Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
In Maine personal injury cases, chiropractic treatment records can serve as powerful evidence. Courts recognize these records under the medical diagnosis and treatment hearsay exception, provided they meet certain requirements.
1. Admissibility under Maine Rules of Evidence
Under Maine Rule of Evidence 803(4), statements made for purposes of medical diagnosis or treatment are admissible despite the hearsay rule. Chiropractic records qualify when they:
- Document the patient’s history, symptoms, or complaints.
- Were made contemporaneously by a licensed chiropractor.
- Aid in the diagnosis or treatment of the injury.
2. Definition of Health Care Provider
Chiropractors count as health care providers under 32 M.R.S. § 10552. This status ensures their treatment records meet statutory criteria for admissible medical records.
3. Establishing Injury and Causation
Accurate chiropractic records outline the nature, onset, and progression of your injury. They help establish:
- The timeline of treatment and related costs.
- The severity and persistence of symptoms.
- The causal link between the incident and your injuries, often supported by expert testimony.
4. Calculating Damages
Treatment records provide verifiable proof of medical expenses. Under Maine tort law, you may recover these expenses as economic damages. Detailed billing, invoices, and therapy notes strengthen your claim for compensation.
Helpful Hints
- Request complete records: Ensure you obtain intake forms, progress notes, and billing statements.
- Verify accuracy: Review dates, descriptions, and any codes for errors.
- Organize chronologically: Present records in sequence to create a clear treatment timeline.
- Consult a qualified attorney: An attorney can authenticate records and integrate them effectively into your claim.