Medical Referrals Can Be Risky, Says Tustin Car Accident Lawyer

People who have been in a car accident face a number of critical decisions. A skilled Tustin car accident lawyer will tell you that some car crash victims are directed toward certain doctors, chiropractors or other medical practitioners. There are times when this is acceptable, but there are also instances when steering clients toward a doctor can jeopardize a client's case. Before looking into this practice, an overview of car accidents in Tustin, California may help.

Car Accidents in Tustin are a Daily Tragedy

The California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) reported that in 2006, two people were killed and 392 were injured in Tustin car collisions. Impaired drivers caused 30 car crash injuries. A total of 24 pedestrians and 20 bicyclists were injured in car accidents. Motorcycle accidents killed one and injured 21. In 2007, one car accident caused one death. In 2008, three car accidents resulted in three fatalities.

When It's Acceptable for Lawyers to Refer a Doctor

Seasoned Tustin car collision lawyers know that lawyers who refer doctors or other medical professionals to their clients walk on thin ice. The mere appearance of impropriety can be a problem if the doctor so recommended ultimately benefits from a trial's outcome. That said, there are instances where lawyers can legitimately recommend a medical professional. One example would be if a client specifically asks for a recommendation, and if the lawyer has allowed the client to evaluate other payment options and taken prudent steps to prevent the client from signing a medical lien (medical bills to be paid from funds recovered for an injury). At this point, the lawyer has done his duty and allowed the client to choose a doctor without the lawyer's influence.

Another example in which a car accident lawyer may recommend a specific medical professional would be in the case of an expert witness. A lawyer may suggest a certain doctor to serve as a medical expert to explain and clarify specific details of an injury to a judge or jury. Of course, the medical expert so retained should not be allowed to benefit from settlement funds, as his or her testimony would be challenged and jeopardized.

Need Help? Seek the Advice of a Car Accident Lawyer

A trusted Tustin car crash lawyer can be of help in these and other legal matters. The best lawyers offer no charge, no pressure consultations. They can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your losses.

For more guidance, please read "The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Personal Injury Claim" by California personal injury attorney John Bisnar. The book is free to accident victims--just go to www.BestAttorneyBooks.com to get a copy sent to you, or you can buy one at www.Amazon.com. Please call our Orange County car accident lawyers at 800-561-4887.

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