, documentation can help track your injury, your improvement, can be useful for your medical provider, and can also help quantify and support a damages claim you or your attorney make submit to the insurance company or even a jury.

* Please note that this is general information only and not intended to be legal advice. If you have questions or need legal advice please setup an appointment with our attorney, or an attorney of your choosing.

Russell is an attorney with Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers. Russell represents injured clients in Hudson, New Richmond, River Falls, Prescott, Ellsworth, Roberts, Osceola, St. Croix Falls, Menomonie, Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls and surrounding areas of Wisconsin.

Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers has offices in Eau Claire, WI, Hudson, WI and Woodbury, MN and handles car accidents and other personal injury claims. For more information call 1-855-NICOLET or visit www.nicoletlaw.com.