For many, going to the doctor is a chore. Whether you don’t feel well or have an annual physical coming up, you may dread the appointment. However, when you’ve sustained an injury due to the negligent actions of another person, seeking medical care is critical to the outcome of your case. It’s also important to understand that going to your scheduled medical appointments is just as critical. As such, if you’ve sustained an injury and want to skip your upcoming visit, you’ll want to read the following blog to learn why you should think twice. You’ll also learn how personal injury attorneys in Baltimore County can represent you in these matters and provide beneficial advice to help your case.
Why Is It Important to Go to Medical Appointments After an Accident?
When you are involved in an accident due to the negligence of another party, whether it is a collision with a drunk driver or a slip and fall in a supermarket, one of the most important things you can do is seek immediate medical attention for the injuries you’ve sustained. This is critical as it not only ensures your health and well-being in the days and months following the accident but can also help your injury claim.
When you are injured, obtaining medical care helps record the severity of your injuries and the impact it has on your life. This can ensure you recover the compensation you deserve, not only for the cost of treatment but also for the non-economic damages inflicted, like pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life as the result of your injuries.
It’s imperative to understand that many of these injuries require ongoing care to document the progress of the injuries. For example, some injuries can take significantly longer to heal and, as a result, may cause prolonged pain and suffering. Ensuring that these matters are recorded by a medical professional is crucial.
How Can This Impact the Outcome of My Case?
Following an accident, it’s imperative to seek medical treatment, not only because it can help gather important evidence and ensure your health is managed, but failure to do so can drastically impact the outcome of your case in Maryland.
While most states simply follow a comparative negligence statute that holds victims who are partially responsible for their injuries liable by deducting their percentage of liability in the accident from their compensation award, Maryland adheres to the contributory negligence statute when handling personal injury cases. Essentially, this means that any injury victim who is found liable for any part of the accident or subsequent injuries they’ve endured will be barred from recovering compensation. As such, if you are deemed 1% liable, you will be unable to obtain damages, making it all the more important to adhere to the orders of your doctor and attend all medical appointments.
When you miss your medical appointments or fail to adhere to the doctor’s advice, the defense can claim you have neglected your health, thus worsening your injuries. As such, you can be deemed liable and barred from recovering compensation under the contributory statute.
Unfortunately, navigating the laws surrounding personal injuries can be incredibly difficult in Maryland. That’s why it’s critical to connect with an experienced attorney from the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi. Our team understands the impact these matters may have on your case, which is why we can guide you through this process to fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, our firm is here. Contact us today to learn more.