Seeing a doctor is one of the first steps in any kind of accident or injury claim. The most obvious reason to see a doctor is, of course, to get you the treatment you need and start on the road to recovery. But your doctor visit is also essential from a legal perspective. Their diagnosis helps you put forward a strong claim and get the money you’re entitled to.
But not every medical opinion is equal. A diagnosis is a doctor’s official opinion on what’s medically wrong with you. Like all opinions, it can be wrong. Doctors are highly skilled professionals, but no doctor can be an expert in every type of injury. Often, accident victims go to their general practitioner even if they have an unusual or severe injury that outside of that doctor’s normal practice. This can result in a medical diagnosis that is inaccurate, and lead to incorrect treatment or even no real treatment at all.
How does a diagnosis affect my case?
The diagnosis does two very important things in your case:
- It proves that you have a real injury and need treatment
- It establishes what sort of treatment or care you need, and what it will likely cost.
If the diagnosis is incorrect, then you could end up getting far less money than you need. Later, when the full extent of the injury becomes obvious, you might have to pay tens of thousands of dollars more for treatment—out of your own pocket. A good lawyer will help you make sure that your injury is fully understood from the beginning, often by making sure you see a specialist who understands the type of injury in question. Then, you can pursue the true, full amount you need.
Have you been injured? John Foy & Associates offers a free consultation with some of the most experienced and respected personal injury lawyers in Georgia. Fill out the form to your right or call us at 404-400-4000 to get your FREE consultation today.