A lot of injuries sustained in car accidents like lacerations and broken bones are obvious. But some are hard to recognize. These invisible injuries are called such as they don’t appear in medical scans and are not physically visible. However, they are real to victims.
These injuries can inflict severe harm like chronic pain and disability. Sadly, these injuries are not easy to prove during an insurance claim. But a New Jersey car accident attorney knows what it takes to prevail in your case.
What are Invisible Injuries
These injuries may not present physical signs or be seen on X-rays and medical scans. But they still exist and can lead to a range of issues for you. A car accident can inflict a lot of injuries, including those that are not obvious right away.
Such injuries may have delayed or hidden symptoms. These injuries include whiplash, tennis elbow, soft tissue injuries, back injuries, knee injuries, concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and joint issues. While these injuries may not present outward signs like bleeding or bruising, they can dramatically affect your life.
If you experience symptoms like immobility or pain that could be related to an injury following a car crash, see a doctor right away. Be honest with the doctor about your experience. An invisible injury can still qualify you for compensation.
Proving an Invisible Injury
After a car accident, you must prove that you sustained an injury to recover financial compensation from your insurance company or the at-fault party’s insurer. You will need to give the insurer proof of your losses and injury.
But with an invisible injury, there is no physical evidence you can use. But expert testimony and medical documents can help you succeed in your case.
Medical records are a kind of evidence you can depend on if you have an invisible injury and seek compensation for it. Even if medical tests and scans cannot detect your injury, medical evidence is still available to prove the injury exists.
This evidence includes your doctor’s notes with your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with an invisible injury, such medical records will be used to support your claim. Also, expert witnesses can help prove your injury.
Medical experts can give testimony regarding your injury’s existence even if there is no physical proof. In addition, a vocational rehabilitation expert can testify to your inability to perform your job duties due to your injury.
When pursuing a claim for invisible injuries sustained in a car accident in New Jersey, understanding the nuances of legal and medical proof is essential. Invisible injuries, while not outwardly apparent, can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life and ability to work. To successfully claim compensation, a detailed approach to documenting these injuries and their effects is crucial.
Documenting Invisible Injuries
Effective documentation is paramount when dealing with invisible injuries. This includes keeping a detailed diary of symptoms, the impact on daily activities, and any treatments or medications.
Such documentation helps create a comprehensive picture of the injury’s impact over time, providing crucial support for your claim. It’s also important to follow all medical advice and treatment plans prescribed by your healthcare provider, as this demonstrates a serious approach to recovery and further legitimizes the claim.
Gathering Expert Testimony
Expert testimony can greatly enhance the credibility of your claim. Medical experts, such as neurologists or psychologists, can attest to the likely causes of your symptoms and the potential long-term effects.
These professionals can explain how the accident caused the injuries, despite a lack of physical evidence like bruises or broken bones. Furthermore, vocational experts can assess how your ability to work has been affected, which is critical in establishing the economic impact of your injury.
Legal Strategy
A seasoned New Jersey car accident attorney will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of your claim. They can help in gathering the necessary medical evidence and expert testimonies, as well as in negotiating with insurance companies. An attorney understands the legal precedents and specific requirements to prove an invisible injury in court, if necessary.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when claiming for invisible injuries. Insurers may be skeptical of injuries that aren’t visible or aren’t supported by typical diagnostic tests. A lawyer can help articulate the seriousness of your condition and negotiate effectively, ensuring that the insurance company considers the full extent of your injuries and the impact on your life.
Psychological Impact
It’s important to consider and document the psychological impact of invisible injuries. Conditions like chronic pain or traumatic brain injury can lead to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Mental health professionals can provide reports that detail these effects, which adds another layer of necessary documentation to support your claim.
By combining thorough medical documentation, expert testimony, legal knowledge, and a clear understanding of the insurance landscape, you can effectively pursue a claim for invisible injuries in New Jersey. Remember, while the injuries may be invisible, the pain and suffering are real, and acknowledging the full scope of their impact is essential for a fair resolution.