The treating doctor typically knows his or her patient for a period of years. Over that time, he knows the signs and symptoms normal for that particular patient, and any pre-existing medical history that the patient has been dealing with.

Many times a pre-existing medical condition can exacerbate or complicate the healing of an injury suffered in an accident. It’s critical for an experienced injury lawyer to find this out. Additionally, the client’s doctor is in an excellent position to discuss how a particular injury may affect a client’s future earning or vocational capacity.

Finally, by meeting ahead of time with the doctor, the attorney will be able to gauge how clearly the doctor communicates and whether he or she can clearly convey the aftereffects of an injury to a jury. If not, the attorney can try to locate a physician who is a better communicator so the client’s case can be presented effectively.

It’s also critical for the attorney to learn if the doctor will not meet with him or her ahead of time. A doctor who refuses to meet with a patient’s attorney can cause irreparable harm to a client’s case. This happens frequently with Kaiser where, even though an attorney offers to pay them for their time, the doctors refuse to meet with their patient’s attorney.

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento injury attorney and you can call me anytime at 916.921.6400 or 800.404.5400 for free, friendly advice.