In South Dakota, if you have been injured by another person, you have the right to obtain compensation for your losses – including (1) past and future medical expenses; (2) past lost wages and future lost earnings; (3) past and future pain, suffering, and discomfort; (4) past and future loss of the use of your body; and (5) loss of services and companionship for your spouse and family.
In many cases, the better the records you keep - the better your chance of getting a fair settlement. Here are seven types of records that you need to keep after your South Dakota automobile accident:
1. Police reports
This information will be important when filing your insurance claims. Write down the investigating officer’s name in case your insurance agent or attorney needs to contact the officer.
2. Medical records and expenses
Start a system for recording your medical records and medical expenses that relate to the accident.
3. Time away from work
Get complete copies of your W-2 forms, payroll stubs, and income tax returns. If the accident caused you to miss work, record the date missed, what caused you to miss work, how you were feeling that day, and if you lost wages or benefits.
4. Journal of your recovery process
Keeping a journal of your experiences after the accident is very important. Describe any changes in your working life, your playing life, and your life as a spouse or parent.
5. Contacts with your health care providers and medical treatment
Keep a good record of the various physicians you visit for the treatment of your injuries. Also keep track of the nature and progress of your injuries, as well as any instructions your health care providers give you during each visit or treatment session.
6. Prescriptions and medications
Start a system for recording your prescriptions and medications that relate to the accident.
7. Travel expenses for medical appointments and therapy
Keeping a journal of your travel expenses for medical appointments and therapy sessions is also important.
Please remember that your attorney will also obtain these records as part of his representation. However, you have an advantage when your own records are complete.