Introduction
The trauma of a car collision or accident is endured not just by the people involved, but by their lawyers too. A lawyer has to be adequately prepared to know what steps to take immediately after a client has been in a car accident because that is how a strong lawyer’s case is formed. This article serves as a comprehensive action plan that explains in detail how a person in a car collision or accident can proceed, specifically focusing on the importance of reviewing medical records in the legal work.
Understanding the Immediate Aftermath of a Car Accident
The Importance of Immediate Action
The first few seconds after an accident are very important. The evidence gathered can have a great bearing on any legal actions taken thereafter. In such situations, a lawyer must take his or her clients through the necessary processes so as to maintain necessary evidence and safeguarding the clients.
Key Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident
Make Safety Your Priority
• Assess yourself and others for injuries and summon an ambulance if needed.
• Get to a safer place when it is feasible.
Contact Law Enforcement
• Legal purposes will necessitate a police report, which is standard operating procedure.
• Ask all relevant witnesses for their accounts of the incident and all statements.
Documenting the Scene
• Interrogate witnesses and collect their contact details and ensure the well capture the vehicle damage and any injuries visible in pictures.
Exchanging Information
• Address and phone number alongside license plate numbers, insurance details all need to be obtained from all parties’ part of the incident.
Seeking Medical Attention
• Ensuring medical attention is sought is essential regardless of how minor injuries may look.
• Ensure to take note of all medical treatments and visits.
The Role of Medical Record Reviews in Legal Cases
What is a Medical Record Review?
A medical record review is a process where medical history and treatment records of a patient are reviewed in depth. This is one of the procedures that lawyers have to do to determine the severity of injuries in their clients and look for compensation on their behalf.
Why Medical Record Reviews Matter
- Establishing Causation: These records provide the ability to reconstruct the accident and demonstrate that the specific injuries were caused as a result of the specific injuries sustained.
- Quantifying Damages: Proper medical record retrieval sets the stage for proof of general and specific damages such as medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering.
- Strengthening Cases: Thorough reviews may find other factors of a claimant’s case, such as pre-existing conditions impacting the matter that together with the strategies will contribute to effective case construction.
Case Studies: The Impact of Medical Record Reviews
Case Study 1: Overview of the Case
Case Study 1: Overview of the Case: Overview: A client was knocked in a rear impact which caused having persistent pain and whiplash.
Challenges: The insurance company did not agree with the extent of the disfigurement claiming it to have been pre-existing condition.
Solutions: In the medical records, a thorough assessment has been made which shows no prior treatment for such symptoms thereby supporting the client’s claims.
Case Study 2: Overview of the Case
Overview: An accident that involved a motor vehicle and a pedestrian was reported in which the pedestrian sustained several fractures.
Challenges: The defense counsels insisted that the pedestrian contributed to the cause of the accident where he was involved making it complex in the process.
Solutions: The injuries sustained during the accident were treated promptly and were followed up with further rehabilitation that the patient required after the accident
Additional Considerations for Attorneys
Each State has its own Laws
Every jurisdiction has its own automobile accident laws and personal injury claims laws hence it is important in knowing these laws for efficient representation of the party.
Timeliness of Action is Critical
There exist a statute of limitation for every jurisdiction within which a person should lodge a claim and as such it is advisable to act with haste after an accident. A delay could limit a client’s chances of lodging a claim.
Build Relationships
Building networks with doctors could help in speeding up Medical record reviews which would be beneficial in strengthening the case.
Conclusion
After the occurrence of an automobile accident, there are a number of measures that can be taken by the sufferers and in most cases; lawyers are needed to help borrowers navigate through those measures. By knowing the measures that are supposed to be taken especially those that are critical such as medical record reviews, lawyers can assist their clients in getting the adequate compensation that they should get.
