Protect the original
Keep the original photo, video, message, letter, receipt, report, or device when possible. Work from a copy, and avoid cropping, annotating, or resaving the only version.
Record provenance
For each important item, note who created it, when it was received, where it came from, and whether anyone changed or copied it. This simple context can matter later.
Build a dated event log
Record medical visits, symptoms reported, work restrictions, expenses, insurer contacts, and requests for documents. Use records to correct memory rather than filling gaps with guesses.
Identify evidence controlled by others
Surveillance video, vehicle data, inspection logs, dispatch records, and business records may be held by someone else and may not be retained indefinitely. Ask a lawyer what should be requested or preserved.
Keep health care and expense records organized
Maintain a provider list, bills, insurance explanations, pharmacy receipts, mileage or transport costs, wage records, and written restrictions in date order.