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List of
Chapters
Chapter
1 Interviewing
the Client and Filing the Case
Chapter 2 Anatomy of the Neck and Back
Chapter 3 Diagnosing Neck and Back Injuries
Chapter 4 Treating Neck and Back Injuries
Chapter 5
Evaluating Permanent Impairment
Chapter 6 Investigation of the Case
Chapter 7 The Physician
Chapter 8 Dealing with Defense Team: Insurers, Defense Counsel and
Impartial Medical Experts
Chapter 9 Pretrial Procedures
Chapter 10
Preparing for Trial and Appeal
Table of Abbreviations
Index of Forms and Illustrations
Table of Cases
Table of Statutes
Bibliography
Index
Table of Contents
Chapter
1 Interviewing the Client and Filing the Case
I. Initial Interview
A.
Preparation
§
1:10 Introduction
§ 1:20 Surveillance
§ 1:30 Soft Tissue Injuries
§ 1:40 Client Morale
§ 1:50 Client Confidence
§ 1:60 Using Knowledge of Anatomy
§ 1:70 Fee Arrangements and Agreements
§ 1:80 Sample Client Letter
B. Obtaining Information
§ 1:90 Introduction
§ 1:100 Sample Client Interview Form
§ 1:110 Authorizations
§ 1:110.10 [Reserved]
§ 1:110.20 Federal Tax Records
§ 1:110.30 State Tax Records
§ 1:110.40 Driving Record
§ 1:110.50 Social Security Records
§ 1:110.60 Veterans Administration Records
§ 1:110.70 Workers’ Compensation Records
§ 1:110.80 Criminal/Arrest
§ 1:110.90 Employment Records
§ 1:110.100 Education Records
§ 1:110.110 Insurance Records
§ 1:120 Sample Change of Circumstances Form
§ 1:130 Checklist: File Organization
II.
Special Problems
§
1:140 Counterclaims
§ 1:150 Problem Client
§ 1:150.10 Criminal Record
§ 1:150.20 Factitious Complaints
§ 1:150.30 Malingering
§ 1:150.31 Neuropsychological Perspectives on Malingering
§ 1:150.40 Refuting Claims of Malingering
§ 1:160 Weak Liability
§ 1:170 Problems of Proof
§ 1:180 Problems in Recovery
§ 1:190 Prior Injuries and Pre-Existing Illnesses
§ 1:190.10 Trying the Case as a New Injury
§ 1:190.20 Susceptibility to New Injury
§ 1:190.30 Aggravation of Pre-Existing Injury
§ 1:190.40 Use During Opening Statement
§ 1:190.50 Dealing with the Psychology of Injury
§ 1:200 Unsympathetic Treating Physician
§ 1:210 Referring Client to Specialist
§ 1:211 Eliminating Compensation for Pain and Suffering May Affect
Insurance Claims for
Whiplash Injuries
§ 1:212 No-Fault Auto Insurance Limits Non-Economic Damages
§ 1:212.1 Traditional Tort System Compared
§ 1:212.2 No-Fault “Threshold”
§ 1:212.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of No-Fault System
III.
Establishing Damages
A. Types
of Damages
§
1:220 Introduction
§ 1:230 General and Special Damages
§ 1:231 Punitive Damages
§ 1:240 Consortium Claims
§ 1:250 Out-of-Pocket Damages
B. Documenting Damages
1. Client Diary
§ 1:260 Introduction
§ 1:270 Documenting Pain and Suffering
§ 1:280 Method of Presentation
§ 1:290 Special Instructions
§ 1:291 The AMA Guides to the
Evaluation of Permanent Impairment and the Personal Injury Diary
§ 1:291.1 Philosophy of New Guides:
AMA Guides to the Evaluation of
Permanent Impairment
Fifth Edition
§ 1:292 The Electronic Diary
§ 1:293 Functional Status Tests
2. Checklist and Forms
§ 1:300 Checklist: Damage Evaluation
§ 1:310 Form: Tracking Health Care Costs
§ 1:320 Form: Medical, Psychological and Psychiatric Expense List
§ 1:321 Form: Home Health Care Expense List
IV.
