DOCTOR BILLS, REPORTS, ETC.
Please be aware and assume that everything stated and/or observed by your doctor may be taken down in detailed notes. These notes, or a report made from them, are later read by the insurance company when it is time to negotiate the value of your personal injury claim. The value of your claim largely depends on your doctors' reports. If your doctor is not aware of your limitations, pain, etc., he/she will not provide that information in the report. If your doctor feels an injury is exaggerated, it may be put in a report.
Give Complete Information To Your Doctor
Remember to tell your doctor about all your pains, discomforts, and limitations. Your doctor will determine whether the complaints are related to the accident. Some problems may seem minor, but relate to another injury in another part of your body. Your doctor will need this information in order to properly treat you. Try to be as accurate and objective as possible; under no circumstances should you fabricate or exaggerate any problems. Include the following information:
- Complaints of pain immediately after the accident and symptoms which developed within the first few days.
- Describe how the accident happened and what caused your injuries during impact (connect your injuries with what happened to your body during impact). For example, your head struck the windshield causing head injury.
- Symptoms that developed later and what symptoms you are presently having.
- How long each symptom lasted.
- Tell your doctor about any job related activities that affect your injuries and if your job performance is adversely affected. Your doctor then can determine whether your injuries prevent you from performing your job for a certain amount of time or permanently.
If you return to work and find that your injuries are aggravated, return to your doctor. Your doctor may recommend you stop work for awhile, or reassure you that working will not interfere or prolong your recovery.
If your doctor recommends that you not work for awhile, the insurance company will require something in writing from your doctor indicating the time period that you are to remain off work.
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