Understanding Personal Injury in Connecticut
When you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, it is classified as a personal injury accident. In Connecticut, you have the legal right to seek compensation for injuries caused by another party’s negligence. To successfully file a claim, you must prove two key factors:
- The negligence of the at-fault party.
- The extent of your injuries and damages caused by the accident.
Getting a proper diagnosis is a crucial step in demonstrating the severity of your injuries and establishing a strong foundation for your personal injury claim.
How a Diagnosis Strengthens Your Personal Injury Claim
A medical diagnosis provides concrete evidence of your injury, which is essential when seeking compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. For example:
Imagine you were involved in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence. Shortly after the accident, you began experiencing severe headaches, dizziness, and confusion. You visited a doctor, described your symptoms, and underwent an evaluation. The doctor diagnosed you with a concussion.
In this scenario, the diagnosis creates official medical records that serve as evidence of your concussion. When you file a personal injury claim, these records demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the necessary treatment. Insurance companies are more likely to take your claim seriously when you provide clear medical documentation.
How a Diagnosis Impacts Your Settlement Value
Before receiving treatment for an injury, your doctor must first diagnose it. Insurance companies often seek ways to minimize payouts for injury claims, and they scrutinize medical expenses closely. Since medical bills typically make up the largest portion of personal injury claims, having a diagnosis is critical. Here’s why:
- Medical Evidence: A diagnosis provides documented proof of your injury, verified by a medical professional.
- Treatment Planning: A diagnosis allows your doctor to create a treatment plan, and you can use these records to support your injury claim.
All medical expenses you incur must directly result from your injury. By obtaining a diagnosis early, you can clearly demonstrate this connection and strengthen your case.
Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Diagnosis
It is crucial to select the right medical provider for your diagnosis and treatment. Ideally, the cost of your treatment should be higher than the cost of your diagnosis. If a doctor performs unnecessary or overly expensive diagnostic tests, insurance companies may argue that your expenses are inflated and offer a lower settlement.
Make sure to visit an established medical clinic or hospital with licensed physicians. Avoid alternative medicine providers if you are filing a personal injury claim, as their records may not carry the same weight in legal proceedings.
Don’t Delay Seeking Medical Attention
It is imperative to see a doctor as soon as possible after an injury accident. Delaying medical care can not only worsen your condition but also weaken your personal injury claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim if you wait too long to seek medical attention.
If you’re unsure about which doctor to visit or need guidance on the next steps after your accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help.
Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law for Help
At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in Connecticut due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait—contact us today.
Call us now at (475) 231-3274 for a free consultation. Let us help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to move forward. You can also reach out to us online for more information.