If you were injured in a car accident, you will likely begin accumulating many medical records. Among these may be your doctor’s note, which can provide valuable evidence from a more objective party about the extent of your injuries and your limitations. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you obtain a doctor’s note to help establish your San Antonio injury claim.
Importance of Medical Records in a San Antonio Injury Claim
During your San Antonio accident claim, the insurance company responsible for paying for your damages may request medical records related to your injuries. Sometimes, the insurance company sends medical release forms to obtain these records. However, you should not sign these documents, as it is often a fishing expedition to try to find a long-ago accident or condition to blame your current injuries on. Instead, your personal injury lawyer can obtain the records you need, such as:
- Emergency room records
- Records of doctor’s appointments
- X-rays and other diagnostic tests
- Hospital records
- Long-term care plans
- Medications
- Follow-up visits
- Doctor’s notes
- Referrals to specialists
These records can serve as valuable proof of the extent of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life.
Purpose of a Doctor’s Note in a Personal Injury Claim
A doctor’s note can provide valuable evidence to aid in your personal injury claim. It may provide information such as:
- When you sought medical treatment
- The type of medical treatment you received
- Your diagnosis
- Your prognosis
- Restrictions on work and other physical activity
- The cost of your medical treatment
Additionally, you can give your employer a copy of your doctor’s notes so they are aware of your work restrictions and can approve your sick leave. The more medical documentation you have to prove your injuries, the stronger your claim can be.
What to Include in a Doctor’s Note
Your doctor’s note should preferably include the following information:
- Your healthcare provider’s name, address, and contact information
- Your doctor’s name
- A diagnosis of your injuries
- How your injuries will likely impact your work
- Your treatment plan
- How much time are you recommended to stay away from work
- The date
- Restrictions on activities
The more detailed and specific your note is, the better and the more likely your employer is to respect it.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers Today for Help with Your Case
Dealing with painful injuries, coordinating your medical care, and communicating with your employer about your need for time off after someone else’s negligence is responsible for your injuries can be challenging. The legal team at George Salinas Injury Lawyers is here to aid in your recovery. We can help procure the necessary medical evidence you need for your employer to approve your time-off request and to support your personal injury claim. We can also work with your medical providers to ensure we have a strong understanding of the nature of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case with an experienced San Antonio truck wreck lawyer.