After a car accident, the paperwork can feel endless. From police reports to medical bills, figuring out what matters most can be overwhelming.

At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we have spent more than 60 years helping injured Georgians prepare strong claims and move forward with confidence. Having the right documents on hand not only speeds up your case but also helps your lawyer fight for the compensation you deserve.

In this article, we outline the essential paperwork to gather after a crash so you can stay organized and take the next steps with less stress.

Why Documentation Matters in Your Car Accident Case

Good records do two things: they paint a clear picture of what you lost, and they give your car crash lawyer fuel for talks with the insurance carrier. Every receipt, report, and image shows how the collision affected your body, wallet, and daily life. With solid proof in hand, a lawyer can press adjusters for a fair payment and move forward with confidence if a lawsuit becomes the best path.

Essential Documents to Gather After a Car Accident

To help expedite your case, we encourage you to gather as many of these documents as possible. While our lawyers at Morain & Buckelew can certainly assist in obtaining necessary records, your proactive help can significantly move your claim forward.

Accident Report

The police report offers an outside view of the crash, noting drivers, vehicles, weather, and any tickets issued. In Georgia, you may request it online through the Georgia Department of Transportation portal or pick it up at the station named on the receipt the officer gave you.

Insurance Information

Your lawyer needs a copy of your auto policy showing liability and optional coverages, plus any letters or emails you exchanged with carriers. Drop in the claim number and phone line for each adjuster, too…fast contact often helps keep the file moving.

Medical Records and Bills

Doctors’ notes and itemized invoices show the type and cost of treatment. Be sure to include:

• Emergency room summaries
• Imaging reports such as X-rays and MRIs
• Prescription lists
• Physical therapy logs

These papers tie every dollar spent to the crash and help project future care needs.

Proof of Lost Income

Pay stubs, W-2 forms, and a brief letter from your boss outlining missed hours will show how the injury cut into your paycheck. If your doctor limits your duties, add that note to back up any claim for reduced earning power.

Photographic and Video Evidence

Images of smashed bumpers, skid marks, and bruises speak louder than words. Time-stamped phone clips or dashcam footage can also help settle disputes over who did what in the moments before impact.

Witness Statements

Neutral voices can tip the scale when drivers tell clashing stories. Collect each witness’s name, phone, and a short written or recorded account while memories are fresh.

Other Related Expenses

Save receipts for crutches, rental cars, rides to therapy, and even child-care costs linked to medical visits. Small out-of-pocket charges add up quickly.

Tickets Related to the Accident

If officers cited you or the other driver for speeding, texting, or reckless driving, copy the ticket front and back. The citation can support a negligence claim or show why fault points in one direction.

Quick Reference Table: What to Share and Why

Document	Main Purpose	Where to Find It
Police Report	Shows official facts and any citations	Local station or GDOT website
Medical Records	Links injuries to the collision	Hospitals, clinics, pharmacies
Insurance Policy	Outlines coverage and limits	Carrier portal or paper packet
Pay Stubs	Establishes lost wages	Employer payroll system
Photos & Video	Provide a visual story of damage	Phone gallery, dashcam card

Georgia’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims

In most car accident cases, Georgia gives you two years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. Miss that window, and the court will likely toss the claim. Gathering documents early helps your lawyer file on time and avoid a last-minute scramble.

Injured in a Crash? Let Morain & Buckelew, LLC, Review Your Case

With more than 65 years of combined experience, our team knows how to turn your paperwork into results. We handle car, truck, and motorcycle accident claims across Georgia with clear communication and sharp legal strategy. Call 404-448-3146 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your documents, fill in the gaps, and fight for the outcome you deserve while you focus on recovery.