Neck and back injuries can change everything in an instant. Whether it's a car crash, a slip and fall, or a workplace incident, the pain and limitations that follow are often overwhelming.
We’ve talked with clients in Utah County and Salt Lake County who have suffered spinal trauma, herniated discs, nerve damage, or chronic pain that affects every part of daily life. On top of that physical and emotional toll, there’s often financial strain, from mounting medical bills to lost wages.
If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s actions, you have every right to seek compensation. But your claim is only as strong as the evidence behind it. That’s why documenting your neck and back injuries thoroughly is one of the most important things you can do.
At Preston Law Firm in Alpine, Utah, we help people build solid personal injury cases by making sure their injuries are clearly documented and supported from day one. If you or someone you care about is struggling after an accident, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today to protect your rights and build the strongest case possible.
Why Proper Documentation Matters
It’s not enough to tell an insurance company or a court that your back hurts. To get fair compensation, we need to show that your injury is real, caused by the incident, and has had a clear impact on your life.
Poor documentation can lead to denied claims or lowball settlement offers. But thorough, consistent records make it easier to prove your case and fight for compensation.
Start With Immediate Medical Attention
If you haven’t seen a doctor yet, that should be your very first step. Even if the pain doesn’t seem severe at first, neck and back injuries often worsen over time. Waiting too long to seek treatment can also make it harder to link your injury to the accident.
Why prompt medical care is critical:
It creates an official record: A doctor’s visit documents the injury date and symptoms, connecting them to the incident.
It supports your credibility: Insurance adjusters often question claims if there’s a delay in treatment.
It helps catch hidden injuries: Some spinal injuries don’t show symptoms right away, but can be caught through exams or imaging.
From that first appointment on, your medical history becomes the backbone of your case. Be honest and clear about your pain, even if you’re not sure how serious it is.
Follow Through With All Treatments
Getting evaluated is just the start. It’s also important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. This shows that you’re taking your injury seriously and doing your part to recover.
Stick to your treatment plan by:
Going to every physical therapy session
Taking prescribed medications
Following activity restrictions or limitations
Attending follow-up exams or imaging tests
Missing appointments or ignoring medical advice can hurt your claim. It may give the impression that your injury isn’t as bad as you say.
Keep a Daily Pain and Recovery Journal
You’re the one who knows how your injury feels from day to day—and your own record can be one of the most valuable tools in your case.
What to include in your injury journal:
Daily pain levels: Rate your pain each day and describe how it feels (sharp, dull, shooting, etc.).
Activity limitations: Write down what you’re unable to do, such as driving, sleeping, working, or lifting.
Emotional impact: Describe how your injury is affecting your mood, sleep, relationships, or mental health.
Medical visits: Note appointments, treatments received, and any changes in diagnosis or care.
This journal not only helps you stay organized—it also creates a timeline that can support your testimony and medical records.
Gather Medical Records and Diagnostic Imaging
Medical records are the foundation of any personal injury case involving neck or back trauma. They provide the objective proof that connects your injury to the accident.
Important records to collect:
Doctor’s notes and summaries: These describe the nature of the injury and your reported symptoms.
X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans: Imaging helps show structural damage that’s hard to see otherwise.
Prescriptions: A record of medications, especially for pain or muscle spasms, demonstrates ongoing suffering.
Physical therapy notes: Therapists often document your mobility, progress, and limitations.
We help our clients gather and organize these records to make sure nothing is overlooked.
Get Statements From Medical Professionals
Sometimes medical records alone don’t tell the full story. A written statement from a doctor, physical therapist, or other healthcare provider can help explain how serious your injuries are—and how they affect your ability to work or live normally.
What medical statements can support:
The extent and duration of your injury
Your ability (or inability) to return to work
The likelihood of permanent damage or chronic pain
Expected recovery time or prognosis
These statements can carry a lot of weight with insurance adjusters or in court.
Document the Accident Itself
While your injury is the main focus, it’s still important to tie that injury back to the event that caused it. The more information we can gather about the accident itself, the stronger your case becomes.
How to document the accident clearly:
Photographs of the scene: Whether it’s a car crash or a fall, photos help show how the incident happened.
Incident or police reports: Official reports support your version of events.
Witness statements: Anyone who saw the accident or your immediate pain can provide helpful testimony.
Security or dashcam footage: If available, video evidence is one of the best ways to show what occurred.
Together, this evidence helps prove that your neck or back injury didn’t happen by chance—it was directly caused by someone else’s actions.
Keep Records of Lost Wages and Work Impact
Neck and back injuries often interfere with your ability to work—sometimes for weeks, months, or longer. Compensation for lost wages or earning potential is a major part of most personal injury claims, but only if those losses are documented.
What to keep for wage-related losses:
Pay stubs or income records: These show what you were earning before the injury.
Employer letter or HR statement: Your employer can confirm missed days, light-duty restrictions, or inability to return.
Tax returns (if self-employed): Independent contractors may need to show previous income patterns.
Even if you used sick time or vacation days, those count as economic losses. We make sure those details aren’t overlooked.
Track All Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Neck and back injuries often bring more than just hospital bills. From medical equipment to home care, these costs add up—and you ought to be reimbursed.
Common out-of-pocket expenses include:
Prescription and over-the-counter medications
Braces, supports, or mobility aids
Transportation to appointments
Home modifications (ramps, railings, etc.)
Childcare or housekeeping help during recovery
It’s a good idea to save receipts and keep a list of everything you’ve spent related to the injury. We’ll use that information to strengthen your claim.
Be Careful What You Say and Share
It’s important to be cautious after an injury, especially when it comes to insurance adjusters and social media. One wrong word or post can weaken your entire case.
Protect your case by avoiding these common mistakes:
Don’t downplay your pain: Even in casual conversation, comments like “I’m fine” can be used against you.
Avoid posting photos or updates: Insurance companies monitor social media for signs you’re more active than you claim.
Don’t give recorded statements without legal advice: Adjusters may twist your words or push you into harmful admissions.
We help our clients communicate carefully and avoid the traps that can derail a strong claim.
Contact a Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Neck and back injuries can affect your life in ways you never expected—but you don’t have to face this alone. The steps you take today will shape your recovery and your future. At Preston Law Firm, we’re proud to help people across Utah County and Salt Lake County hold others accountable when their carelessness causes pain.
If you're ready to build a strong case and take control of your recovery, we're ready to stand with you. Reach out to Preston Day today to schedule a free consultation.
