Dealing with an old injury that gets exacerbated by a personal injury accident can be an incredibly challenging and painful experience. Whether it’s a recurring back problem, a joint issue, or any other pre-existing condition, here are some important steps to take when faced with this situation.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Regardless of the nature of your pre-existing injury or how it got exacerbated, your first priority should be your health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if the pain seems manageable initially. Delaying treatment can worsen the injury and complicate your recovery.
- Notify Your Doctor: As a lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer from a law firm like Therman Law Offices, LTD understands, you should inform your healthcare provider about the accident and the exacerbation of your old injury. This information will help them make informed decisions regarding your treatment plan. They can also provide documentation of the link between the accident and your worsened condition, which may be important for legal purposes.
- Consult with a Lawyer: If the personal injury accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to consult with a lawyer. They can evaluate the circumstances surrounding your accident and help determine whether you have a viable legal claim. An experienced lawyer can also guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.
- Be Honest About Your Pre-Existing Condition: When discussing your case with your attorney, be completely honest about your pre-existing condition. Concealing or misrepresenting your medical history can undermine your credibility and potentially harm your case. Your attorney can strategize on how to best present your situation to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Maintain Detailed Records of Medical Treatment: Keep meticulous records of all medical treatments related to both your pre-existing injury and the injuries sustained in the accident. This includes medical bills, prescriptions, diagnostic tests, and physical therapy sessions. These records will help establish the extent of your injuries and the financial impact they’ve had on you.
- Consider Physical Therapy or Rehabilitation: Depending on the severity of your injuries, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or rehabilitation to aid in your recovery. Follow their advice and attend all recommended sessions to improve your chances of returning to your pre-accident condition.
- Communicate with Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the accident and your injuries, even if the accident was not your fault. Your insurance provider may cover certain medical expenses or provide legal representation, depending on your policy. Cooperate fully with their requests for information.
- Be Prepared for Legal Proceedings: If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim, be prepared for legal proceedings. Your attorney will guide you through the process, but it may involve negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company or even litigation. Stay patient and trust the legal process to seek fair compensation for your damages.
Experiencing a personal injury accident that exacerbates an old injury can be physically and emotionally taxing. By taking these steps, you can better manage the situation, protect your rights, and work towards a full recovery, both physically and financially. Remember that you don’t have to navigate this challenging journey alone; seeking professional legal and medical guidance can make a significant difference in your overall outcome. Contact a law office you can rely on now.