Use this checklist to gather the evidence that protects the value of your car accident claim. Print it, or work through it inside the free Case Builder, which keeps all of it organized in one place. You will not have every item, and that is fine. Collect what you can, as early as you can, and add the rest over time. For the reasoning behind each item, see how to build your auto accident case.
At or near the scene
- Photos of both vehicles and all damage, from multiple angles
- Photos of the vehicles’ final positions before they are moved
- Photos of the wider location, intersection, signs, and signals
- Photos of road and weather conditions, skid marks, and debris
- The other driver’s name, license, insurance, and license plate
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- The responding officer’s name and the report or incident number
Medical records
- Emergency room or urgent care records from the day of the accident
- Every diagnosis and treatment note from each provider
- Imaging results (X-ray, MRI, CT) and the radiology reports
- Physical therapy and specialist records
- Prescriptions and a list of medications
- Itemized medical bills and statements from every provider
Official documents
- The official police or crash report
- Your insurance policy and declarations page
- All correspondence with both insurance companies
- Any settlement offer you have received, in writing
Witnesses and statements
- Each witness’s name, phone number, and email
- A written note of what each witness saw, dated as soon as possible
- Your own written account of the accident, written while fresh
Financial losses
- Proof of lost income (pay stubs or an employer letter)
- A record of days and hours missed from work
- Property damage and vehicle repair estimates
- Receipts for prescriptions, equipment, and out-of-pocket costs
- Mileage to and from medical appointments
Ongoing record
- A dated recovery journal with pain levels and limitations
- Notes on how the injury affects work, sleep, and daily life
- Follow-up photos of injuries as they heal
Tip: print this page or save it as a PDF
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important evidence in a car accident claim?
There is no single most important item, but the police report, medical records that begin promptly after the accident, and dated photos of the scene and your injuries tend to carry the most weight. Together they establish what happened, that you were injured, and the extent of the harm. Proof of lost income and a record of your expenses then quantify your losses.
How long should I keep these records?
Keep everything until your claim is fully resolved, and ideally for several years afterward. Claims can take months or years to settle, and you may need documentation again if a dispute arises. Storing your file in one organized place means nothing is lost along the way.
What if I am missing some of these items?
Gather what you can. A claim does not require every item on this list, and some, such as a recovery journal, you can start today even if you did not from the beginning. Build your file with what you have, then add to it as records arrive and your treatment continues.