A motor vehicle accident is a traumatic event, whether it is a minor or severe collision. Upon impact, the body’s rush of adrenaline triggers a natural “fight or flight” response, which can delay or mask the feeling of pain or injury. In the heat of the moment, judgment and rational decision-making can be impaired. Subsequently, a motor vehicle accident victim may refuse medical attention, even when injured, which can profoundly impact their health and legal claims.
Medical Records are Crucial Evidence
Medical documentation is essential when filing a personal injury claim to provide a link between your injuries and the accident. It establishes the extent of your injuries and the need for immediate treatment and future care, which helps to calculate your damages and justify the compensation you deserve.
What if You Refuse a Medical Evaluation?
To protect your legal rights for compensation, you must comply with Florida insurance carriers’ requirements. You have limited time to seek a medical evaluation and treatment. According to Florida Statute 627.736, you must seek a medical exam within 14 days after an accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. However, it is best to receive medical treatment as soon as possible after the accident. The effects of injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, can be delayed and may lead to serious health complications over time. Additionally, if you delay getting a medical evaluation and treatment, insurance companies can argue that the injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident.
Medical Documentation that is Crucial to Your Claim
- Medical Reports and Bills
- Prescription Costs
- Rehabilitation Records
- Home Renovation Costs
- Homecare Services Reports
What Else Can You Do to Support and Strengthen Your Claim?
Beyond seeking medical care and gathering the relevant documentation, you can strengthen your claim in other ways. Take photographs at the scene of the accident if possible, and get contact information from witnesses. It is helpful to start and maintain a journal as soon as possible after an accident. Record all the details you remember about the accident, including the date, time, weather conditions, and other hazards that may have contributed to the accident.
Keep an account of how the other involved parties react after the accident. Did anyone admit fault or offer to pay for damages? These statements are important for your claim, as what is said at the scene of an accident can be used when filing an insurance claim or presenting a case in court. Document the physical and emotional pain and suffering you experienced at the accident scene and every day since it occurred. Log your medical treatment journey and any help you have needed with activities of daily living or the care of your home or children.
Contact our Daytona Beach & Gainesville Personal Injury Attorneys
At the Ogle Law Firm, our motor vehicle accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. While many accident cases settle without going to trial, we are always prepared to present a compelling case to a judge and jury.
Attorney William Ogle is a National Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialist, distinguishing him as an expert in his field. He has the knowledge, skill, and experience you need to seek justice for you and your family. He strongly believes in holding those accountable for the pain and suffering caused by negligent or intentional acts of others.
Call for a Free Case Review
Contact the Ogle Law Firm today at our Daytona Beach and Gainesville offices by calling (386) 253-2500 to schedule a confidential appointment with our legal team. You will not pay any fees unless we win your case or secure a settlement. We fight for justice to make things right when you have been wronged.