After a pinning or compression injury, the first priority is always safety and medical care. But right behind that—especially in the first 48 hours—are the actions that protect your claim.
**Do these early: **
- Get evaluated and ask for documentation. Follow-ups matter in crush cases because complications can show up after the initial swelling or pain.
- Request the incident report number (or a copy) from your employer or property manager.
- Write down the sequence while it’s fresh—what you were doing, what equipment was involved, where guards or barriers were (or weren’t), and who was present.
- Take photos if you can do so safely (scene conditions, equipment position, any damaged safety components).
Avoid these common traps:
- Don’t give a recorded statement “just to be helpful” before you understand how Tennessee insurers may use wording.
- Don’t sign paperwork you don’t understand—especially releases or forms that limit future recovery.
If you’re worried about what to say or what to request, a Portland crush injury lawyer can help you steer communications the right way.


