If you’ve been injured in an accident, your recovery likely involves more than just healing physically. It also includes navigating the legal and financial aftermath. A key part of that process is your medical records. These documents play a critical role in proving the severity of your injuries and linking them directly to the accident that caused them.
At VOZH Law, we’ve helped countless injury victims across New Mexico understand how medical records impact their injury settlement. Below, we break down why these records matter, what they should include, and how to use them effectively when seeking compensation.
In a personal injury case, you carry the burden of proving that someone else’s negligence caused you harm. Medical records provide the foundation for doing that. They serve as documentation of:
Without these records, insurance companies may claim that your injuries aren’t as serious as you say, or that they weren’t caused by the accident at all.
Tip: Always seek medical care immediately after an accident, even if symptoms seem minor. Delayed treatment can weaken your case.
To effectively support your injury claim, your medical records should be comprehensive and consistent. A strong set of records typically includes:
Consistency across documents also matters. If your initial report says you had back pain, but later records omit it or mention a different issue entirely, the insurance company may use that inconsistency to reduce or deny your claim.
One of the biggest challenges in jury claims is proving causation, that is, showing that the accident directly caused your injuries. Medical records help establish this link.
For example, if you visited the ER right after a car accident and were diagnosed with a concussion, that documentation supports your claim that the crash caused the injury. Similarly, records that show ongoing pain, physical therapy, or surgical treatment all help illustrate the severity and impact of your injuries.
According to the American Bar Association, complete and well-organized medical records are often the most persuasive evidence in injury cases.
Gaps in treatment, such as waiting weeks to see a doctor or missing follow-up appointments, can raise red flags. Insurance companies may argue that you weren’t seriously injured or that something else caused your condition.
To protect your claim:
Need help managing medical records during your claim? Our team at VOZH Law works closely with clients to gather, organize, and present medical evidence in a way that strengthens your case.
In complex cases, we may also bring in medical experts who can interpret your records, explain long-term effects, or testify to the seriousness of your condition. These expert opinions can help increase the value of your settlement, especially when you’re facing lasting limitations or disability.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, your priority is your health, but it’s also important to start building a solid legal case as soon as possible. That starts with medical documentation and continues with experienced legal representation.
At VOZH Law, we help injury victims throughout New Mexico collect the right records, avoid insurance pitfalls, and pursue fair compensation for everything they’ve lost from medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term pain.
Still unsure how medical records may impact your injury settlement? Let us help. We offer free consultation and take the time to understand every detail of your case.
Contact VOZH Law today to get answers and take the next step with confidence.
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