The Role of Medical Records in Your Personal Injury Claim in California

A successful injury claim must demonstrate that one or more parties caused an injury, either through negligence or wrongful acts. X-rays, doctor’s notes, hospital bills, and other forms of documentation can prove critical for proving that an injury claim is legitimate. If you are seeking compensation for an injury, it is critical to understand the role of medical records in your personal injury claim in California.

Why Are Medical Records Important in an Injury Claim?

Medical records are a crucial component of any successful injury claim because insurance companies and the courts view them as objective evidence. For someone seeking compensation for a personal injury, doctor’s notes, admission records, and discharge papers can all serve as crucial documentation that can prove that the claimant suffered a significant injury.

When these records are combined with other documents showing the defendant’s negligence, the injured party can be positioned for a favorable outcome in their claim, resulting in fair compensation for the injury.

Common Types of Medical Records That Can Support Your Claim

Following a car collision in California, injured drivers and passengers may be transported to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, California Hospital Medical Center, or elsewhere in the state. Tragically, 4,061 people died in traffic-related crashes in 2023. Medical records can play a key role in documenting the nature and scope of the injury.

Emergency room records establish the timing of treatment and the types of injuries. Hospital admission notes and discharge summaries outline diagnoses, procedures, and length of stay. Around 15% of patients seen in California emergency departments are there for inpatient care.

Imaging results such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs help confirm fractures, head injuries, and internal trauma. Throughout treatment, physicians may take notes to track symptoms and detail treatment decisions. Those notes may also include details describing recovery over time.

Surgical reports often detail findings during operations and interventions. Physical therapy and rehabilitation records can be valuable in describing ongoing care needs. If prescription records are available, they can document pain management and the medications needed.

The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention Following an Injury

Falls are a common cause of personal injuries in California, with one in four Americans 65 and over falling every year. Whether you live in Venice, Silver Lake, or Echo Park, your top priority after a fall, assault, dog bite, or other cause of personal injury should be to seek medical treatment.

By being proactive and seeking medical attention, even if you are unsure whether your injury is severe, you can avoid potential complications and setbacks in your recovery. Seeking medical attention also starts an important paper trail that can be used to support your injury claim. Without medical records or signs that you sought treatment, it can be difficult to argue later on that you were severely injured. When in doubt, see your doctor for an examination.

Why You Should Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were injured and need help collecting the right medical records, your first step should be to hire a personal injury lawyer to manage your personal injury case. Injury lawyers bring extensive experience handling these matters and understand the burden of proof required under California personal injury laws.

An experienced personal injury attorney can have you sign a medical authorization form that allows them to request the needed documentation. Then, they can use those records to build a strong claim that leads to significant compensation for your injury.

FAQs

How Do You Retrieve Medical Records for a Personal Injury?

Due to HIPAA restrictions, you would have to provide written authorization for your attorney to request medical records. Depending on your preference, you could request the records or authorize your attorney to do so. An attorney can play a key role when it comes to letting you know which records to request. Then, they can examine the records to interpret the findings before using the documentation to build a strong claim.

Can Medical Records Be Used in an Injury Claim?

Yes, medical records can absolutely be used in an injury claim. In fact, they are among the most important forms of evidence in personal injury claims. Without clear medical evidence, it may be challenging for you to prove that you suffered measurable harm. The value of any settlement depends, in part, on your ability to show that the accident led to physical harm.

What Role Do Medical Records Play in Civil Court Cases?

Medical records are used to document injuries and support claims for damages in civil court cases. They help establish the presence, severity, timing, and duration of injuries, as well as the duration of treatment. Records can include emergency room notes, diagnostic imaging, physician evaluations, and treatment plans. These forms of documentation show how the injury occurred and whether it is consistent with the facts of the case.

Should I Release My Medical Records to the Insurance Company?

You should discuss any steps you take with your attorney. If your attorney advises you to release your medical records to the insurance company, then doing so may help facilitate the injury claims process. Your attorney asks to review the medical records beforehand. Insurance companies, including your own, may not have your interests at heart since these companies are in the business of making profits.

Contact a Trusted Personal Injury Law Firm for Guidance on How to Manage Medical Records

If you suffered a personal injury, your claim must be backed by evidence. Medical records provide a crucial form of evidence that can help you claim fair and full compensation for the harm you endured. With representation from Duque & Price, you can be compensated for lost wages, medical bills, and the pain and suffering you endured due to an injury.

Throughout your claim, our legal team can maintain close communication so you are never left in the dark about important matters. Over the past 18 years, we have brought over 2,000 cases to favorable conclusions. Let our legal team manage the complexities of your claim while you focus on resting and recovering. Contact our office today to learn how we can deliver the exceptional legal services and high-quality legal representation that your case deserves.

About The Author

Brent A. Duque

From humble beginnings and son of hard-working immigrant parents, Brent Duque was raised in La Puente, California. After graduating from West Covina High School and Mt. San Antonio College, Mr. Duque went on to graduate from Cal State University Fullerton with a Bachelors degree in Political Science. After obtaining his undergraduate degree, Mr. Duque did his graduate studies in Education and Public Administration at California Polytechnic University Pomona. After working for other firms, Mr. Duque knew that if he opened his own firm, he could provide more aggressive representation, better communication with clients, and secure larger settlements and verdicts for his clients. In 2006, he started his firm and has had a remarkable and successful career that he attributes to his firm’s aggressive and relentless pursuit of justice for his clients. As owner and managing attorney of the firm, Mr. Duque has fought for and secured millions of dollars for his clients.

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