5 Healthcare-Related Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident

Any motor-vehicle collision has the potential to cause damage, but the injuries resulting from large truck crashes tend to be particularly debilitating. Tractor-trailers weigh up to 20 times more than the average passenger car, so the force of impact can be devastating—even at relatively slow speeds.

If you were hurt or lost a family member in a truck accident, you may be able to file a third-party claim against the motor carrier and/or another liable party. But before you can recover a single dime, you must be able to prove liability and the value of your damages.

The insurance company will look for reasons to dispute your claim, and one small mistake early in the proceedings could jeopardize your entire case. Some of the most common errors made by claimants relate to their medical care.

Let’s examine a few healthcare-related mistakes you should avoid after a truck crash:

1. Asking the Medical Team for Legal Advice 

Your medical team might be your best source for advice on treating your injuries, but you should only trust a seasoned personal injury lawyer when it comes to making informed decisions regarding your claim. 

2. Failing to Attend Follow-up Appointments 

It may be tempting to skip your follow-up appointments if your condition is improving, but doing so could hurt your case. The insurance company will review your medical records line by line at some point during the proceedings, and they might use missed appointments as evidence that your own negligence contributed to the severity of your injuries, or that your injuries are not that serious. 

3. Failing to Follow Your Doctor’s Orders 

This is another mistake that could motivate the insurance company to argue your own negligence caused your injuries to worsen. Be sure to fill all prescriptions on time, attend physical therapy, and follow any other instructions from your healthcare team. 

4. Discussing the Details of Your Case with Your Healthcare Provider

Anything you say to your doctor could make its way into your medical record, which will be essential evidence in your case. If you speculate regarding the specific cause of your injuries, for example, and your statements indicate that you were partially at fault, this could be used to dispute liability. Also, if you misstate something that conflicts with the evidence, this may bring your credibility into question. 

5. Not Mentioning Prior Injuries or Illnesses 

Failing to tell your physician about any existing conditions could also diminish your credibility if these injuries or illnesses come to light. It may also reduce the efficacy of your treatment because doctors need to have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history to make an accurate diagnosis. 

Call 320-259-5414 to Speak with a Truck Accident Attorney in Minneapolis 

If you were hurt in a truck accident, a personal injury attorney from Bradshaw & Bryant will help you avoid critical mistakes and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 320-259-5414 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Minneapolis.