What to Do if a Car Crash Aggravated a Pre-existing Injury

Car crashes are a common occurrence, and unfortunately, they can aggravate pre-existing injuries, making their symptoms more severe. In such cases, it can be challenging to know what to do next.

The first thing you should do if a car crash aggravates a pre-existing condition is to seek medical attention. Even if you think your injury is not severe, it’s essential to get a professional opinion. A doctor can examine you and determine the extent of the aggravation. They can also help you develop a treatment plan that takes into account both your pre-existing injury and the new aggravation.

After you seek medical attention, the next step is to contact your insurance company. If you are not at fault for the accident, you can file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. Your insurance company will help you through the claims process and work to ensure that you receive compensation for any damages or medical bills related to the accident.

It’s also a good idea to consult with a local lawyer specializing in auto accident cases in Tacoma. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary. Make sure to keep track of all medical bills and documentation related to the accident. This information will be important when you file your insurance claim or pursue legal action.

How Can a Doctor Determine If a Car Accident Made a Pre-existing Condition Worse?

When a patient with a pre-existing condition is involved in a car crash, it can be challenging for doctors to determine how the accident worsened the pre-existing condition. However, there are several signs and evidence that a doctor can look for to make this determination.

First, the doctor will need to review your medical history to understand the extent of the pre-existing condition. They will then conduct a physical examination to determine if your symptoms have worsened since the accident. The doctor may also order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to evaluate the severity of the condition.

The doctor will look for specific signs and evidence to determine how the accident worsened the pre-existing condition, which may include the following:

New or worsened symptoms: If you experience new or worsened symptoms after the accident, it may be a sign that the pre-existing condition was aggravated. For example, if a patient with a pre-existing back injury experiences increased pain or numbness after a car crash, this could indicate that the injury was aggravated.

Changes in diagnostic test results: If your diagnostic test results change after the accident, it could be a sign that the pre-existing condition was aggravated. For example, if a patient with a pre-existing brain injury has an MRI after a car crash that shows new or worsened damage, this could indicate that the injury was aggravated.

Timing of symptoms: If your symptoms occur shortly after the accident, it may be a sign that the pre-existing condition was aggravated. For example, if a patient with a pre-existing neck injury experiences increased pain and stiffness immediately after a car crash, this could indicate that the injury was aggravated.

Medical documentation: If you have medical documentation that shows the pre-existing condition was stable before the accident, it can be used as evidence that the accident worsened the condition.

Determining how a pre-existing condition was aggravated in a car crash requires a thorough evaluation by a medical professional who should look at the patient’s medical history, conduct a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests to determine the extent that the car accident worsened the previous injury.

Does a Pre-existing Condition Need To Be Documented in a Medical File?

Medical records are an essential part of any personal injury claim or lawsuit. They provide evidence of the extent and severity of the injuries sustained in the accident, including any pre-existing conditions that may have been aggravated.

When a patient seeks medical treatment, the doctor or medical provider will typically document the patient’s medical history and any pre-existing conditions in their medical records. This information is crucial to understanding the patient’s overall health and can help doctors make informed decisions about their treatment.

Be honest with your medical provider about any pre-existing conditions or injuries. Failing to disclose this information could have negative consequences for your case and could even result in the denial of your claim.

Documenting pre-existing conditions is crucial in personal injury cases. It provides evidence of the extent and severity of injuries sustained in the accident and can help establish a link between the accident and any aggravation of pre-existing conditions. If you have a pre-existing condition that has been aggravated by a car accident, make sure to inform your medical provider and have it documented in your medical records.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

If a car crash has aggravated a pre-existing injury, here are some of the ways a lawyer can assist you:

Legal advice: A personal injury lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and options. They can help you understand the legal process, the potential outcomes of your case, and what steps you should take to protect your rights.

Insurance negotiations: A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages and injuries. Insurance companies may try to downplay the extent of your pre-existing injury or the aggravation caused by the accident. A lawyer can help you build a strong case that demonstrates the full extent of your damages and injuries.

Evidence gathering: A lawyer can help you gather evidence to support your case. They can interview witnesses, review medical records, and work with experts to demonstrate the extent of the aggravation caused by the accident.

Legal representation: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can represent you in court. They can present your case to a judge or jury and argue on your behalf. A lawyer can use their legal knowledge and expertise to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Settlement negotiations: A lawyer can negotiate a settlement agreement with the other party’s insurance company or attorney. Settlement negotiations can be complicated, and a lawyer can help you understand your options and ensure that you receive fair compensation.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the legal process. They can help you understand your legal rights, build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court. By working with a personal injury lawyer, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your damages and injuries. Call South Sound Law Group today at (253) 383-3328 for a free consultation!