Insurance companies often contact accident victims soon after the accident to fish for information they can use to deny or devalue their claim. That is why they may ask you to sign over your medical records. Below, learn more about why it may be a bad idea to sign a release to allow an insurance company to have access to your medical records, whether it is your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company.

Why Does the Insurance Company Want Medical Records?

The insurance company wants access to your medical records to find something they can use to damage your credibility and deny or devalue your claim.

If you sign a medical release form, the insurance company will likely look for evidence of a pre-existing medical condition they may claim is the cause of your injuries and not the accident. The insurance company may also look for information to attempt to discredit your claims about the severity of your injuries. For example, your records may not include your recovery timeline or information connecting the injury to the accident.

You will need to provide your medical records at some point, but it is generally best to review your records with a licensed attorney who can determine what you should provide to protect your best interests and the value of your claim.

What is an IME?

If you reject the insurance company’s request to sign a medical release, they may request that you have an independent medical examination (IME).

The doctors who perform these exams are chosen by the insurance company because they consistently reach conclusions that favor insurance companies. The doctor may say your injuries were not caused by the accident or are not as severe as previously claimed.

If you receive a request for an IME, you should strongly consider discussing it with an attorney. You may not be required to go through with it. If you are, your lawyer can prepare you for it to help you avoid unintentionally hurting your claim.

Ways Your Lawyer Can Help Protect Your Claim

One of the main benefits of working with an attorney is that he or she can deal with the insurance company on your behalf. Your attorney will be focused on protecting the full value of your claim and can help determine what information to provide to the adjuster or other insurance company representatives. Your lawyer can also explain how to answer insurance company questions if you need to provide a recorded statement.

Contact an Attorney Today

Were you injured in a car accident? Are you concerned that your prior medical records may derail your claim? You should consider discussing the situation with a qualified attorney. The experienced Silver Spring personal injury lawyers at Goldberg Finnegan have been representing injury victims for more than 20 years and have a proven track record of success.