Auto accidents can cause a number of injuries. Some are minor, such as scratches and bruises. Others are more serious, such as a concussion, broken bones, or herniated spinal discs. In order to receive financial compensation for your injuries, it's important to have proof that your injuries are serious. Your car accident lawyer can help you gather any relevant information, but some things must be done on your own. Here are four ways you can demonstrate that you deserve financial compensation for your auto accident injuries. 

1) Obtain medical records from doctors and hospitals

You can't just go to court and tell the judge that your head hurts or your back is sore. Detailed examination and diagnosis reports serve as evidence of the severity of the injury and its effects on your daily life. These documents may include digital imaging, such as CT scans or MRIs, blood tests, medication records, or medical exam notes. Your auto accident attorney can help you gather these records from any doctors or hospitals that treated you for your injuries.

2) Follow your recommended treatment plan

If you ignore your doctors' recommendations for post-accident care, don't expect a judge to be sympathetic. Judges often view medical providers as experts, so they will likely value their advice over yours. If your doctor recommends physical therapy, follow through and let your car accident lawyer know. Don't skip treatments and don't cut corners — the court needs to see that you are taking your recovery seriously.

Sometimes a doctor may ignore some of your symptoms. If you feel like this is happening, ask an auto accident lawyer for guidance. Your attorney may recommend visiting another provider for a second opinion or asking for a referral to a specialist, such as a post-concussion care clinic or a pain management clinic.

3) Be careful what you post online

It's not uncommon for opposing counsel or your auto insurance company to monitor your online activities after an accident. If you say you have debilitating back pain but social media posts show that you're training for a marathon or dancing with friends, that can hurt your chances of getting a fair settlement. A car injury attorney can help plead your case, but you should still monitor what you say online.

4) Keep records of lost wages and out-of-pocket expenses

In many auto accident cases, the at-fault party's insurance company will try to minimize their financial responsibility for your injuries. You must provide proof that you have suffered financial losses due to your injuries from the accident. Keep track of all your out-of-pocket expenses related to your accident, such as medical bills, medication costs, transportation costs for attending doctor visits, and missed wages due to your injuries. Your car accident lawyer can help with this and the other matters listed above, so don't hesitate to request legal representation.