Can I Switch Doctors While Pursuing a Personal Injury Case?

There are several reasons why you might want to find a new medical provider in the middle of a personal injury case. Whether your current physician lacks the expertise to manage your diagnosis or if you simply feel uncomfortable with the care you are receiving, there are valid explanations for the change.

A savvy Montgomery personal injury attorney would ensure you understand the impact of switching doctors while pursuing a personal injury case. Learn more about how this could affect your claim and reach out to our firm for 30+ years of experienced guidance in personal injury claims.

Can You Start Seeing a New Doctor During a Case?

In Alabama, you do have the legal right to switch doctors while pursuing a personal injury claim. However, changing providers without warning could negatively impact your claim because insurance companies may accuse you of “doctor shopping.”

This phrase means that you intend to search for a doctor who will give a more favorable diagnosis or inflate your payout, but these actions are often rooted in an insurance company’s desire to deflect blame and minimize settlements. To protect your personal injury claim while switching doctors, consider a few factors to protect your rights.

Consult With Your Attorney First

Before making any changes to your health care provider, discuss your concerns with your personal injury lawyer. This is an essential step to ensure you continue to receive consistent guidance that mitigates the negative impact of an insurance company trying to use the change against you.

Maintain Consistent Records

Ensure your new doctor is fully briefed on your medical history and that there are no gaps in your treatment records. Your attorney relies on these medical documents to prove your damages.

Have a Valid Medical Reason

Switching is best done if you have a good reason. So, if you are relocating, need a specialized doctor for a severe injury, or have followed your current doctor’s treatment plan for an extended period with no medical improvement, the change likely would not affect your ability to recover your damages.

At the Law Offices of Dwayne L. Brown, we have connected with renowned medical experts with decades of experience treating personal injury victims. If you are interested in seeking treatment from another doctor, we can help you connect with experienced professionals.

Are There Unique Situations Where Switching Doctors May Be a Bad Choice?

If your case is being filed as a Workers’ Compensation Claim rather than a standard civil personal injury case, your employer (or their insurance carrier) generally has the right to select the initial Authorized Treating Physician (ATP).

If you want to change doctors in an Alabama workers’ comp case, you must formally request it or utilize the state’s “panel of four” rule to choose from a list of approved physicians. While our firm can only help you with third-party injury claims, it is important to know your legal rights and options depending on what kind of injury claim you are pursuing.

Contact Us to Ask Questions About Switching Doctors During a Personal Injury Case

When you are considering switching doctors while pursuing a personal injury case, reach out to the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown for trusted guidance with your best interests in mind. Attorney Brown has successfully represented clients like you in Montgomery for 31 years and counting.

If you want an attorney who is focused on communication and accessibility, you have come to the right place. As a client, you can call or text Attorney Brown directly for updates on your case at any time. Let our client-centric team assist you with the honesty and transparency you deserve. Contact us today for help.