Before filing a car accident claim, it is necessary to have your medical records ready. They could come in handy during the settlement process and significantly increase the chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Medical records include reports from the emergency department that attended to you after the crash, results from diagnostic tests such as X-rays and CT scans, and notes from physical or occupational therapists, among others. All these can significantly help your claim, as explained below.
Were your injuries pre-existing or did they arise from the crash? Are they as serious as you claim? These are some of the questions you may have to answer after filing a car accident claim, and medical records can help provide conclusive answers.
In addition, medical evidence can help add weight or lend credence to some of the damages you claim. For instance, you may need to prove how your injuries prevent you from working to recover lost wages or non-economic damages. Without the necessary medical evidence, it may not be easy to show how your injuries affect your ability to work or their effects on your quality of life.
You bear the burden of proof in a car accident claim. You must show how the other party was negligent and the damages you suffered due to their negligence to recover compensation. Medical records are pertinent to your claim, but you need more than that to successfully argue your case.
Therefore, it is best to have experienced counsel on what you need when filing a claim, how everything works and your legal rights. The proper legal representation will help protect your interests as you navigate the claims process.