Protect the record
Evidence to Save After an Injury
30-second answer
Save the original records. Keep photos, reports, witness details, medical papers, bills, and insurance messages in one place. Do not edit or throw away evidence.
Legal information from Wildeboer Legal · Updated July 31, 2026
Do this now
- 1Create one paper folder and one digital folder for the incident.
- 2Save original photos and videos without cropping or adding text.
- 3Write down witness names, phone numbers, and what each person observed.
- 4Request medical visit summaries, imaging reports, bills, and insurance statements.
- 5Keep a dated list of missed work, expenses, calls, and letters.
Avoid this
- Do not repair, discard, or alter physical evidence before documenting it.
- Do not delete messages because they seem unhelpful.
- Do not write on original records.
Save these
- Incident and agency reports
- Original photos and videos
- Witness contact information
- Medical records, bills, and EOBs
- Receipts and travel costs
- Work restrictions and wage records
- Insurance letters, emails, and claim notes
Common questions
Should I save duplicates?
Keep one complete working copy and preserve originals. Back up digital files somewhere separate from your phone.
What is an EOB?
An explanation of benefits is the insurer’s statement showing how it processed a medical charge. It is not always a bill.
How long should I keep the file?
Do not discard records while claims, bills, liens, or legal questions remain unresolved. Ask for advice before destroying anything important.
Want more detail?
Read the full explanation
Medical Records After a California Injury: What to Request, Save, and OrganizeOfficial resources
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