How does getting an MRI and follow-up results affect the progress of my accident claim? – North Carolina

Short Answer

In North Carolina, an MRI and the follow-up visit usually slow down settlement discussions in the short term but can strengthen an accident claim once the results and treatment plan are clear. Insurers typically want the MRI report, the provider’s interpretation, and a plan for what happens next (therapy, injections, surgery, or release from care) before they seriously evaluate the claim. The claim can also stall if the law firm cannot request records because signed medical authorizations have not been returned.

Understanding the Problem

In a North Carolina accident claim, what happens to the claim’s progress when diagnostic imaging has been completed but the follow-up appointment to review results has not happened yet? The decision point is whether the claim can move forward meaningfully before the MRI report is obtained and the treating provider connects the findings to the accident and outlines next steps. The issue often comes up when a law firm is still waiting on signed authorizations needed to request medical records and bills.

Apply the Law

North Carolina injury claims are built on proof: what injuries occurred, what medical care was reasonable and necessary, and how the accident caused the need for that care. An MRI can be important evidence because it may show objective findings (or rule out certain injuries), but the MRI alone usually is not the “finish line.” The follow-up visit matters because it documents the provider’s interpretation, diagnosis, restrictions, and treatment plan, which insurers use to evaluate both causation and damages. Separately, medical providers and certain payors may have rights to be paid back from any recovery, so accurate records and itemized billing matter during settlement.

Key Requirements

• Documented injury and treatment: Records should show the symptoms, exam findings, MRI report, and what care was recommended after the results were reviewed.
• Clear connection to the accident (causation): The chart should reflect that the provider considered the accident history and linked the condition and treatment to that event (or explained other causes).
• Complete records and billing support: The claim typically needs the MRI facility records, the ordering provider’s notes, follow-up notes, and itemized charges so the demand package is accurate and liens can be addressed.

What the Statutes Say

• N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52 (Three-year limitations period) – sets a three-year deadline that commonly applies to personal injury lawsuits, which can affect how long a claim can remain in “records gathering” mode before suit must be filed to protect the claim.
• N.C. Gen. Stat. § 44-49 (Medical provider liens) – allows certain medical providers to assert liens on personal injury recoveries, making it important to collect itemized statements and lien notices during settlement.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: The MRI is a key piece of documentation, but the claim usually cannot be evaluated well until the MRI report is obtained and the follow-up visit records explain what the findings mean and what treatment is next. Because the follow-up appointment is not yet scheduled, the medical picture may still be “in progress,” which often delays a demand or meaningful negotiations. Separately, if signed authorizations have not been provided, the law firm may not be able to request the MRI report and related records promptly, which can also slow the claim’s progress.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: The injured person’s attorney typically requests records and bills. Where: Requests go to the MRI facility and the ordering/treating providers (and sometimes prior providers for comparison) in North Carolina. What: Signed HIPAA-compliant medical authorizations and record requests for the MRI images/report, radiology interpretation, office notes, and itemized billing. When: As soon as possible after treatment occurs; delays often happen if authorizations are not signed and returned.
2. Follow-up documentation: After the results visit, the provider’s plan (continued conservative care, referral, injections, or surgical consult) becomes part of the record. Insurers commonly wait for this because it clarifies whether treatment is ongoing and whether additional costs are likely.
3. Demand/negotiation stage: Once the firm has the MRI report, follow-up notes, and a stable treatment plan (or a clear next step), the firm can usually assemble a more accurate demand package, address any liens, and negotiate from a clearer medical record.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• “MRI done” is not the same as “MRI explained”: An MRI report without the treating provider’s interpretation and plan can leave open questions about diagnosis, work restrictions, and whether the findings are related to the accident.
• Gaps in care: Long delays in scheduling the follow-up can be used to argue the condition was not serious or was caused by something else. If delays are unavoidable, consistent documentation and rescheduling efforts help keep the record coherent.
• Missing authorizations: If the firm cannot obtain records because releases are not signed, the claim may stall even if treatment is ongoing. Promptly completing and returning authorizations usually speeds up record collection.
• Liens and payback claims: Medical providers and certain payors may assert reimbursement rights that must be identified and handled before settlement funds are distributed, which is another reason complete billing and lien information matters.

Conclusion

In North Carolina, an MRI and the follow-up visit usually push an accident claim into a “wait for medical clarity” phase: insurers want the MRI report plus the provider’s results visit and treatment plan before valuing the claim. The claim can also slow down if the law firm cannot request records without signed authorizations. A practical next step is to sign and return the medical-record authorizations so the firm can request the MRI report and follow-up records well before the three-year filing deadline under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52.

Talk to a Wrongful Death Attorney

If an accident claim is waiting on MRI results, follow-up appointments, or medical-record authorizations, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help explain the process, gather the right records, and track deadlines. Call us today at [919-341-7055].

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.