When pursuing a personal injury claim, medical records are the foundation of your case. Without them, proving the severity, cause, and long-term impact of your injuries becomes nearly impossible.
Why Medical Records Matter:
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They document your injuries, treatments, and progress
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Show a timeline of your pain and recovery
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Establish a clear connection between the accident and the injury
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Serve as evidence during negotiations or in court
What Should Be Included:
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Emergency room and ambulance reports
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X-rays, MRIs, CT scans
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Doctor's diagnoses and treatment plans
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Physical therapy notes
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Prescriptions and medication logs
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Psychological evaluations (if applicable)
How Insurance Companies Use Them:
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To determine severity and necessity of treatment
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To calculate settlement offers
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To find gaps in treatment that may weaken your claim
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Not following up with medical professionals
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Ignoring recommended treatments
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Gaps in care, which can suggest the injury wasn’t serious
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Not reporting emotional distress or mental health issues
Tip: Keep a personal copy of all records. If possible, maintain a treatment journal to supplement formal documentation.
