Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
When you’re a passenger injured in a vehicle accident, maintaining continuity of care is vital to protect your injury claim. Insurers and defense attorneys often scrutinize gaps or inconsistencies in medical treatment to argue that injuries weren’t serious or that you failed to mitigate damages.
1. Seek Prompt Medical Evaluation
• Get examined immediately—even if injuries seem minor. Emergency rooms and urgent care centers create official medical records with dates and diagnoses.
• Immediate treatment establishes the causal link between the accident and your injuries.
2. Select a Primary Treating Provider
• Choose a physician or chiropractor experienced with motor vehicle claims.
• Seeing the same provider for follow-up ensures consistent documentation of your symptoms and treatment plan.
3. Follow All Treatment Recommendations
• Attend every scheduled appointment.
• Complete prescribed physical therapy, imaging studies, or specialist referrals.
• Adhere to your provider’s home-exercise routines and medication instructions.
4. Document Every Step
• Keep copies of all medical records, bills, receipts, imaging reports, and therapy notes.
• Create a treatment timeline showing dates, providers, diagnoses, and procedures.
• Maintain a symptom diary describing pain levels, mobility issues, and medication changes.
5. Transfer Records if You Change Providers
• If you switch doctors, request a full transfer of your prior records.
• Ensure new providers review past treatment notes to connect ongoing therapy with your initial injury.
6. Communicate New or Lingering Symptoms
• Report any new pain, numbness, headaches, or emotional distress promptly.
• Regular updates help confirm that your condition is directly tied to the accident.
7. Understand Wyoming’s Damage Mitigation Requirement
Under Wyoming law, injured parties must take reasonable steps to mitigate damages. Failing to follow prescribed care can reduce your recoverable compensation. For general tort rules, see Title 1, Chapter 1 of the Wyoming Statutes: https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title01.pdf
8. Preserve Evidence of Payments
• Keep invoices and proof of payment for co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
• These documents support claims for medical costs under the collateral source rule.
Helpful Hints
- Carry a treatment binder or use a secure cloud folder for all documents.
- Set calendar reminders for each medical and therapy appointment.
- Take clear photos of visible injuries over time for comparison.
- Keep a written log of phone calls with medical offices or insurance adjusters.
- Consider hiring an attorney early to guide medical record collection and preserve evidence.