What Medical Records Do I Need for My Atlanta Accident Claim?
Quick Answer
You need emergency room records, diagnostic test results (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), physician notes, treatment plans, therapy records, prescription documentation, and all medical bills. Also include pre-accident medical records to prove your injuries are new, work restriction documentation, and future treatment recommendations from your doctors.
Essential Medical Documentation for Georgia Claims
Comprehensive medical records form the foundation of your Atlanta car accident claim, directly linking your injuries to the collision and justifying your compensation demands. Georgia law requires clear medical evidence to prove causation, document treatment necessity, and establish the full extent of your damages, making thorough documentation critical for maximizing recovery.
Initial Emergency Treatment Records
Emergency room and urgent care records provide crucial documentation of your immediate injuries and initial medical assessment. These records should include triage notes, physician examinations, diagnostic test orders, initial diagnoses, treatment provided, discharge instructions, and referrals to specialists. Early medical attention strengthens the causal link between the accident and your injuries.
Diagnostic Test Results
- X-rays: Document fractures, dislocations, and bone abnormalities
- MRIs: Reveal soft tissue damage, herniated discs, and ligament tears
- CT scans: Show internal injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- EMG/NCV studies: Prove nerve damage and radiculopathy
- Blood work: Indicate internal bleeding or organ dysfunction
Always obtain both the images and the radiologist’s interpretive reports, as insurance companies often require independent review of diagnostic studies to verify injury claims.
Ongoing Treatment Documentation
Physician Records
Regular physician visit notes documenting your symptoms, pain levels, physical limitations, treatment progress, and prognosis are essential. Include records from all treating physicians: primary care doctors, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, pain management specialists, and any other specialists addressing your accident-related injuries.
Therapy and Rehabilitation Records
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and chiropractic treatment records demonstrate your commitment to recovery while documenting ongoing limitations. These records should include initial evaluations, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries indicating whether maximum medical improvement was achieved or further treatment is needed.
Financial Medical Documentation
Maintain detailed records of all medical expenses, including hospital bills, physician fees, therapy costs, prescription receipts, medical equipment purchases, and mileage to medical appointments. Georgia law allows recovery for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses caused by the accident, making complete financial documentation crucial.
Pre-Accident Medical History
Insurance companies scrutinize pre-existing conditions to minimize claim values. Providing your pre-accident medical records helps distinguish new injuries from prior conditions and demonstrates how the accident aggravated existing problems. Your Atlanta car accident attorney can help present this information strategically.
Future Medical Needs Documentation
For serious injuries requiring ongoing care, obtain written opinions from treating physicians regarding future medical needs, including anticipated surgeries, long-term therapy requirements, medication needs, and medical equipment. Life care planners may be necessary for catastrophic injuries to properly document lifetime medical costs.
Work Restriction Documentation
If your injuries affect your ability to work, obtain detailed work restriction notes from your doctors specifying physical limitations, restricted activities, and anticipated duration of limitations. This documentation supports lost wage claims and potential loss of earning capacity damages.
Organizing Your Medical Records
Get Personalized Legal Advice
Every case is unique. Get specific answers about your situation from Attorney Ronnie Mabra.
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Call (678) 235-3870
Get Personalized Legal Advice
Every case is unique. Get specific answers about your situation from Attorney Ronnie Mabra.
Get Free Consultation Call (678) 235-3870