Drafting Complaints
§
1:330 Selecting Defendants
§ 1:340 Selecting Causes of Action
§ 1:341 Statutes of Limitations and Borrowing Statutes
§ 1:342 List of State Borrowing Statutes
§ 1:350 Checklist
§ 1:360 Sample Complaints
§ 1:360.10 Automobile Accident Case
§ 1:360.20 Automobile Accident Resulting in Closed Head Injury
§ 1:360.21 Automobile Accident Resulting in Whiplash Injury
§ 1:360.22 Automobile Accident – Federal Court – Driver Not
Wearing Glasses
§ 1:360.23 Complaint: Automobile Accident – Uninsured Motorist
§ 1:360.30 Product Liability Case
§ 1:360.40 Slip and Fall Case
§ 1:360.41 Slip and Fall Cases – Slip on Debris in Clothing Store
§ 1:360.42 Slip and Fall Case – Defective Stairs
§ 1:360.50 Assault Case Resulting in Soft Tissue and
Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome
§ 1:360.60 Soft Tissue Injury and Loss of Consortium Claim
§ 1:360.70 Assistance of Other Experts in Proving Mild Traumatic
Brain Injury
V.
Checklist
§
1:370 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
2 Anatomy of the Neck and Back
I. Spinal Column
A. Anatomy
§
2:10 Introduction
§ 2:20 Vertebrae
§ 2:30 Intervertebral Discs
§ 2:40 Ligaments
§ 2:50 Fascia
§ 2:60 Muscles
§ 2:61 Muscles of the Neck: Anatomic Limits, Innervation and Function
B. Injury
§ 2:70 Overview
II.
Nervous System
A. Anatomy
1.
Spinal Cord
§
2:80 Introduction
§ 2:90 Major Membranes
2. Nerve Roots
§ 2:100 Introduction
§ 2:110 Dermatomes and Myotomes
3. Relationship of Spinal Nerves and Intervertebral Discs
§ 2:120 Introduction
§ 2:121 Innervation
§ 2:130 Cervical Region
§ 2:131 Blood Supply to the Cervical Spine Column
§ 2:132 Cervical Radiculopathy
§ 2:140 Thoracic Region
§ 2:141 Brachial Plexus
§ 2:150 Lumbar Region
B. Injury
§ 2:160 Overview
III.
Checklist
§
2:170 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
3 Diagnosing Neck and Back Injuries
I. Examination
A.
Introduction
§
3:10 Overview
§ 3:20 Office Examination
§ 3:30 Emergency Room Examination
B. Objective Findings
1. Introduction
§ 3:40 Overview
§ 3:50 General Tests
2. Testing Individual Nerve Roots
§ 3:60 Overview and Checklist
§ 3:70 Motor Power
§ 3:80 Sensation
§ 3:90 Reflex
§ 3:100 Relating Disc Levels With Motor, Sensory and Reflex Deficits
§ 3:101 Signs and Tests Table
§ 3:102 Electrodiagnostic (EDX) Medicine
§ 3:103 Nerve Conduction Studies
§ 3:104 Needle Electromyography
§ 3:105 Evoked Potentials
C. Subjective Findings
§ 3:110 Overview
§ 3:120 Range of Motion (ROM)
§ 3:130 Valsalva Test
§ 3:140 Distraction Test
§ 3:150 Compression Test
§ 3:160 Lasegeu’s Test
§ 3:170 Straight Leg Raising Test (SLR)
§ 3:180 Bragard’s Test
§ 3:190 Fabere or Patrick Test
§ 3:200 Beevor’s Sign
§ 3:200.1 Nonorganic Signs are Unreliable as Screening Tool
D. Common Injuries and Diseases
1. Whiplash Injuries
§ 3:201 Clinical Presentation of Cervical Hyperextension Injuries
