If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be in a legal fight with your insurance provider over your compensation. However, with properly documented evidence, you can force an insurance company to comply and pay what they owe.
A pain journal is essential evidence that can help win your case. Here’s how to keep a pain journal.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO KEEP A PAIN JOURNAL
Your insurance provider may argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you say. They may also disagree with your version of how the accident happened. That’s why a pain journal is crucial. A pain journal is a personal record of your pain and suffering in the days, weeks and months after your injury. It’s valid evidence you can use if your case goes to trial. It could also convince an insurance company to settle out of court.
WHEN YOU SHOULD START YOUR PAIN JOURNAL
Document your suffering as you experience it because, over time, memories fade and details become fuzzy. You should begin writing down facts as soon as possible after the accident.
TYPES OF PAIN AND HOW TO DESCRIBE THEM
When documenting pain, there are specific details you should include:
Symptoms like pain, sleeplessness, anxiety, stiffness and loss of mobility. Include details like a sharp pain in your neck.
The severity of your pain, using a scale between one and 10. • Dates and timing of symptoms. Include details about the duration and frequency.
Activities affected, such as driving, working, lifting children or anything requiring concentration.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION TO INCLUDE IN A PAIN JOURNAL
Your pain journal isn’t just to document physical symptoms. You should also write down your version of how the accident occurred. Include details of the crash, including road and weather conditions, the other driver’s mental state and whether they were wearing a seat belt. Also include any conversations with witnesses, other drivers and police officers.
Moreover, detail your medical appointments, including the name and contact information of the doctors, medications prescribed and what was discussed. If you’re receiving counselling and therapy, you should also share details of those sessions. The information in your journal will be seen only by those involved in your case.
CONSULT FEIFEL GUALAZZI’S PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS IN SAULT STE. MARIE
The team at Feifel Gualazzi Personal Injury Law Firm specializes in personal injury claims and has helped countless clients build solid cases and receive fair compensation. You don’t pay a cent unless you receive a settlement or win your case in court. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.