What Should I Be Writing in My Personal Injury Journal?

Keeping a daily journal is one of the best ways to bolster your personal injury claim. In order to pursue the maximum payout possible, you’re going to have to convince the insurance adjuster that you incurred non-economic damages. Examples include loss of enjoyment in life, pain and suffering, and emotional distress, all of which you can write about in your journal.

But what, specifically, should you record in each entry? And how can you make the log as compelling as possible?

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of subjects you should address based on the value they’ll add to your damages claim:

1. Your Medical Care

It’s wise to log every doctor’s appointment in your journal. While your medical records will inevitably address each visit, writing about them in your own words will add some context to otherwise sparse documentation.

As soon as possible after each appointment—so the details are still fresh in your mind—make sure to record:

The reason for the appointment,
Any tests or procedures you underwent,
Any treatments you received,
How you felt after the appointment, and
Whether your recovery progressed at all as a result.

2. The Everyday Hurdles You Face

What kinds of tasks are you unable to perform because of your injuries? Have you had to rely on replacement services like meal preparation or housekeeping?

Over the course of your day, jot a quick note every time you face a challenge you wouldn’t have had to overcome had you not gotten hurt.

3. Social Engagements You’re Forced to Miss

Did you have to miss a friend’s wedding because of your injuries? Were you unable to attend your grandparents’ anniversary party or your family’s annual reunion because of limitations imposed by your condition?

Even skipping something as simple as a night out with friends is worth mentioning in your journal. Socializing has a major impact on your overall quality of life, so if your condition is forcing you to isolate, it will strengthen your claim for non-economic damages.

4. Your State of Mind & Physical Wellbeing

It’s okay to use your journal as a place to vent. Such entries can contribute to your claim by highlighting the mental anguish and emotional distress your injuries are imposing.

The same goes for your physical wellbeing. You should log all the aches and pains you suffer as a result of your condition. This includes any side effects you experience from the treatments you undergo.

Speak with a West Palm Beach Personal Injury Attorney

If you’re planning on filing a personal injury claim, you can count on Donaldson & Weston for strategic counsel at every stage of the proceedings. We’re proud to advocate for those who have been wronged by others, and in doing so, we’ve managed to secure more than $100 million in settlements and judgements. Call 561-299-3999 or complete the Contact Form on our website to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer in West Palm Beach.