After a car crash, slip and fall, or any serious injury in Texas, one of the first things you are told to do is seek medical treatment. What many injury victims do not realize, however, is that every conversation you have with your doctor becomes part of the medical record. These records are not just used to guide your treatment. They are also used by insurance companies, defense attorneys, and even juries to determine whether your personal injury claim is credible.
Saying the wrong thing, downplaying your symptoms, or omitting key details can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Your Medical Records Become Legal Evidence
When you file a personal injury claim in Texas, your medical history becomes a central piece of evidence. Insurance companies and defense lawyers will carefully examine your records, looking for inconsistencies. If your report to the emergency room nurse says you had “mild pain,” but weeks later you claim that the pain was severe from day one, it may raise red flags. Similarly, if you fail to mention that you hit your head during the crash, that omission could be used to challenge a later diagnosis of a traumatic brain injury.
Doctors rely on what you say to diagnose and treat you. But the way those statements are written in your chart often carries more weight than you think. These notes can either support your case or cast doubt on your injuries, depending on how accurately and consistently you describe what you are feeling.
Inconsistent Statements Can Damage Your Credibility
The strength of a personal injury claim often comes down to how believable your story is. If the insurance company sees conflicting information in your medical records, they may argue that your injuries are exaggerated or unrelated to the accident. This can lead to lower settlement offers or even a denial of the claim.
Common examples of statements that can cause problems include:
Saying “I’m fine” or “It’s not that bad” when you are actually in pain.
Forgetting to mention a body part that later becomes a focus of treatment.
Describing your pain differently to different doctors.
Failing to disclose pre-existing conditions or prior injuries.
These inconsistencies are not always intentional, but they are often used against you. That is why it is crucial to be honest, specific, and consistent when communicating with any healthcare provider.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Protect Your Case from the Start
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we regularly see cases where a simple misstatement or omission in a medical record is used to reduce the value of a claim. When we represent clients, we help them understand what to expect from medical visits and how to communicate their symptoms effectively. We also work closely with medical professionals to make sure your injuries are fully documented and supported by strong, consistent evidence.
If you have been injured in an accident in Houston, do not try to handle your recovery and your claim on your own. Contact our Harris Countypersonal injury attorneys today at 713-637-4560 or online to schedule a complimentary consultation. Let us help protect your rights and ensure your voice is accurately reflected in every part of your case.
About The Author
Steve Hollingsworth
Steve Hollingsworth is a seasoned trial attorney with extensive experience across Texas. After beginning his career as a felony prosecutor, Steve went on to represent major insurance companies before focusing on helping individuals injured in car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability cases. Founder of his own firm, Steve is committed to providing personalized, client-focused legal representation to ensure justice for those he serves.
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Testimonials
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
Rossana Former Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
Anonymous Former Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G. Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
Sara Former Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
Andrew Former Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V. Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts .
overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H. Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law.
He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E. Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T. Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury.
His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H. From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him.
He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant.
My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome.
I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
Jessie Former Client
About Hollingsworth Law Firm
Our aggressive personal injury trial attorneys at the Hollingsworth Law Firm are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. If you are the victim of an automobile accident, airplane accident, workplace injury or other catastrophic injury, you need legal advice from a personal injury attorney with proven results you can trust. Our dedicated legal team is proud to represent clients across the state of Texas. WE WILL START FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS TODAY!
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