Car accidents are never pleasant and can lead to ample emotional, physical, and financial stress. According to ‘IIHS,’ there were about 42,514 deaths in the United States in 2022 from car accidents. It means there were 12.8 deaths for every 100,000 people. Also, every fatality rate per 100,000 people varied from 4.8 in Rhode Island and the District of Columbia to 23.9 in Mississippi.
Therefore, quick action after an automobile accident is needed to secure your rights and obtain fair compensation. Next, try to gather evidence that will help establish liability and provide a clear account of what occurred. Additionally, medical documentation plays a vital role in personal injury cases. It showcases data on the injury severity, medical treatment, and the associated costs.
Detailed evidence and records can make your case stronger. Here, we will discuss the importance of both processes after a car crash.
How to Ensure Correct Medical Documentation?
For this, you need to ask for immediate medical attention, even if your injuries are minimal. Timely treatment after a crash is essential and offers you a detailed record of injuries. Therefore, you should document medical treatments, visits, and diagnoses to create a history of your condition.
It is also essential to attend your medical follow-up appointments to know how much you have recovered. It also throws light on any lingering problems. You must acquire copies of crucial documents, such as doctor’s notes, test results, and medical bills. All these help to strengthen your case and make sure you receive your compensation on time.
However, there are some mistakes that you must avoid, such as:
- Not seeking immediate medical aid after a car crash can undermine the severity of your injuries.
- Not disclosing prior conditions or injuries can make it difficult to prove causation.
- Incorrect and incomplete medical records might not reflect your condition completely.
- Not following the treatment plans might act against you by questioning your claim’s credibility.
The settlement amount varies based on the extent of the injury. A Forbes article mentioned that a Martindale-Nolo survey stated the average settlement payout to be $23,000. Another survey by the Insurance Information Institute stated the average payout amount to be $20,235.
Often, plaintiffs lose out on their money because they commit these mistakes. Hence, it’s essential to be mindful of and avoid them. According to the Atlanta Personal Injury Law Firm, it is necessary to consult an expert lawyer specializing in car accident cases. They can give plaintiffs the apt guidance to navigate through the legal procedures.
Gathering More Evidence Beyond Medical Records
You need to collect extra evidence other than medical records for a solid car accident claim. For this, you have to take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries. It provides your lawyer with a visual description of all the damages your car has undergone. The pictures are a testimony of the severity of your bruises and injuries.
Additionally, you should also want to get a copy of the police report. It helps to document the crash and determine the fault. Gather witness statements along with their contact details to corroborate your accident account. Also, repair estimates and car damage evaluations are crucial for detailing the financial impact of the accident.
If possible, you may want to source surveillance footage that can provide crucial visual evidence of the accident. It will support your case by providing a complete picture of the accident and allow the lawyer to determine liability.
How Do Insurance Companies Utilize Documentation?
Insurance companies refer to medical documentation to analyze the extent of your wounds. It helps them evaluate your compensation for the claim. However, they might use tactics to devalue your claims. For instance, they might question the relevance of treatments. Also, they might not believe that there is a link between the accident and your injuries.
It is necessary to counteract these tactics. Although it’s your lawyer who will take charge of this, you need to provide them with the correct documentation.
Legal Considerations in Using Medical Documentation
In June 2023, a crash in Atlanta led to one fatality and two hospitalizations. It took place at the intersection of Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard NW and North Avenue NW. A Ford Edge, making a turn, was struck by a Volkswagen Jetta. The Ford’s passenger died at the accident scene.
In such cases, an Atlanta car accident lawyer will rely on medical documentation to build a strong case. This proof is essential for negotiating settlements and proving the extent of injuries and treatment. Correct medical reports support claims for both economic and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. It also complies with HIPAA regulations to secure personal health data while navigating legal proceedings.
FAQs
What documentation should be completed after a vehicle crash?
Documentation plays an essential role in a car crash case. Personal injury cases are comprised of police reports, medical records, accident photographs, and witness statements. It is also wise to retain receipts or bank statements to verify any extra expenses related to the accident. It usually includes travel costs, medical bills, and legal fees.
What is the rule of physical evidence?
Before any physical evidence can be used in criminal proceedings, it must be validated. This evidence decides the settlement payout. This process assures that the proof is authentic and relevant and has been properly handled by authorities. Various methods are employed to verify the authenticity of evidence in a case.
How can you document an accident?
A police report is a key type of official record for car accidents. Since the police do not have a stake in determining fault, their report provides an impartial account of the incident. This unbiased documentation is precious as evidence in insurance claims or personal injury cases.
Therefore, after a vehicle accident, thorough medical documentation and evidence gathering are crucial for a successful claim. This proves to be useful when you decide to file a car accident injury lawsuit and work with a lawyer. Your lawyer will make use of the necessary evidence and documentation to develop a strong case. That can also facilitate quick settlements that you can use to cover your losses.
No Comment! Be the first one.