As a car accident lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona, Garrick McFadden of GAMESQ, PLC takes a unique approach to client care and injury treatment. Unlike many personal injury attorneys, we do not routinely recommend chiropractic care for our clients. This stance is based on years of experience, a deep understanding of the legal system, and a commitment to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients. Here’s why our black-owned law firm advocates for traditional medical care over chiropractic treatment for car accident victims.

Medical Care vs. Chiropractic Care: A Strategic Legal Decision

Jury Perception and Case Outcomes

One of the primary reasons we advise against chiropractic care is the perception of such treatment in the courtroom. Through extensive trial experience, we’ve observed that juries view chiropractic treatment less favorably than traditional medical care. Jurors often perceive individuals who receive care from medical doctors and undergo physical therapy as having more legitimate injuries compared to those who primarily see chiropractors.

This perception can significantly impact a case’s outcome. Medical records from licensed physicians and physical therapists carry more weight when presenting evidence of injuries and treatment to a jury. This can lead to higher compensation awards and better overall client case outcomes.

Financial Benefits for Clients

Our approach is also financially beneficial for our clients. In Arizona, the law does not consider insurance rates when calculating damages. This means that clients can often keep more of their settlement money if they use their health insurance to cover medical treatment.

Here’s how it works:

1. Clients use their health insurance for medical treatment, including doctor visits and physical therapy.
2. They pay their regular co-pays and deductibles.
3. When the case settles, the health insurance company may have a right to reimbursement (subrogation), which is often negotiable.
4. The negotiated reimbursement amount is typically much less than what would be owed to a chiropractor who is treated on a lien basis.

This approach allows our clients to receive necessary medical care while maximizing their potential settlement.

The Drawbacks of Chiropractic Care in Personal Injury Cases

Treatment on a Lien Basis

Many chiropractors who work with car accident victims offer treatment on a lien basis. This means they agree to provide care without upfront payment, instead placing a lien on the potential settlement. While this may seem beneficial initially, it can lead to several issues:

1. Higher overall treatment costs
2. Pressure to continue treatment beyond what’s medically necessary
3. A larger portion of the settlement goes to medical providers rather than the client

Limited Scope of Treatment

While skilled in their field, chiropractors have a limited scope of practice. They cannot prescribe medication, order certain diagnostic tests, or perform surgeries. This limitation can be problematic if a client has injuries that require more comprehensive medical intervention.

Documentation and Expert Testimony

In personal injury cases, thorough medical documentation is crucial. Medical doctors typically provide more detailed and comprehensive records of injuries, treatment plans, and prognoses. These records are often more persuasive in negotiations with insurance companies and in court.

Additionally, if expert testimony is needed, juries and judges generally view medical doctors as more credible witnesses. Their broader medical knowledge and ability to speak to a wide range of potential complications and long-term effects can significantly strengthen a case.

Our Commitment to Client Well-being and Case Success

At GAMESQ, PLC, our primary goal is to ensure our clients receive the best possible care and achieve the most favorable legal outcomes. By recommending traditional medical care over chiropractic treatment, we aim to:

1. Ensure clients receive comprehensive medical evaluations and appropriate treatment
2. Strengthen the legal case with robust medical documentation
3. Improve the likelihood of favorable settlements or jury verdicts
4. Maximize the amount of compensation clients can keep after their case is resolved

The Importance of Proper Medical Care After a Car Accident

Understanding that every injury is unique is crucial, and proper medical evaluation is essential following a car accident. We advise our clients to:

1. Seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if injuries seem minor
2. Follow through with all recommended treatments and follow-up appointments
3. Keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, and how the injuries affect daily life

By following these steps and working with traditional medical providers, clients create a clear and credible record of their injuries and recovery process. This documentation is invaluable in building a strong personal injury case.

Conclusion: A Unique Approach for Better Outcomes

As a black-owned law firm committed to serving our community, GAMESQ, PLC takes pride in offering strategic, client-focused legal representation. Our stance on chiropractic care versus traditional medical treatment is just one example of how we leverage our experience and knowledge to benefit our clients.

By recommending medical doctors and physical therapists over chiropractors, we aim to:

1. Improve the credibility of our clients’ injury claims
2. Increase the likelihood of favorable case outcomes
3. Ensure clients receive comprehensive medical care
4. Maximize the financial benefits for our clients

While this approach may differ from that of many other personal injury firms, we believe it offers the best path to recovery – both physically and financially – for car accident victims in Phoenix, Arizona.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, trust GAMESQ, PLC to guide you towards the most effective treatment and strongest legal strategy. Our commitment to your well-being and case success sets us apart as a premier choice for personal injury representation in Phoenix.