When you get hurt in a car wreck, the last thing on your mind is filing suit but if that wreck was caused by another driver you must take action. The longer you wait to speak to a personal injury lawyer the weaker your case might be and a weak case can mean less money for you and your family. While having a lawyer on your side to support you through the process is vital, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of documents connected to your wreck and its aftermath. Read on for some tips on getting organized after your wreck in a way that will promote your personal injury success.

Office supplies and how to use them

Most of what's needed to get yourself organized might already be present in your home. Take a look at the following list of needs and visit the store if needed.

1. Expandable file folder: The best choices are those that have handles and lots of accordion file openings.

2. Labels for the files

3. A small notebook or an app on your phone: Taking notes about your case is vital. Not only does a traumatic event like a car wreck cause you to have temporary memory problems but you may remember things that need doing at any time. Recording apps on smartphones work just as well but be sure to transcribe them or save in an organized manner.

A way to keep up with your mileage is needed, and this can be the same small notebook or an app made for that use. You are entitled to be reimbursed for all time spent driving to and from medical appointments, the drug store, taking care of your wrecked car and more, so jotting down the beginning and ending mileage is important. You are also entitled to be reimbursed for parking fees, toll costs and the use of public transportation or a taxi. Write it down and save all receipts.

4. A journal. Most personal injury lawyers now advise victims to keep up with their day-to-day struggles to regain normalcy after a car wreck by using a pain journal. Writing down your thoughts is not only therapeutic but your journal entries will serve at least two more needs:

• You can use the journal to refresh your memories of everything that happened after the wreck.
• You can use the journal to record the emotional effects of the wreck on your personal life and the lives of your family members. These notes may prove to be key when seeking pain and suffering damages.

Speak to one of the local car accident lawyers about any other organizational needs that apply to your case.