Do I Need To Follow My Medical Treatment After a Car Accident? Legal Implications of Follow-Up Care after a Car Accident
We often speak with people who, after having been injured in car accident, begin treatment but then stop going to follow-up appointments. Whether it’s due to cost, time constraints, or simply starting to feel better, it’s important to understand that skipping or stopping recommended medical care can seriously impact your personal injury claim.
Here’s why:
1. Insurance Companies Will Use It Against You
When you file a claim, insurance companies comb through your medical records to evaluate the extent of your injuries. If you stop treatment prematurely or skip follow-up care, they may argue that:
You weren’t seriously injured, or
You made your injuries worse by not following medical advice
Either way, this can reduce the value of your claim—or worse, lead to a denial altogether.
2. You Might Undermine the Link Between the Accident and Your Injuries
To recover compensation, we have to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident—not something else. Gaps in treatment or inconsistent medical visits can make it harder to draw that clear connection, opening the door for the insurance company to question the cause of your injuries.
3. You Could Jeopardize Your Health
Aside from the legal and financial consequences, not following through on medical care could delay your healing or lead to long-term complications. It’s not uncommon for accident victims to feel okay at first, only to later develop symptoms or chronic pain. Following through with your doctor’s plan ensures you’re giving yourself the best chance at a full recovery.
4. New Hampshire Law Requires You to Mitigate Damages
Under New Hampshire personal injury law, you have a duty to mitigate your damages. That means you must take reasonable steps to get better—like attending appointments, taking prescribed medication, and following through on physical therapy. If you don’t, the other side could argue that they shouldn’t be responsible for the full extent of your injuries.
What Should You Do If You Can’t Continue Treatment?
If you’re struggling to keep up with medical treatment—due to cost, transportation, or anything else—talk to your attorney right away. We may be able to connect you with providers who offer treatment on a lien basis (meaning they get paid from your settlement), or find other solutions that protect both your health and your case.
If you’ve been in a car accident in New Hampshire, your medical treatment is not just important for your recovery—it’s also essential for your legal claim. Don’t give the insurance company a reason to undervalue your injuries. Follow your doctor’s orders, keep detailed records, and stay in close communication with your attorney.
Have questions about your case? Reach out today for a free consultation—we’re here to help.
Do I Need To Follow My Medical Treatment After a Car Accident?