After a serious accident, medical care, claim calls, vehicle repairs and missed work may all demand attention at once. A simple file makes it easier to track what happened, what costs arose and how the collision affected daily life.
As you begin sorting paperwork, start with these key items:
1. Official crash report and insurer details
Save the Washington State Patrol collision report or any local police version. State law may require this filing when an accident causes injury, death or at least $1,000 in damage to a vehicle or other property. In many cases, each driver must submit the report within four days unless an officer responds and indicates they will submit the official report.
2. Photos and scene details
Store photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, debris, skid marks and injuries you can see, such as bruising or swelling. Save witness names, contact information and details about the time, location and weather.
3. Medical records and bills
Gather ambulance, emergency room, hospital, imaging, surgery consultation and follow-up documents. Keep bills, receipts, prescription records and documents showing travel or medical supply costs.
4. Daily journal of symptoms and limitations
Write brief daily entries about pain levels, sleep problems, missed activities, mobility limits or tasks that require assistance. A simple calendar or phone app may show how the injury affects your routine between medical appointments.
5. Work and income records
Keep pay stubs, employer notes, missed-shift records or business records showing lost income. If the injury affects future work, these documents may show changes in earning capacity.
6. Insurance letters and expense receipts
Save letters, emails, claim numbers and call summaries from the insurer. Store receipts for rental cars, rides, parking, home help or other costs tied to the accident.
Why your timeline matters after a serious crash
A claim may take longer than the first few insurance calls suggest. Washington generally gives you three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but settlement discussions can begin long before your treatment is complete. Knowing the timeline can help you avoid rushing decisions before you understand the full impact of the crash.