Pain and suffering require credible, ongoing documentation. Effective methods include:
- Injury journal: daily entries describing pain level, activities you cannot do, sleep
disturbances, mood changes, medication effects, and physical limitations. Date every entry. - Photo and video evidence: photos of visible injuries, assistive devices, and limitations at
home (e.g., unable to climb stairs). Short videos showing limited range of motion are
persuasive. - Medical records and objective tests: imaging, range-of-motion tests, validated pain scales,
and clinician notes provide medical corroboration. - Witness statements: family members or coworkers can attest to changed behavior, inability
to perform tasks, or emotional impact. - Documentation of life impact: missed events, canceled trips, reduced social activities, and
work limitations show diminished quality of life. - Consistency: maintain consistent treatment and avoid gaps. Inconsistent care or prolonged
delays weakens claims. - Expert testimony: in severe cases, pain and suffering valuation benefits from vocational or
medical expert opinions describing future limitations and economic impacts.
Collecting detailed, dated evidence creates a compelling narrative that translates personal
losses into measurable damages during negotiations or at trial.
