To succeed in a personal injury case in Indiana, it’s important not to underestimate the role of evidence. The plaintiff must present sufficient evidence to persuade the court in their favor. Medical records are crucial pieces of evidence that can considerably strengthen a personal injury claim.
“Medical records are a valuable form of evidence, but they come with their own unique set of challenges,” says Attorney Steve Fleschner.
Medical records establish negligence on the part of the at-fault party, and they also help the court determine the extent of the damage when awarding compensation. If you are a personal injury victim in Indiana, this article will help you understand the role of medical records in your case.
Medical Records Prove That Injuries Were Sustained
Before you claim damages in a personal injury claim, you must first prove that you sustained injuries. By providing comprehensive medical records, you can show the type of injury suffered and how much such injury affects you. It is also an excellent way to show how much effort has gone into treating your injury and how long your recovery will take.
The extent of the injury, its impact on your personal and professional life, and its effect on your mental health are key factors in determining the amount of compensation you may receive. Medical records play a crucial role in establishing this evidence.
However, the mere existence of medical records is not always enough. These records must be directly relevant to your case. In other words, you must be able to show that the medical documentation relates specifically to the injury you sustained as a result of another party’s negligence.
Establish Causation and Damages Using Medical Records
Qualified experts can review and provide opinions based on the medical records presented. The information in those records should substantiate the injury you claim to have suffered as a result of another person’s actions or lack thereof. There must be a clear causal link between the defendant’s conduct and the resulting damages. After establishing that vital connection, you can build the case upon the supporting medical evidence.
In addition, medical bills and records outline the total costs of diagnosis, treatment, prescribed medications, and rehabilitation. The court relies on this documentation to validate your injuries and to determine the amount of compensation for your claim.
What are the Challenges of Medical Records?
One common issue is incomplete or inconsistent records, which can be detrimental to a case. When an attorney reviews medical documentation and finds discrepancies, those inconsistencies can create reasonable doubt and weaken the claim.
Another concern is potential bias from the healthcare facility providing the records. Defense attorneys may argue that such facilities have a personal interest in the outcome of the case due to financial arrangements or close ties with the plaintiff. Therefore, an expert must carefully review all medical records and address any potential conflicts to prevent these types of scenarios from playing out and adversely affecting the outcome of your claim or case.
Conclusion
A sound foundation is essential for any legal action, as it provides the basis that gives credibility to a legal claim. To build this foundation, you must have irrefutable evidence that backs up your narrative and sways opinions in your favor. In personal injury cases filed in Indiana, presenting medical records is a key way to establish the foundation. After your attorney properly introduces and verifies the medical records, they can effectively build your case by filing this evidence with the courts to pursue compensation, and secure the justice you deserve.
