Copy of Can Skipping Medical Appointments Hurt My Personal Injury Case?

Though most people dread going to the doctor, when you are the victim of an accident in which you have sustained injuries, ensuring you seek medical care is critical. However, it is necessary to note that after a personal injury, you must continue to follow up with your medical provider for several reasons. The following blog explores why seeking care is critical and the impact that skipping medical appointments can have on your case. You will also learn why working with our Irvine personal injury lawyers is in your best interest to fight for the compensation you deserve in these matters.

Why Is It Important to Seek Care Following an Accident?

When you are involved in an accident, it is imperative to understand that there are several considerations you must make in the immediate aftermath of these matters. Generally, one of the most important things you should do is seek immediate medical treatment for the injuries you have endured as a result of your accident.

Seeking immediate medical attention provides the best opportunity to receive the care and treatment you require to protect your health and well-being. Unfortunately, many assume they are fine after an accident as they feel okay in the immediate aftermath. However, due to the adrenaline in your body, any injuries you have sustained may be masked. As such, allowing medical professionals to examine you is critical.

Aside from ensuring that your health and well-being are prioritized, attending medical appointments following your accident allows you to document important evidence that can help your case. By continuing to follow up with your provider, they can document how your injuries are progressing and any complications you are experiencing as a result of the injuries you have endured.

Can Missing Medical Appointments Hurt the Outcome of My Case?

While attending doctor’s appointments can help ensure your records are accurate and treat any issues that may arise from the accident, choosing to skip upcoming appointments can actually have a negative impact on your case.

When you fail to attend follow-up appointments or heed your provider’s advice, the defense can claim that the injuries you endured in the collision were not that bad, as you did not require continued care. They may then fight to have the value of your claim reduced.

The defense may also claim that you are liable for the injuries you have suffered because you failed to mitigate damages by failing to follow up with your doctor or adhere to their medical advice. As such, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in this matter due to California’s comparative negligence statute.

Though going to the doctor can feel like a chore, and can even feel overwhelming at times, but ensuring you attend all necessary appointments and follow-up visits is critical to fighting for the best outcome in your personal injury case. If you have suffered as a result of another person’s negligent actions, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC. Our team understands how difficult these matters may be to handle on your own, which is why we are committed to providing you with the best possible legal representation. Contact us today to learn more.