§ 3:210 Overview
§ 3:220 Biomechanics and Pathomechanics
§ 3:220.1 Whiplash Symptoms
§ 3:221 Descriptions of Low Back Problems
§ 3:222 Sprains and Strains
§ 3:222.1 Symptoms of a Neck Sprain
§ 3:230 Checklist: Sources of Pain
§ 3:231 Checklist: Causes of Low Back Pain
§ 3:232 Smoking and Back Pain
§ 3:233 Sacroiliac Joint Disease
§ 3:234 Blunt Trauma and Piriformis Syndrome
§ 3:240 Checklist: Injuries and Symptoms
§ 3:241 Injuries and Rear-End Collisions
§ 3:242 Injury-Producing Forces and Movements
§ 3:243 Injury Risk Factors
§ 3:244 The Superimposed Indirect Acceleration Injury
§ 3:245 Indirect Acceleration Injury Cases
§ 3:246 Mechanisms of Soft Tissue Injury in Motor Vehicle Accidents
§ 3:246.1 Mechanism of Injury in Cervical Hyperextension Cases
§ 3:246.2 Whiplash Syndrome: Brain Damage and Impaired Cognitive
Performance
§ 3:247 Checklist on Causes of Neck and Back Pain
§ 3:248 Postural Pain
§ 3:249 Clinical Classifications of Cervical Hyperextension Injuries
and Associated Disorders
2. Fractures and Other Disorders
§ 3:250 Overview
§ 3:260 Checklist of Fracture Types
§ 3:260.1 High Risk Fractures
§ 3:261 Craniocerebral, Cervical Spine and Spinal Cord Injuries
§ 3:262 Endocrinologic Disorders of the Cervical Spine
§ 3:263 Suppression of Vitamin K and Increased Risk of Bone Fractures
3. Temporomandibular Joint Pain Syndrome
§ 3:270 Introduction
§ 3:280 Anatomy
§ 3:290 Mechanism of Injury
§ 3:300 Symptoms
§ 3:310 Diagnosis
§ 3:320 Treatment
§ 3:321 Additional Treatments
4. Head Injuries
§ 3:330 Introduction
§ 3:340 Types of Damage
§ 3:350 Injury Absent Objective Signs
§ 3:360 Diagnosis of Head Injuries
§ 3:360.10 Anatomy
§ 3:360.20 Examination and Treatment
§ 3:360.30 Documenting Level of Consciousness
§ 3:360.40 Imaging Techniques
§ 3:360.50 Assistance of Neurosurgeon
§ 3:360.60 Assistance of Neuropsychologists
§ 3:370 Common Defense Tactics
5. Spinal Shock
§ 3:380 Overview
§ 3:381 Spinal Epidural Abscess
6. Discs
§ 3:390 Pre-Existing Disc Degeneration
§ 3:391 Relationship Between Disc Herniation and Degenerative Disc
Disease
§ 3:392 Smoking as a Causative Factor in Disc Degeneration
§ 3:400 Bulging Discs Versus Herniated Discs
§ 3:400.1 Bulging and Protruding Discs as Normal Variants
§ 3:400.2 Bulges, Extensions, Protrusions and Sequestrations
§ 3:401 Types of Herniated Discs
§ 3:402 Non-Mechanical Causes of Recurrent Pain
§ 3:403 Spinal Disk Abnormalities
§ 3:410 Defense Arguments
7. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
§ 3:420 Overview
§ 3:430 Diagnosis and Treatment
8. Piriformis Syndrome
§ 3:431 Overview
9. Chronic Compartment Syndrome (CCS)
§ 3:432 Overview
§ 3:433 Coccydynia
§ 3:434 Diagnosis of Coccydynia
§ 3:435 Conservative Treatment for Coccydynia
§ 3:436 Surgical Treatments for Coccydynia
II.
Diagnosis
A.
