The Law Offices of Bailey & Burke

A Proven Full Service Law Firm Since 1971
888-870-0925

The Law Offices of Bailey & Burke

A Proven Full Service Law Firm Since 1971
888-870-0925

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How important are x-rays to personal injury cases?

On Behalf of | Aug 29, 2022 | Personal Injury

When dealing with a personal injury case, x-rays are a diagnostic tool that could determine the extent of an individual’s injuries.

In the aftermath of a car accident, slip and fall or other traumatic event, x-rays are a precautionary measure to uncover potential fractures or broken bones. While important for identifying problems with the bone, these images do not reveal soft tissue damage.

Soft tissue injuries

Broken or fractured bones are some of the more visible injuries associated with an accident, but soft tissue injuries are just as common and cause considerable pain or limitations. A soft tissue injury occurs when trauma happens to ligaments, tendons or muscles. Most often, the trauma was a sudden but unexpected or uncontrolled movement. X-rays do not show tissue damage, which often leaves a victim confused concerning their injuries following an incident. Although an x-ray of the back, shoulders or neck is negative for a bone injury, it does not present the whole picture.

Supporting evidence for personal injuries

If a personal injury case goes to court, highlighting a negative x-ray is a classic defense technique to dispel the idea of damage and trauma to the victim. While it is an important tool, it is not the only one that can support evidence of a serious personal injury. Medical records, whether from a doctor, physical therapist or pharmacist, are equally important.

X-rays do not show neurological injuries, pain or trauma. This leaves them valuable but not indispensable to a personal injury case. It is best to have multiple forms of evidence supporting and documenting your personal injuries.

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