If you’ve suffered an injury and are considering a claim, the type and extent of medical care you receive can impact the outcome of your settlement. Medical documentation, the consistency of your treatment, and even the length of recovery all factor into how an injury claim is assessed by insurance companies and courts. Our friends at The Law Offices of Clayborne, Loos & Sabers LLP discuss the important role that medical treatment plays in determining the value of an injury settlement.
Establishing The Extent Of Your Injuries
When you seek medical treatment promptly after an injury, you create an official record of the incident and the resulting harm. This documentation serves as key evidence in showing the severity and nature of your injuries. Insurance companies rely on these records to determine the legitimacy and scope of your claim. For example, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can help illustrate the seriousness of the injury, making it clear to all parties involved.
Consistent treatment is equally essential. If there are gaps in your medical care, insurers may question whether your injuries are as severe as claimed or if they are even related to the incident. Timely, consistent visits to healthcare providers demonstrate the need for ongoing care and validate the injury’s impact on your daily life.
Showing The Financial Impact Of Your Injury
Medical expenses are a significant factor in any injury settlement. The costs associated with doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any needed surgeries all contribute to the financial losses caused by the injury. By keeping thorough records of these expenses, you can present a clear picture of the financial impact on your life. This can also include less obvious costs, such as medical devices or travel expenses for frequent appointments.
An injury lawyer can help gather and organize these expenses to present a full account of the financial impact. Without accurate records, it’s easy to overlook some of these costs, which can reduce the overall settlement amount. The more comprehensive your documentation, the better the chance of a fair settlement.
Demonstrating Pain And Suffering
Injury settlements often go beyond covering just the physical and financial aspects; they can also include non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Medical treatment records play a role in establishing these intangible impacts. For instance, ongoing pain management treatments or physical therapy sessions can support claims of prolonged discomfort or physical limitations. These records help paint a full picture of how the injury has affected your quality of life.
A well-documented medical history showing continued care and efforts toward recovery can support claims for pain and suffering, as it provides evidence of the injury’s long-term impact. Courts and insurance companies consider how an injury has disrupted your routine, hobbies, and emotional well-being, which often ties back to the type and duration of medical care required.
Supporting Claims For Future Medical Costs
For some injuries, the need for medical care doesn’t end when a claim is filed. Certain conditions require long-term care, including surgeries, rehabilitation, or medication, and the expected future costs of this care are often included in a settlement. Medical reports from healthcare providers can outline anticipated treatments and their costs, giving a basis for requesting future medical expenses in your claim.
If your treatment plan indicates the likelihood of ongoing care, it’s crucial to present these anticipated needs when negotiating a settlement. An injury lawyer can help include future medical costs in the settlement demand, using your medical records to support these needs. This can prevent you from facing out-of-pocket expenses for ongoing treatment down the line.
Impact Of Following Medical Recommendations
Following your doctor’s recommendations after an injury is crucial, not only for your recovery but also for your claim. If you skip treatments, avoid prescribed medications, or ignore physical therapy, it could negatively affect your settlement. Insurance adjusters may argue that you’re not fully committed to recovery or that your injuries are not as severe as claimed. Following your treatment plan shows that you’re actively working to heal and are taking your injury seriously, which can strengthen your claim.
When Alternative Treatments Are Part Of Your Care
In some cases, alternative treatments such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, or massage therapy are used alongside traditional medicine to treat injuries. These treatments can be beneficial for recovery, and if they are medically recommended, they may be included in a settlement claim. It’s important to keep records of all treatments, including any complementary therapies, as this shows a well-rounded approach to addressing your injuries.
Each step of your treatment contributes to a stronger claim, especially when these treatments are documented and supported by healthcare providers. If you’re receiving alternative treatments, discuss them with your injury lawyer, who can advise on how best to incorporate them into your claim.
If you’ve been injured and are considering a claim, consulting an injury lawyer can help you understand the role of medical treatment in your case. Comprehensive medical records and consistent care can make a significant difference in the settlement process, and legal guidance can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for both current and future needs.