How Gaps in Treatment May Affect Your Injury Claim

Legally reviewed by:
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
July 7, 2023

Whether you suffered an injury in a car accident or slipped and fell on a restaurant’s slick floor, you will likely need several medical appointments during your treatment. While seeking prompt care should be an accident victim’s number one priority, several unavoidable circumstances might cause an individual to delay their care. Unfortunately, the insurance company may use any gaps in treatment to offer you the smallest amount of compensation possible for your injuries. 

A talented personal injury attorney can help you by building your claim around your treatment gaps and protecting the total value of your claim. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford, P.C., we have 65 years of experience helping clients like you recover the maximum compensation possible for their losses. When you retain our services, we will become aggressive and tireless advocates for your rights and interests. 

What Is a Treatment Gap and How Can It Affect Your Personal Injury Claim?

A treatment gap is an extended period between doctor visits or treatments. While there are many reasons an individual may have gaps between treatment, the timing of these gaps fall into two distinct categories. The two main types of treatment gaps include the following:

  • A gap between the date of the accident and the first doctor visit
  • A gap between the initial doctor visit and follow-up appointments

While many Pennsylvanians may assume the insurance company has their best interests in mind, this is not always the case. The insurance adjuster will often seek different ways to deny or devalue your claim. The adjuster may use a gap in treatment to allege that your injury is less severe than you claim. When you partner with a skilled attorney, they can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your rights and the total value of your claim.  

Legitimate Reasons for a Gap in Treatment

Since gaps in treatment can be used against you in your claim, it is essential to avoid them as much as possible. However, there are many legitimate and unavoidable reasons for a gap in treatment. Some valid reasons for a treatment gap include the following:

  • An illness or injury that prevents you from seeing a doctor
  • An unrelated surgery, death of a loved one, or other significant life events that could delay treatment
  • Waiting to see a specialist

This is by no means an exhaustive list, and there are many other legitimate reasons an accident victim may delay treatment. Your lawyer will review every aspect of your case to build a strong claim that considers your unique circumstances. 

Consult With a Talented Personal Injury Attorney at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford, PC. 

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford, P.C., our award-winning attorneys understand the stress treatment gaps can cause as you recover from a personal injury. We are committed to making the claims process as stress-free as possible as we tailor our approach to your unique needs. Our dedicated attorneys have a proven track record of helping accident victims in Pennsylvania recover the maximum compensation for their accident claims. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about how one of our attorneys can help you, call us today at (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form.


Legally reviewed by:
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
July 7, 2023
Established in 1952 by Irwin S. Rubin, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. boasts over 65 years of experience serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. Renowned for its commitment to ethical representation, the firm has garnered prestigious accolades, including being named the "Best Law Firm" for its outstanding legal defense work by U.S. News & World Report. Their team of seasoned attorneys, recognized as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, brings unparalleled expertise to a wide range of legal matters, ensuring exceptional representation for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.