Detailed Answer
When you file a car accident injury claim in Connecticut, your insurer—and, if you sue, the court—needs a complete, organized set of your medical treatment records. Follow these steps to document and submit everything correctly under Connecticut law:
- Gather All Medical Records. Request records from every provider who treated you after the crash: emergency rooms, urgent care, specialists, physical therapists, chiropractors and imaging centers. Ask for both narrative reports and itemized bills.
- Organize Chronologically. Create a master table or timeline listing dates of service, provider names, treatment types and total charges. Save PDF copies and paper originals in labeled folders.
- Complete Your PIP Claim Form. Connecticut requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Fill out your insurer’s PIP application completely. Attach your timeline and an authorization allowing the insurer to obtain records directly.
- Submit Records to Your Insurer on Time. Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 38a-334-4, you must submit all written notice, claim forms, medical bills and records within 60 days of treatment. Failing to meet this deadline can delay or bar payment. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 38a-334-4
- Send via Certified Mail or Secure Portal. Use certified mail with return receipt or your insurer’s approved electronic portal. This creates proof of delivery and protects you from disputes about when records arrived.
- Keep Proof of Submission. Retain your certified mail receipt or electronic confirmation. File any insurer responses in your master file.
- Follow Up Promptly. If the insurer requests additional information or clarification, respond within 10 business days to avoid claim denials.
- Litigation: Provide in Discovery. If you file a lawsuit, include medical records in your initial disclosures under Conn. Practice Book § 13-3. Serve copies on the defendant along with any authorizations they need to obtain further records.
Disclaimer: This article does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for personalized guidance.
Helpful Hints
- Create digital and paper backups for every record.
- Request itemized bills showing procedure codes and dates.
- Use a dedicated calendar to track all submission and response deadlines.
- Include concise cover letters summarizing attachments.
- Label each document clearly with provider name and date.
- Confirm receipt by calling the claims adjuster after delivery.
- Review your insurer’s PIP benefit guide for specific procedures.