A key aspect of most car accident cases in Albuquerque is the injuries suffered. Establishing the existence of injuries sustained, their connection to the crash, and their severity and impact are all important parts of a claim if a victim is seeking financial compensation for bodily injury. The victim’s medical records will play a crucial role in these cases.
An auto accident lawyer in Albuquerque, NM from The Fine Law Firm can assist you in gathering and presenting your medical records, expert testimony, and other key evidence to effectively establish the extent and impact of your injuries, ensuring that you receive the full financial compensation you deserve.
Medical Records Serve as Proof of Injury
It is critical to always get immediate medical care in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident. Prompt care can provide proof that the car accident, rather than a different incident or pre-existing condition, caused your injuries. The timing of your treatment can also show an insurance company that you did what you could to mitigate your damages by receiving professional care without delay.
Records from a New Mexico health care facility can demonstrate the type, severity and impact of the injury. Documents such as doctor’s reports, scans, x-rays and treatment plans can prove the extent of the injury and how it has affected – and will continue to affect – your life. This can help establish the value of your injury claim in economic as well as noneconomic damages (pain and suffering).
Car Accident Claims and Pre-Existing Injuries
Medical records can also be instrumental in an Albuquerque car accident case when it comes to pre-existing injuries. These are injuries or medical conditions that existed prior to the car crash. Pre-existing injuries may be relevant if they were exacerbated by the car accident or if an insurance company is attempting to argue that your injuries already existed and were not caused by the crash.
Your medical records can be used to support your claim if you need to prove that you had a pre-existing condition that was made worse by the collision. It is important to always disclose pre-existing injuries to an insurance company upfront. Attempting to conceal this information could be used against you. Records documenting that your injuries are new from the car accident can also be important for arguing against a pre-existing injury claim.
What Medical Records to Obtain as a Crash Victim
Well-documented injuries and health histories can make a key difference to a car accident case in Albuquerque. Your medical records can be used to establish the existence of your injuries, how they were caused, the cost of your treatments, your symptoms and pain levels, any ongoing complications or challenges, and how your injuries will affect your ability to earn a living in the future.
Do your best to clearly document your medical journey by getting proper treatment immediately and keeping copies of all relevant health care information. Contact the hospital or doctor’s office soon after your treatment to request copies of your records. Ask the physician for a note describing your injuries and diagnosis. Keep documents such as medication prescriptions and bills sent to you by your doctor.
Together, these records can create a comprehensive picture of your medical situation after the car accident.It is also important to know what not to give to an insurance provider in terms of your medical records. A car insurance company will often send a blanket Medical Release Authorization form for the claimant to sign in the early stages of an insurance claim. You should not sign this document, as it can give the insurer the right to access all of your medical history, not just records relevant to your current claim. Instead, work with a car accident lawyer to submit the correct documents and protect your rights.