Brampton personal injury lawyers deal with cases where people have been seriously injured in automobile accidents.

In the chaos, fear, anxiety and pain that follows such a mishap, it’s almost impossible for all those involved to keep their wits about them and avoid confusion and bewilderment. In the case of serious injuries, the victim is in great pain, sometimes unconscious and very little control of the happenings around them.

Unfortunately, this is also the time that’s of crucial importance when evidence is examined in a personal injury suit or filing a compensation claim.

Few of us know the importance of preserving medical records and fail to realize that it’s in our own best interests to maintain them safely.

Accidents are rarely “accidental.” They are most often caused by someone else’s fault or negligence and impose enormous physical, financial and emotional burdens on not just the victim but sometimes on the entire family.

Under Ontario laws, motor-vehicle accident victims are entitled to Statutory Benefits, regardless of fault, based on fulfillment of eligibility criteria. They’re also entitled to file a personal injury suit against the negligent, at-fault party, claiming compensation for, among other things:

• Loss of income/wages/earning-capacity
• Medical and rehabilitation expenses
• Pain and suffering

Achieving a successful outcome depends on providing proof of negligence, the extent and nature of injuries and their impact on the life of the victims and their families.

What Constitutes Medical Records

Medical records are maintained by physicians to document and  track the patient’s history, identify the issues, record the treatment/therapy given and track the progress of treatment. They are valuable records that indicate quality, continuity, assessment and evidence of care. They should be maintained in an organized manner, chronologically, legibly and systematically.

Apart from the doctor’s records, all receipts/bills for hospitalization, medications and transportation should be preserved.

Why Medical Records Are Important 

When accidents occur, it’s recommended that medical attention is immediately sought. Though you may feel that you’ve escaped unscathed or that your injuries are too minor to warrant a doctor’s visit, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor/family-physician immediately.

Some injuries may appear minimal initially, but could turn out to be more serious if left untreated, requiring intensive/expensive/long-drawn-out treatment later. In some cases, your insurer may dispute your claims and  refuse to fund the treatment. Well-organized, accurate and complete medical records can provide the basis for a robust claim. These records are confidential and your privacy needs to be protected by all those who access them.

Complete medical records also provide a detailed history of the tests, investigations, findings/diagnosis, therapy/treatment, medications, progress of treatment, rehabilitation suggestions etc.

• Claims-adjusters require medical records to examine the validity of your claim. In some cases, they may even ask for an independent medical examination or a second opinion.
• The defendant’s lawyers also require your medical records to verify your injuries/illnesses and their impact on your life etc.
• The courts also need medical records to determine the compensation amount, based on the nature/severity of your injuries.Preserve Your Medical Records Carefully: They Could Make All The Difference!

An experienced car accident lawyer can help you access your medical records to support your compensation claim.