St. Louis Accident Attorneys and Gathering Medical Records After Car Crash

There are several reasons why an attorney might want your medical records after a car crash, especially if you're considering pursuing a personal injury claim. Here's a breakdown of how they can be crucial to your case:

Building a Strong Case:

Evidence of Injuries: Medical records document the injuries you sustained in the car crash, including doctor's notes, diagnoses, test results, and treatment plans. This concrete evidence helps establish the nature and severity of your injuries.
Causation: Medical records can help demonstrate a connection between the car crash and your injuries. This is especially important if some time has passed between the accident and when you seek medical attention.
Treatment Costs: Records of medical bills, medication costs, and physical therapy expenses serve as proof of the financial burden you've incurred due to the crash. These are important factors when calculating compensation.
Impact on Daily Life: Medical records can document how your injuries have affected your daily life. This might include limitations on mobility, restrictions from work, or the need for assistance with daily activities. Such information can be used to support claims for pain and suffering.

Protecting Your Rights:

Pre-existing Conditions: Insurance companies might try to argue that your injuries stem from pre-existing conditions, not the car crash. Medical records can help establish your health status before the accident, refuting such claims.
Accurate Representation: Attorneys can't effectively represent you or negotiate a fair settlement without a complete picture of your medical situation. The records provide a comprehensive view of your injuries and treatment.

How Attorneys Handle Medical Records:

Obtaining Records with Authorization: In most cases, the attorney will require your written authorization to obtain your medical records. This protects your privacy.
Reviewing Records: Once obtained, the attorney will carefully review your medical records to understand the details of your injuries, treatment, and prognosis.
Building a Timeline: They will create a timeline of events, linking the car crash to your injuries and treatment.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Importance of Transparency: Providing complete and accurate medical information to your attorney is crucial. Withhold any information at your own peril, as it can weaken your case.
Privacy Concerns: Attorneys are bound by professional ethics to maintain the confidentiality of your medical information. They will only use the records for purposes related to your case.

If you're unsure about sharing your medical records with an attorney, don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your privacy concerns. A reputable attorney will prioritize transparency and ensure your medical information is handled confidentially.