Maximum Medical Improvement & Your Personal Injury Claim
There are many factors to consider when settling a personal injury claim, and one of the most important is your medical status. Maximum medical improvement (MMI) is a crucial aspect of your medical status that can greatly impact your claim for compensation.
You need to understand what maximum medical improvement is, how it affects personal injury claims, and why you should wait until you reach maximum medical improvement before settling your injury claim. Our Seattle personal injury lawyers at Emerald Law Group can assist you with filing your claim and will help you make informed decisions throughout the claims process, including when to settle your claim.
What is Maximum Medical Improvement?
Washington law (WAC 296-20-01002) defines maximum medical improvement as the point in a person’s medical treatment where no fundamental or marked changes in their condition can be expected. In other words, it means that your condition has improved as much as possible, and additional treatment is very unlikely to improve your condition any further.
It is the goal of all medical treatment to reach this point, and in some cases, it may take weeks, months, or even years to achieve.
How Does Maximum Medical Improvement Affect Personal Injury Claims?
When you file a personal injury claim, your medical status plays a crucial role in the outcome of your case. Maximum medical improvement is important because it determines the full extent of your injuries. By waiting until you reach MMI, you are able to accurately determine the full extent of your injuries, including any long-term effects, ongoing treatment needs, and potential medical expenses. This information is critical when seeking compensation for your injuries.
Why Should You Wait Until You Reach Maximum Medical Improvement?
It is essential to wait until you reach MMI before settling your personal injury claim, as settling before reaching MMI can result in a lower compensation amount. If you settle your claim before reaching MMI, you may end up underestimating the full extent of your injuries and the long-term effects they may have on your life. This means you may not receive compensation for all of your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Happens if You Settle Before Reaching Maximum Medical Improvement?
If you settle your personal injury claim before reaching MMI, you run the risk of receiving a settlement that does not accurately reflect the full extent of your injuries. This means you may not be compensated for all of your expenses, losses, and damages. Additionally, if your condition worsens after the settlement, you will not be able to seek additional compensation. That is why it is crucial to wait until you reach MMI before settling your personal injury claim.
Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
Reaching maximum medical improvement is crucial for accurately determining the full extent of your injuries. Never settle your claim before reaching MMI and always work with a skilled lawyer who can help guide you through the process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our lawyers at Emerald Law Group to discuss when it is appropriate to settle your claim. Call 206-826-5160 for a free case evaluation.
Source:
app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=296-20-01002
