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What Is Maximum Medical Improvement in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

maximum medical improvement

Have you been injured in an accident? If so, you may have heard the term “maximum medical improvement,” or MMI, thrown around.

But what does it really mean?

In the world of personal injury law, understanding MMI is crucial to the success of your case.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what maximum medical improvement is in a personal injury lawsuit and why it matters. We’ll discuss how MMI is defined, how it’s determined, and its importance in settlement negotiations and trials.

At The Jones Firm in Ohio, we understand how overwhelming and confusing the legal process can be for those who have been injured. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing our clients with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their cases.

If you’ve been injured and need legal representation, don’t hesitate to contact us at The Jones Firm. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex world of personal injury law and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Maximum Medical Improvement Defined

Maximum medical improvement (MMI) is the point at which an injured person has recovered as much as possible from their injury, and their condition is unlikely to improve any further with additional medical treatment. MMI is an important concept in personal injury cases because it serves as a benchmark for determining the extent of your injuries and the value of your claim.

In legal terms, MMI is the point at which an injured person has reached a “stable and permanent” condition. Determining when someone has reached MMI is typically the treating physician’s responsibility, who will evaluate medical records and conduct a physical examination to determine the extent of injuries and potential for recovery.

Why MMI Is important in Personal Injury Lawsuits

Maximum medical improvement (MMI) is a crucial factor in personal injury lawsuits because it plays a significant role in determining the value of your claim.

Once you have reached MMI, your medical condition is considered stable and permanent, and future medical expenses can be estimated more accurately. The determination of MMI also affects the calculation of damages, including compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.

How MMI Is Determined

A physician will consider several factors when determining MMI, including the nature and severity of your injuries, the medical treatment you have received, and your potential for further recovery.

To establish MMI, your physician will typically conduct a thorough medical examination and review your medical records, including imaging studies, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic tests. Your physician may also consult with other medical specialists to obtain a more comprehensive evaluation of your injuries.

Objective medical evidence is also used to establish MMI, including measurements of the person’s range of motion, strength, and other physical functions.

It’s important to note that the determination of MMI is not an exact science and can vary depending on the circumstances of each case. However, it is crucial to have a Columbus personal injury lawyer who can work with medical professionals to establish MMI and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

MMI and Settlement Negotiations

Once you reach MMI, your medical condition is considered stable and permanent, and future medical expenses can be estimated more accurately. This allows your attorney to negotiate a settlement based on the actual value of your claim rather than a speculative estimate.

Understanding MMI and its impact on personal injury settlement amounts is essential for ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Contact The Jones Firm Today

If you have been injured in an accident, contact The Jones Firm today. Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys has years of experience helping clients navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Don’t wait—call us today to schedule a free case review and learn more about how we can help you.

Author Bio

Geoff Jones is the CEO and Managing Partner of The Jones Firm, a personal injury law firm in Columbus, Ohio. With years of experience in personal injury law, he has zealously represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including car accidents, medical malpractice, slip and falls, wrongful death, and other cases.

Geoff received his Juris Doctor from the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and is a member of the Columbus Bar Association. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars for 2022-2023.

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