Car accidents can result in life-altering injuries that can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life. In such cases, medical documentation plays a vital role in proving the extent of damage caused by the accident and obtaining a fair settlement from the insurance company. This article highlights the importance of medical documentation in car accident personal injury cases.
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What is Medical Documentation?
Medical documentation refers to a collection of records, including medical bills, prescriptions, doctor’s notes, and treatment summaries that comprehensively document a patient’s medical history. It is a crucial record that should be kept for every visit to a healthcare facility and should include details about the condition, examination, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care of the patient.
In a car accident personal injury case, medical documentation serves as evidence of a victim’s injuries, the extent of damages, and the treatment required to recover from the injuries.
Importance of Medical Documentation
Medical documentation is important for several reasons, some of which are:
Establishing the Existence and Extent of Injuries
Medical documentation serves as evidence of the existence of injuries, as it records the symptoms and diagnoses by medical professionals. This evidence is crucial because it substantiates a victim’s claim and provides a basis for awarding damages. The extent of the injuries is also documented, and the attending physician may provide a prognosis, indicating the recovery time and potential long-term disability.
Corroborating the Link Between the Accident and Injuries
A medical record that documents a victim’s condition before and after the car accident can serve as proof of the link between the accident and the victim’s injuries. This documentation helps your attorney establish that the accident led to the injury sustained and the severity of that injury.
Providing Evidence for Medical Expenses
Medical documentation is essential in establishing the cost of medical treatment and the impact it has on the victim’s financial stability. Medical bills, receipts, and treatment summaries provide indisputable evidence of the medical expenses incurred since the accident. This evidence can be used to calculate the amount of compensation needed to cover these expenses.
Helping to Build Credibility
Consistent medical documentation is critical in building a victim’s credibility. If there are gaps, inconsistencies, or discrepancies in the medical record, then an insurance company will question the validity of the injury and may lower the amount of compensation to be paid. However, if properly documented, the medical record will enhance the victim’s credibility, leading the insurance company to consider the true extent of the injuries and offer adequate compensation.
What to Document After a Car Accident
After a car accident, it is essential to seek medical attention regardless of whether you feel fine. This is because some injuries, such as concussions, may not present any symptoms immediately, but their severity may increase over time. During a visit to the hospital or physician, be sure to provide accurate information about the accident, including the time, date, and location, as well as the details surrounding the accident.
Provide a comprehensive description of your symptoms, even if they seem minor. Recording symptoms that seem unrelated to the accident is crucial to help your medical provider establish a clear timeline of the onset of symptoms and diagnose all possible injuries. Also, make sure to keep all medical documentation, including prescriptions, treatment summaries, and billing records.
Conclusion
Medical documentation is a critical component of every car accident personal injury case. It serves as proof of injuries sustained, the extent of damages, and the recovery process. Proper documentation establishes the validity of the injuries and helps victims receive fair compensation. After a car accident, it is essential to seek medical attention and record all symptoms and follow-up treatment. Consult with a personal injury attorney to receive proper guidance on how to approach your case.