It affects both. While your insurer handles the financial defense and payouts, a claim can still impact you personally. Your insurance premiums will likely increase for several years. If the claim exceeds your policy limits, you are personally liable for the difference, which could lead to wage garnishment or liens on your assets. A formal lawsuit becomes public record. In some professional contexts, a liability claim could affect your reputation or required licensing, even if you are not found at fault.

At a bare minimum, you must get their full legal name and a current phone number. An email address and physical address are highly valuable additions. If possible, also note their connection to the event (e.g., “was walking dog,“ “driver of blue car”). This core set of details allows an investigator or attorney to follow up for a full, formal statement while the event is still fresh in the witness’s mind.

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.