Overview
Car Accident could have far-reaching injuries which one may not be aware of. People may feel ‘fine’ without any trauma symptoms, but that does not eliminate the need for a medical check-up. Following a crash, a check-up needs to be performed due to many reasons like fraud law protection. This article discusses the purpose of medical exams after an injury ceases and the medical record examination, as well as how the medical records assist lawyers in the United States.
A Brief Discussion on Medical Exams after Vehicle Accidents
After suffering from a vehicle collision, it is normal to feel ‘ok’ and as a result the patient will forego the medical examination. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that some conditions do not show any signs at the first stages. Such a process can provide evidence required by a particular legal case.
Types of Injuries
Whiplash
The injury is very common and mostly occurs together with the up and downward shaking of the head in an accident. Following an accident, individuals could suffer from neck pain, firmness, and headaches which show after a certain period of time.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are defined as the damage of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other related structures. Such injuries can cause chronic pain and require further extensive rehabilitation.
Fractures
Fractures may result from vehicle collisions, sometimes without pain radiating immediately, such as with a wrist fracture that is typically concealed beneath swelling. Initial steps of diagnosis, however, are essential in order to avoid further complications.
The Role of Medical Records Review
A medical records review is defined as an analysis of a patient’s healthcare history and the accompanying record documentation. Such a process is essential for lawyers who have clients with personal injury claims, as it provides sufficient evidence of negligence or malpractice that can be used to substantiate claims in court.
• Evidence Gathering: Medical records may even provide counter evidence, especially in treatment and care cases where medical records have not been properly documented.
• Expert Testimony: Analysable medical records can be presented in court by expert witnesses and thus serve as valuable testimonies.
• Case Preparation: Altogether, acute medical record reviews enable attorneys to outline pertinent issues around which focus needs to be directed in the case.4. Current Trends and Statistics (Data from 2024)
Recent research emphasizes the necessity of immediate medical care following an automobile accident, mentioning an increase in reported car accident injuries. NHTSA stated that in the previous year, reported injuries from car accidents rose by 15%, further underscoring the importance of timely medical care.
The Importance of a Medical Examination
Why Medical Exams Are Important
• Concealed Injuries: Some injuries like concussions or internal ones may not show signs right away.
• Legal Precaution: A medical examination can help document legally significant information.
• Insurance: Medical documentation is often a prerequisite for claim processing.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Injured Whiplash
• Overview: A 30-year-old female involved in a rear-end collision felt fine immediately after the incident.
• Challeneges: Days later, severe headaches associated with neck pain developed.
• Resolution: Medical examination showed whiplash, also helped document her treatment through the medical records review.
• Settlement: Claim compensation for medical expenses and pain along with suffering was awarded.
Case Study 2: Fracture without Diagnosis
• Overview: A 45-year-old male was involved in a side-impact collision and did not feel any pain initially.
• Challenges: He uncovered a broken rib later on that needed to be managed medically.
• Solutions: Subsequent investigations of the medical records indicated there were some criteria evaluations that were not taken during the initial assessments.
• Compensations: His claims concerning the expenses of treatment and earnings not received due to work absence were compensated.
Conclusion
To summarize, regardless of whether someone considers themselves uninjured, it is important to obtain a medical examination following a car accident. A comprehensive understanding of the potential injuries, and their effect on the legal case as well as reviewing the medical documentation can help alter the outcome. In case you, or any of your acquaintances have experienced an accident, encourage them to receive an immediate medical evaluation and if applicable, the medical documentation scrutiny to strengthen their legal argument.
