To claim for future harm, you need expert projections grounded in current evidence. Secure a detailed doctor’s report outlining your long-term prognosis, expected future treatments, and any permanent limitations. A vocational expert’s assessment can document lost future earning capacity. Keep ongoing records of continued symptoms, therapy, and how the injury limits daily activities. This evidence moves the claim beyond past bills to justify compensation for what you will likely endure and lose going forward.

The agreement becomes a legally binding contract. The first step is typically for the defendant (or their insurer) to issue the settlement payment as specified. You must then formally dismiss any pending lawsuit according to the agreement’s terms, usually by filing a “dismissal with prejudice” in court. Both parties must also comply with all other obligations, like returning documents or keeping terms confidential. Keep a fully signed copy for your permanent records.

Keep everything. Save the original, full-resolution files from your device or camera. Do not rely on cloud storage or social media albums alone, as these often compress files. Create a dedicated folder on your computer and make backups. For organization, use clear filenames or a simple log (e.g., “2024-05-15_Scene_Staircase_Wide.jpg”). Provide all this to your attorney in its original format. Proper organization helps build a clear, chronological story of the incident and its aftermath.