The Importance of Medical Documentation in Car Accident Injury Claims: Building a Strong Case

Having proof to back up an argument is always effective, but it is especially important to build a strong personal injury claim following a car accident.

The more information you can provide to an insurance company or opposing counsel before the case reaches a jury, the more clarity you provide on the strength of your case. This can lead to avoiding litigation entirely. If your case does go to trial, the documentation you provide will make a significant impact on the jury hearing the case.

There are several ways that medical documentation can strengthen a car injury person injury claim. These include:

• Establishing how badly you were injured. Your medical records will contain detailed information about any injuries you sustained. From diagnostic evidence including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to reports filed by first responders, emergency room personnel, and other healthcare professionals who provided care will be invaluable in establishing and substantiating the severity of the harm that you suffered.
• Documentation will establish causation between the automobile accident and your injury. This documentation will include police reports and witness statements about the car accident, photos of the scene, and treatment that occurred immediately afterward.
• Additional medical documents regarding any surgeries, ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and pain management will make clear that the accident has had a sustained impact on your life. Be sure to provide your attorney with receipts for medication, medical devices, and any appointments you’ve had since the accident occurred to indicate the need for continued treatment as well as any pain and suffering you’ve endured. In addition, it is essential to document evidence of wages lost due to injuries and medical-related absences.

Testimony from physicians who treated you and other medical experts who can provide information about the severity of the injuries, the treatment required, and the resulting pain or disability will add credibility to your claim. All of this type of evidence is considered objective and counters accusations of exaggerating pain or impact of the injury.

The more hard evidence and documentation you can provide in support of your personal injury claim, the more likely it is that you will be able to satisfy an insurance company’s underwriters or convince opposing counsel that their client will benefit from offering a settlement than risking a sympathetic jury awarding a larger damages award.

For assistance in evaluating your personal injury claim following a car accident, contact our experienced attorneys today to set up an appointment.