1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately (This Could Make or Break Your Case)
When my cousin Jake slipped at a Walmart in Texas, he made the mistake of refusing an ambulance to "save money." Big mistake. Two days later, his back pain became unbearable, but the insurance company argued his injuries weren't from the fall since he delayed treatment.
What You Should Do:
- Got a serious injury? Call 911 — that police report can be a game-changer for your case.
- Visit an in-network provider if possible (but never delay care for insurance reasons)
- Get copies of ALL records - including nurse notes and MRI CDs (hospitals often "lose" them later)
Pro Tip: In states like Florida, you only have 14 days to seek initial treatment for PIP insurance claims!
2. Document Like You're Prepping for Court (Because You Might Be)
A client in Chicago lost her $50k settlement because she only took one blurry photo of her car accident. Don't let this be you.
What to Capture:
- Injuries over time (bruises change color - photograph daily)
- The scene (get store/street names in shots)
- Weather conditions (for slip-and-falls)
- License plates of all involved vehicles
Smart Move: Turn on geotagging in your phone camera - it proves location/date.
3. Write Everything Down (Yes, Even That)
Remember that scene in Better Call Saul where Jimmy reconstructs an accident from memory? Real life doesn't work that way.
Create a Timeline:
- Immediately after: Jot down key details (time, what you were wearing, witnesses)
- Next 72 hours: Record pain levels, missed work, even sleep disturbances
- Ongoing: Note how injuries affect daily life (e.g., "Can't lift my toddler")
Lawyer Trick: Email yourself notes - the timestamp becomes evidence.
4. Track Every Dollar (Including Tips to Uber Drivers)
Insurance adjusters love to argue "that expense wasn't necessary." Prove them wrong.
Save Receipts For:
- Medical bills (even ice packs from CVS)
- Rideshares to doctor appointments
- Home care (like that neck pillow from Amazon)
- Lost wages (get employer documentation)
Warning: Some states (like California) limit what you can claim - know your rights!
5. Work the System Like a Pro
Must-Get Documents:
- Police reports (request same day - some departments charge after 72 hrs)
- Surveillance footage (act FAST - most businesses delete after 30 days)
- Witness statements (get phone AND email - people move)
Genius Hack: For car accidents, use the CollisionMate app to automatically organize evidence.