After a catastrophic injury, the days right after the incident can matter as much as the diagnosis.
Focus on documentation and safety first:
- Ask emergency responders or investigators whether there is a case number for the incident report.
- If police were called, request the report details and confirm how to obtain the finalized version.
- Write down what you remember while it’s fresh: traffic conditions, lighting, speed estimates, signage, and how the crash or fall happened.
- Keep every discharge instruction, imaging report, and follow-up appointment note in one place.
Avoid statements that can be used against you. Insurers may contact you quickly. A paralysis claim can be complex, and early statements can be misconstrued—especially when liability is disputed.


