The first 24–72 hours often determine whether your claim moves smoothly.
1) Protect evidence before it’s gone. In Amherst Town, footage may come from nearby businesses, residential doorbell cameras, campus-adjacent cameras, or traffic cameras. Ask for the crash report right away, photograph the scene (vehicles, road markings, conditions), and preserve any witness contact information.
2) Tell your doctor the full story—consistently. Insurers frequently look for gaps between the crash narrative and medical treatment. Make sure your records reflect the onset of symptoms, what activities you can’t do, and any changes over time.
3) Don’t rush statements to adjusters. If an insurer calls early, it may request a recorded statement or a “quick explanation.” In Massachusetts, a careless statement can create contradictions that take months to unwind.
4) Track work and mobility impacts. Amherst residents often juggle campus-area jobs, commuting schedules, and family responsibilities. Keep documentation of missed shifts, reduced duties, and transportation limitations—because those details become part of the economic and non-economic damages story.


