Getting immediate medical care for your injuries is essential if you were hurt in a car accident in Virginia. It is also important to follow up on your medical treatment. However, in some cases, you may want to seek a second opinion on the medical care you are receiving. There are several reasons why this might be a good idea when you are pursuing a claim against the negligent driver for the injuries caused in an auto collision.
Reasons You May Want a Second Opinion About Your Injuries
Getting a second opinion from another doctor can be beneficial for your health and strengthen your compensation claim. Here are reasons you may want to seek a second opinion:
- Uncertainty about your treatment. There may be more than one way to treat your injuries. If you have questions about the treatment plan your physician is proposing or they are discounting the severity of your injuries, it could be a good idea to obtain a second opinion before proceeding.
- Surgery. If your doctor is recommending surgery, you will need to weigh the pros and cons of this approach to treating your injuries. There are often many risks associated with surgical procedures. You may want to discuss your treatment options with another doctor before making a decision to be certain that they agree with your physician’s recommendation.
- Specialist. If your primary physician is treating you, you may want to be seen by a doctor who specializes in treating your medical condition, especially if you have suffered severe or long-term injuries.
- Little improvement. You may want a second opinion if you are not recovering from your injuries or they are worsening, and your doctor is not suggesting any changes in your treatment plan.
- Your claim. Your physician may not want to write a medical report, give a deposition, or testify in court if this becomes necessary to settle your claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company. You may need to obtain a second opinion from a doctor who could act as an expert witness in your case.
How Getting a Second Opinion May Affect Your Claim With the Insurance Company
Even if you have a strong case, the insurance company could look for ways to deny or delay your claim or to pay you less than you deserve under Virginia law. If you seek a second opinion, they may argue that you are trying to find a doctor who will say your injuries are more serious than they really are. They may also argue that this raises questions about your credibility. The insurance company may seek a second opinion, too, and require you to submit to an independent medical exam.
Are you considering getting a second medical opinion after suffering injuries in an auto collision? Do you have other questions about your right to compensation for your injuries? Our experienced car accident attorneys are here to answer your questions and go up against the insurance company for the settlement you deserve. Call our Norfolk office at 757.625.1214 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation today to learn more about how we can assist you.
|
Related Links: |