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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Detailed Answer

After a car accident in Massachusetts, you must document and submit medical treatment records to your auto insurer to access Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Sections 34M and 34N. Follow these steps to organize and submit your records efficiently:

1. Gather Complete Medical Documentation. Request copies of all medical records from every health care provider involved in your treatment: emergency department notes, physician reports, physical therapy records, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) and prescription records. You can invoke your HIPAA rights by signing a medical authorization form.
2. Obtain Itemized Bills and Explanations of Benefits. Secure itemized invoices from providers and Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements from your health insurer. Itemized bills must list dates of service, procedure codes and charges. EOBs show payments made and your remaining balances.
3. Create a Chronological Index. Prepare a timeline or spreadsheet that outlines each treatment date, provider name, service type and corresponding page numbers in your file. This index lets the insurer quickly locate and verify each entry.
4. Complete the PIP Claim Form. Most Massachusetts insurers provide a PIP claim form. Accurately fill in the accident date, policy number, personal information and claim type. Attach your index, records and bills. Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 34M (G.L. c.90, §34M) and Section 34N (G.L. c.90, §34N).
5. Submit via Certified Mail or Electronic Portal. Send the complete packet to your insurer’s claims department. Use certified mail with return receipt or upload via the insurer’s secure portal. Retain proof of submission to establish compliance with deadlines. Under 211 CMR 42.01, insurers must pay undisputed PIP claims within 30 days of proper documentation.
6. Follow Up and Track Correspondence. Note all calls, emails and letters to your insurer. If the insurer requests additional information, respond promptly. Keep copies of every communication to ensure timely processing and avoid denial for incomplete records.

Helpful Hints

• Keep both physical and digital copies of all records.
• Label each document with a unique identifier matching your index.
• Use a binder or secure cloud folder to organize files.
• Ask providers for expedited record retrieval if treatment was urgent.
• Check your policy’s PIP limit and deductible before submitting large bills.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.