Medical Records in Bicycle Accident Cases: What You Need

Medical records are the backbone of your bicycle accident claim. They document your injuries, treatment, and prognosis—without them, your case is significantly weakened.

What to Document

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At Each Visit

• All symptoms (even minor ones)

• How accident happened

• How injuries affect daily life

• Pain levels

• Missed work

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Ongoing

• Follow all treatment recommendations

• Attend every appointment

• Report new or worsening symptoms

Types of Medical Records

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Emergency Records

• Ambulance reports

• ER intake

• Initial imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI)

• ER physician notes

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Hospital Records

• Admission notes

• Surgery reports

• Nursing notes

• Discharge summary

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Follow-Up Records

• Specialist consultations

• Physical therapy notes

• Prescription records

• Progress notes

How to Obtain Records

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Directly from Providers Submit written request with ID. May take 2-4 weeks.

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Through Your Attorney Attorney can request on your behalf with signed authorization.

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Online Portals Many providers offer patient portal access.

Common Issues

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Pre-Existing Conditions Insurance companies will try to blame injuries on prior conditions. Your attorney can address this with medical expert testimony.

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Gaps in Treatment Gaps suggest you weren't that hurt. Follow treatment plans and don't skip appointments.

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Exaggeration Consistent, honest reporting is crucial. Inconsistencies destroy credibility.