Importance of Medical Records in Florida Personal Injury Cases
Usually, when a client has their first meeting with their personal injury attorney, the first question they ask is, “how much will I get from my claim?” Before answering this question, your attorney is most likely going to ask you about the medical cost you have incurred so far and whether or not you have medical records to prove the extent of your injuries and a connection between the accident and your injuries. As much as medical expenses are not the only damages victims are entitled to, these expenses make up the foundation for ascertaining most personal injury cases’ estimated value. Therefore, medical records are quite crucial in personal injury cases.
Florida Statute 627.736, states that after a motor vehicle accident, an individual needs to seek medical treatment within 14 days to qualify to receive medical benefits and other damages from a PIP coverage. Apart from seeking treatment right away so you can receive compensation from a PIP coverage, you need to seek immediate medical treatment to ensure you can receive compensation from an at-fault party if you file a personal injury claim. Failure to seek medical treatment as soon as possible might make you miss out on the chance to receive compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
Importance of Medical Records in Florida Personal Injury Cases
Medical records are crucial in personal injury cases for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the importance of medical records in personal injury cases.
- With enough medical records, your case can get the attention it deserves.
- Medical records are among the pieces of evidence that can help you prove the link between an accident and your injuries. Establishing this is vital for your case if you are to receive compensation. Therefore, when you seek medical attention, ensure that your health care provider gives you medical records to prove the link between your injuries and the accident.
- Medical records provide a clear image of the nature and extent of your injuries. The bills that show the amount spent on surgeries, medication, or even rehabilitation can help you prove the extent of your injuries.
- These records make it hard for insurance adjusters to claim that you did not sustain severe injuries after the accident.
- Medical records can also help you fight the defense team when they ask you to attend a compulsory medical examination. With your records, your attorney can help you convince the court that your injury is severe and was caused by the accident, facts that the defense team might be trying to disprove through the CME.
Contact Our Experienced Miami Personal Injury Lawyers
Suppose you were involved in a Florida accident and have extensive medical bills because you needed medication, surgery, or rehabilitation after the accident. In that case, you deserve to receive fair compensation. As long as you have accurate and enough medical records, our experienced Miami personal injury lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve for medical expenses and other damages. You can trust our highly qualified team that works diligently to see you through the entire process with little to no hitches. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Jacksonville, Ocala, Daytona Beach, Tampa, Bradenton, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach areas.
Resource:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.736.html