Of course, many injuries from automobile collisions are severe. But, when the accident is a “minor impact collision,” studies have shown that occupants are unlikely to suffer longstanding injuries. The treatment and length of the open or unresolved claim, however, can be protracted and may involve plaintiff counsel.

Bruises, after all, heal quickly. Psychological factors, in fact, might be the reason behind most complaints of chronic pain after a minor collision according to a report about the biomechanics of minor automobile accidents. Interestingly, researchers have found that claimants complaining of whiplash get better more quickly if they don't have access to compensation for their pain and suffering.

As you review records from a minor crash, there are plenty of red flags that could signal big problems.

Here are 10 red flags to look out for.

1. No damage, significant injuries

The vehicle suffered very little damage, but the patient complains of significant injuries – or offers multiple variations of physical complaints.

2. Extended care without assessment

The patient seeks extended periods of chiropractic care, physical therapy, acupuncture and pain center treatments before seeking help from an orthopedist, an evaluation from a neurologist or an assessment from another medical specialist.

Lack of improvement is a big RED flag.

3. Ongoing treatment, no specialist

The patient undergoes ongoing treatment from a family practitioner or primary care physician, but does not seek treatment from a specialist.

4. MRIs, CT scans

The patient undergoes high-level diagnostics immediately. Remember: An MRI, a CT scan and similar tests should be done to confirm or rule out a condition – not as part of a fishing expedition.

5. Prior problems

If a patient undergoes surgery or is hospitalized after a minor collision, it may be an indicator of prior health issues or problems or conditions that pre-date the accident.

6. Compare, contrast

Compare the billing statements against the narrative records. Missing records are a red flag.

7. Examination required

Carefully review the mechanism of injury throughout the medical records. Any ongoing changes and embellishments are a red flag.

8. Unusual injuries

Shoulders and wrists are usually not injured in a minor collision. If there was no head trauma, any alleged neurological, cognitive and learning losses should be thoroughly investigated.

9. Lack of advanced treatments

If injections, discograms and other more advanced treatments and diagnostics weren't ordered, it's likely the injuries were minor. Doctors try to avoid these tests and treatments as they carry potential risks and complications. Additionally, advanced treatments should be supported by diagnostics and objective findings.

10. Degenerative findings

If radiologic studies found significant degenerative issues, these evolved before the motor vehicle accident because of old age or other factors. Exacerbation or aggravation can occur, but there should be a return to the medical baseline.

Other factors to consider

As you review a case or claim from a minor motor vehicle collision, be sure to follow the providers through the entire medical records. Know who they are and how they participated in the care. Track the dates of the diagnostics and understand whether they were ordered pre date of loss or injury.

And, as the nation faces an epidemic of opioid addiction, keep an eye on prescriptions. Review medication lists from all providers, especially records from the hospital emergency department and outside pharmacies. Was the patient already taking medications that might indicate existing problems? Is an opioid addiction in play?

Medical records can reveal plenty about the severity of a person's injuries after a car crash. And, if the vehicle received only minor or minimal damage, a trained eye can uncover the discrepancies that would rule out a major injury.

Red flags and savings can usually be found in all cases if you just know where and how to look!

Kari Williamson, BS, RN, LNCC, CCM ([email protected]) is the president of MKC Medical Management, and works with attorneys, insurance examiners and others within the medical-legal-insurance space to better manage and understand claim issues.