Should An Attorney Recommend Medical Treatment After a Car Accident

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By Yosi Yahoudai
Founder and Managing Partner

One of the recommendations that every accident victim receives, even if they do not decide to take legal action, is to seek medical attention. Understandably, however, the thought of beginning the process of scheduling medical appointments and initiating treatments can be overwhelming, especially as you manage the other financial and emotional consequences of the incident.

Before facing all of this, it is important that you know which parts of the process will be your responsibility and which ones a lawyer can help you with.

There is a common conception regarding what a lawyer can decide when a person who suffered a traffic accident is contacted. While it is true that obtaining medical attention will benefit both your health and the outcome of your claim, when it comes to personal injury claims, certain things are best handled on your own, such as setting up treatment with a doctor.

This does not mean that you are completely alone when making decisions related to your well-being and your potential case. A lawyer will be able to advise you regarding certain issues. When meeting with an attorney to discuss your situation, you must share the following information:

  • Whether you have health insurance or not
  • If you have received preliminary treatment before your consultation
  • If you have been to an emergency room, urgent care, or primary care
  • If you are undergoing any type of treatment after the incident

This information will help your lawyer design a work plan best suits your situation. Once you receive expert advice, you can take control of your treatment and make informed decisions as your case develops.

When taking legal action, it is important to remember that many insurance companies will try to use every action you take against you, including how you seek treatment for your injuries. Suppose you decide to wait to get medical care only after a lawyer recommends it. In that case, many insurers will try to argue that maybe you were not as injured as you claim or that you decided to work with a doctor recommended by your lawyer to present doctored results as evidence for your case.

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About the Author
Yosi Yahoudai is a founder and the managing partner of J&Y. His practice is comprised primarily of cases involving automobile and motorcycle accidents, but he also represents people in premises liability lawsuits, including suits alleging dangerous conditions of public property, third-party criminal conduct, and intentional torts. He also has expertise in cases involving product defects, dog bites, elder abuse, and sexual assault. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California and is admitted to practice in all California State Courts, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. If you have any questions about this article, you can contact Yosi by clicking here.