Yesterday I was talking to a client and we discussed how her treatment was progressing. While she was feeling a little relief thanks to the physical therapy, the doctor order an MRI. She was asking me what an MRI was, why it was needed and how it was different that the x-ray we took earlier on the case. MRIs are frequently used in personal injury cases and their role as medical evidence cannot be overstated.
What is an MRI?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s soft tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, ligaments, and joints. This technology is particularly useful in personal injury cases, where assessing the extent of injuries sustained can be complex and contested.
One of the primary applications of MRI in personal injury cases is the detection of soft tissue injuries. These injuries, often invisible to the naked eye, can include damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the spinal cord. MRIs can reveal the presence of tears, inflammation, or herniations that may not be apparent through traditional X-rays or other diagnostic methods.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are another critical area where MRIs play a pivotal role. In cases of head trauma or concussions, MRI scans can identify bleeding, swelling, or structural abnormalities in the brain, helping medical experts and legal professionals establish a direct link between the injury and the incident in question.
Use throughout Your Personal Injury Case
Moreover, MRIs can document the progression of injuries over time, providing a comprehensive record of the injury’s development and its impact on our client’s health and well-being. This longitudinal data can be essential in personal injury cases, helping to establish causation and assess the damages suffered. For instance, you may say that your leg is hurting after an accident. An MRI which shows actual soft tissue damage goes a LONG way in helping you get the money you need from the insurance company. AAs her attorney, we can rely on these images to demonstrate the severity of injuries and their long-term consequences, ultimately aiding in her case.
May times, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful tool in personal injury cases, as it offers an in-depth view of the extent of bodily harm that may not be immediately evident. MRIs can detect soft tissue injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and provide valuable longitudinal data to strengthen personal injury claims. If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need to speak with an attorney about your injuries give us a call at 504-434-7000 for a free consultation.