One of the most important steps an injury victim can take after an accident is to seek out medical attention. A proper medical evaluation can reveal the extent of your injuries so they can be stabilized, and treatment can begin.
If you disagree with the diagnosis or treatment plan one doctor recommends, though, you have the right to seek a second opinion. Sometimes it is recommended that an injury victim get more than one medical opinion on his or her treatment plan, as it may strengthen the victim’s accident claim.
Call our Fort Worth-area car crash lawyers today to discuss your claim. You may be eligible to have all your medical bills and other damages paid for by the driver who caused the crash. We offer a free consultation to talk about your legal options.
There are no hourly fees. You only pay us when we successfully recover compensation for you.
Why It Is Important to Seek Out a Second Medical Opinion
Getting a second medical opinion is important for several reasons.
If you are rushed to the emergency room after an accident, you are likely going to get a medical evaluation and stabilizing treatment. It is important to see a doctor after the emergency room visit to get a better understanding of your diagnosis.
Even after you have seen another doctor who provides a diagnosis and treatment option, you may not be comfortable with what he or she is recommending. For example, if the doctor recommends surgery but you would like to find out if there are other options.
If two doctors agree that surgery is the right treatment option, it may be easier for the victim to agree to undergo surgery. However, if the two doctors disagree about your treatment, you will have a more difficult decision. Sometimes victims may want to get a third opinion if the first two doctors disagree. With multiple medical opinions, you can weigh the pros and cons of each recommendation to see what may work best for you. Remember that your health should be your primary concern.
Getting multiple medical opinions could help strengthen your claim for compensation. When there are multiple medical opinions, it can make it more difficult for the insurance company to argue that you are not injured. If you end up having surgery, recommendations for it from more than one doctor could also help you fight back when the insurance company claims you did not need the procedure.
Will the Insurance Company Require a Second Medical Opinion?
Generally, the insurance company is not going to want you to get a second medical opinion. The only time they may do this is if your doctor is recommending a very expensive treatment that the insurance company does not think is necessary.
The insurance company may ask you to undergo an independent medical evaluation. The exam is not usually considered a second medical opinion, though, and it may not be mandatory.
It is important to point out that nothing about this evaluation is “independent.” The doctor diagnosing you will be chosen by the insurance company – the doctors they chose tend to reach conclusions that favor the insurance company’s interests over the interests of the victim. These doctors often downplay the severity of injuries or dispute other doctors’ recommendations for treatment.
If the insurance company insists that you undergo an independent medical exam, it would be in your best interest to speak to an attorney first.
How Do I Find a Doctor for a Second Opinion?
You have the right to be treated by a doctor you trust. If you are using your health insurance to cover medical expenses while awaiting compensation, finding a doctor should be easy. You can request a list of covered doctors, surgeons and other specialists from your insurer. This may help in the decision-making process.
Once you have the list of covered doctors, you can speak to friends and family members who may be able to make a recommendation. You can also look at reviews other patients have left for certain doctors.
Your attorney may also be able to provide a recommendation, as lawyers usually work with multiple doctors when handling claims.
If you opt out of using your health insurance, or do not have health insurance, you can still get recommendations from your attorney, family and friends to find a doctor you will be comfortable with and who fits your budget.
We Are Ready to Help. Call Us Today
Getting a second medical opinion about your injuries is generally a good idea. This could not only help you make a more educated decision about your treatment plan, but it could also help strengthen the validity of your claim.
Our experienced attorneys are prepared to help you throughout the entire legal process, including when you need a second medical opinion or if the insurance company is insisting on a medical exam.
Call (817) 920-9000 to schedule a free legal consultation.