Car accidents in California caused over 260,000 injuries in 2019. When an accident causes injuries or property damage, you can seek compensation from the at-fault driver. However, many victims have hidden injuries that they don’t factor into their settlements. This oversight can lead to future health complications and surprise medical expenses.
An MRI can help spot these hidden conditions, but does an MRI increase settlement values? While it depends on the facts of your case, an MRI often leads to more compensation.
If you are hurt in a car accident, work with the professionals at Silva Injury Law. Our lawyers know how to use MRIs to pursue the best settlements available for clients.
Schedule your complimentary consultation now by calling us at (209) 600-4389 today!
What Does an MRI Do?
An MRI is a modern medical tool crucial for evaluating injuries in personal injury cases. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRIs use magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of internal body structures without radiation. These scans capture soft tissues like muscles and ligaments, offering a deeper understanding of your physical injuries after a car accident.
How Does an MRI Increase Settlement Amounts?
Many defendants try to undervalue personal injury claims, especially for injuries that are hard to prove. But when you get an MRI, you will have high-resolution images that show the extent of your internal injuries. Your lawyer can work with an expert to explain the relevance of the images and the impact the injuries will have on your life. With this essential evidence, you can seek a higher settlement that will compensate for the harm caused by these injuries.
How Soon Should I Get an MRI After a Car Accident?
It’s best to seek medical care as soon as possible after a car accident. The sooner you see a doctor, the faster they can identify and treat your injuries. During your visit, the doctor might recommend you get an MRI. You also have the right to request an MRI if you think it’s in your best interest.
In addition to getting you the care you need, seeing a doctor creates medical records that can support your compensation claim. Establishing these records as early as possible is crucial to showing a clear link between the accident and your injuries. If you get an MRI months after a car accident, the other side may say that too much time has passed to establish this link.
What Symptoms Indicate I Need an MRI?
Some injuries can go unseen for a while, and you might not notice symptoms for days or weeks.
However, it’s vital to schedule your MRI as soon as the following signs appear:
- Persistent pain. Victims may notice persistent pain in areas such as the neck, back, or joints, with pain relievers only providing temporary relief.
- Limited range of motion. You may have difficulty moving or a noticeable reduction in your range of motion due to soft tissue damage.
- Headaches or migraines. Symptoms like frequent or severe headaches may indicate potential brain injuries.
- Numbness or tingling. Persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in any body part could signal nerve damage.
- Dizziness or vertigo. Ongoing dizziness or a spinning sensation can occur if the accident affects the inner ear or brain.
- Memory loss or cognitive issues. You should see a doctor if you notice post-accident memory loss, difficulty concentrating, or other cognitive issues.
- Internal discomfort. Vague internal discomfort or pain is a common sign of internal organ damage.
- Persistent fatigue. Chronic fatigue following a car accident might be due to hidden injuries, and an MRI can help uncover any underlying issues causing this condition.
- Abnormal bruising or swelling. Some internal injuries cause unexplained or persistent bruising and swelling.
Don’t hesitate to speak with a doctor if you notice these symptoms. Delaying an MRI after a car accident can affect your health and the value of your potential settlement.
Who Will Pay for the MRI?
You are responsible for the MRI and other medical care after an accident. You can pay for your imaging out of pocket, or your insurer can handle these payments.
While this may be difficult, you can pursue compensation from the liable driver. Your settlement demand can include the cost of the MRI and other expenses you incur while getting treatment. If you can’t afford to pay for the MRI, you may be able to get short-term funding until you finalize the settlement.
What Other Damages Can I Recover in My Settlement?
Many personal injury victims think a settlement only pays for the medical costs, which is far from the truth. You can seek compensation for anything that affects your physical health, finances, or emotional well-being. These can include a range of factors, so you need to work with an experienced attorney to see what damages you can demand.
Some of the common damages our clients seek include:
- Healthcare costs,
- Car repairs,
- Lost wages,
- Lost earning potential,
- Emotional distress,
- Loss of enjoyment of life,
- Pain and suffering, and
- Punitive damages.
Silva Injury Law has decades of experience identifying and calculating damages after car accidents. We will collect evidence to support your claims so you can seek the highest settlement possible.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
California has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injuries. The clock begins running on the date of the accident. The court may dismiss your personal injury claim if you miss this deadline. The faster you get an MRI and work with an attorney, the higher your chances are of getting a fair settlement.
Speak with an Attorney About Your Case
Life after a car accident can be difficult, especially if you want to see compensation from the negligent driver. Fortunately, you don’t have to be alone during this process. Silva Injury Law is a leading California law firm that has collected millions of dollars for our clients.
We know how to fight for your rights and will do all we can to seek the highest settlement possible for your injuries. Call us today at (209) 600-4389 to schedule your free consultation.