Kansas City, MO personal injury attorney Michael Waddell talks about what you should do after an accident or injury. He indicates that many clients ask what steps they should take immediately following an accident or injury. He emphasizes that thorough documentation of the circumstances is critical. In the case of an automobile accident, for example, he advises photographing the scene, including the positions of the vehicles, property damage, and surrounding conditions.

He also recommends identifying any witnesses, collecting their names and contact information, and ensuring that their perspectives on what occurred can be documented for later use.

Equally important, he stresses documenting personal injuries throughout the recovery process. This includes taking photographs of wounds, cuts, scratches, or broken bones, not just immediately after the accident but as they heal over time. He encourages clients to prepare impact statements at various stages—from initial injury through recovery or ongoing treatment—to clearly convey how the injuries affect their daily lives.

He highlights that these statements should capture the effect on ordinary activities, such as personal care, household chores, errands, physical activities, family care, and interactions with others. By maintaining detailed records and observations, he ensures that the full impact of the accident is communicated effectively for legal purposes.