After a car crash, slip and fall at your workplace, or other personal injury accident in Boca Raton, you’ll be eligible to either file a lawsuit, an insurance claim, or both.
According to AllLaw, release of your medical records are necessary in personal injury cases so that:
- Both sides can assess both the physical injuries in question and the validity of the case
- Both parties have details on the nature and extent of your injuries
- It’s easier to calculate damages sustained in the accident
- A medical expert can analyze the records and determine the exact cause of the injuries in question.
Since you’re claiming compensation to cover your medical expenses and losses related to the accident, the other party will want to ensure that your records support your claim. Because you’re claiming that someone’s negligence caused you a certain kind of injury, the at-fault party is going to want to make sure the accident injuries weren’t aggravated by previous injuries.
If it’s discovered that you lied or withheld information about past injuries, your entire case could be in jeopardy.
Remember that while disclosing medical records might feel vulnerable, it will actually help you in the long run. Not only will your medical records provide evidence of why you should get compensation, but they might also provide further proof of just how much your life was affected by the accident.
How To Disclose Your Medical History
Disclosing your medical records is an easy step in your personal injury case. Normally, you will simply be asked to provide your name, social security number, date of birth, account number with your medical care provider, and your address. Sometimes, you’ll be requested to provide medical records from just a specific time period, and other times you’ll be asked for all the records in a care provider’s possession.
If you prefer, your attorney can request the records if you authorize this through a signed and dated document.
Occasionally, insurance claim adjusters will ask for medical records unrelated to the accident in an attempt to dig up dirt against you. If a request seems strange, talk to your attorney before complying.
It’s never a good idea to sign an authorization for an adjuster to obtain your records. Always obtain your own records or ask your attorney to do it.
What If You Refuse To Release Your Medical Records?
Refusing to disclose your medical history will only complicate your case, and could prevent you from receiving compensation altogether.
Make Sure You Get Justice
Even when you provide the correct documents, personal injury cases are stressful. Sometimes simple mistakes can lead to a loss of compensation. A Boca Raton personal injury attorney can make your life significantly easier! Jeffery A. Rosenberg has 25 years of experience ready to work in your favor. Contact him at (561) 508-8800 or online.
The Law Offices of Jeffrey A. Rosenberg
5255 North Federal Highway, 3rd Floor
Boca Raton, FL 33487
(561) 508-8800