At the scene
If it is safe, preserve photographs, names, insurance information, the police or incident number, and the location. Get urgent help for injuries. Do not delay emergency care to collect evidence.
At each appointment
Confirm that the chart reflects the mechanism of injury, symptom onset, affected body areas, prior history, examination findings, restrictions, and follow-up plan. Request visit summaries and imaging reports for your file.
Between appointments
Use dated notes to record sleep interruption, medication changes, missed work, help needed at home, and concrete activity limits. Save receipts and correspondence. Do not edit old entries after the fact; add a new dated correction.
Call 911 or seek urgent care for severe or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, confusion, weakness, loss of sensation, or any emergency. This site cannot assess your condition.