Introduction
§
3:440 Overview
§ 3:450 The Daubert Standard
§ 3:460 Daubert on Remand
§ 3:461 Daubert and Psychological Syndrome Evidence
§ 3:462 Daubert and Non-Scientific Evidence: The Kumho Tire
Case
§ 3:462.1 Kumho Tire, Daubert and the Federal Rules of
Evidence
§ 3:462.2 Daubert Hearings – Trial Judge Must Act as
“Gatekeeper” under Daubert
§ 3:462.3 Daubert and General Objections
§ 3:463 The Standard of Review on Daubert Rulings
§ 3:463.1 The Weisgram Case and Expert Testimony
§ 3:463.2 Surviving a Daubert/Kumho Tire Challenge
§ 3:464 Daubert and Treating Physicians
§ 3:465 Daubert and Fibromyalgia
§ 3:466 Daubert and the Differential Diagnosis
B. Diagnostic Studies
§ 3:470 X-Rays
§ 3:470.10 Limitations
§ 3:470.20 Foundation for Admission
§ 3:470.30 Checklist on X-Rays
§ 3:470.40 Sample Testimony of X-Ray Technician
§ 3:480 Electromyography (EMG)
§ 3:490 Tomography, CAT and CT Scans
§ 3:491 Risks and Limitations of CAT Scan
§ 3:492 Sample Testimony of Radiographer on CT Scan
§ 3:493 Preparation for CT Scanning
§ 3:494 Other Forms of Tomography: PETT, SPECT and EIT
§ 3:500 Myelograms
§ 3:510 Discogram
§ 3:520 Cervical Disc Distention Test
§ 3:530 Magnetic Resonance Imaging
§ 3:530.01 Principal Components of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Machine
§ 3:530.10 How MRI Works
§ 3:530.20 Advantages
§ 3:530.30 Limitations
§ 3:530.40 Conducting Test
§ 3:530.50 Interpretation
§ 3:530.60 Foundation for Admission
§ 3:530.70 Sample Testimony of Radiographer on MRIs
§ 3:530.80 Open-Sided MRI
§ 3:540 Thermography
§ 3:540.10 Liquid Crystal Thermography (“LCT”)
§
3:540.20 Electronic Thermography (“ET”)
§ 3:540.30 Proper Techniques
§ 3:540.40 Application in Soft Tissue Injury Cases
§ 3:540.50 Medical Acceptance
§ 3:540.60 Legal Acceptance
§ 3:540.70 Sample Foundation for Admission
§ 3:550 Other Diagnostic Tests
§ 3:550.10 Lumbar Puncture (“Spinal Tap”)
§ 3:550.20 Ultrasonography
§ 3:550.20.1 Quantitative Ultrasound
§ 3:550.21 Real-Time Sonography
§ 3:550.30 Arthrography
§ 3:550.40 Angiography
§ 3:550.50 Bone Scan
§ 3:550.51 Osteoporosis and Bone Densitometry
§ 3:550.60 Electroencephalography (EEG)
§ 3:550.70 Video Fluoroscopy
§ 3:550.80 HLA-B27
§ 3:550.90 The Expert Vision Spinoscope®
§ 3:550.91 Electrical Source Imaging
§ 3:550.92 Magnetic Source Imaging (MSI)
§ 3:550.93 Laser Optical Imaging
§ 3:550.94 Tests For Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
§ 3:550.95 Laboratory Tests
C. Diagnosing Spinal Lesions
§ 3:560 Introduction
§ 3:570 Neurologic Level C1/C2
§ 3:580 Neurologic Level C3 (C3 Intact—Lesion Between C2 and C3)
§ 3:590 Neurologic Level C4 (C4 Intact—Lesion Between C3 and C4)
§ 3:600 Neurologic Level C5 (C5 Intact—Lesion Between C5 and C6)
§ 3:610 Neurologic Level C6 (C6 Intact—Lesion Between C6 and C7)
§ 3:620 Neurologic Level C7 (C7 Intact—Lesion Between C7 and Tl)
§ 3:630 Neurologic Level C8 (C8 Intact—Lesion Between Tl and T2)
§ 3:640 Neurologic Levels Tl (Tl Intact—Lesion Between T2 and T3)
§ 3:650 Neurologic Levels T1 Through T12
§ 3:660 Neurologic Level Ll (Ll Intact—Lesion Between Ll and L2)
§ 3:670 Neurologic Level L2 (L2 Intact—Lesion Between L2 and L3)
§ 3:680 Neurologic Level L3 (L3 Intact—Lesion Between L3 and L4)
§ 3:690 Neurologic Level L4 (L4 Intact—Lesion Between L4 and L5)
§ 3:700 Neurologic Level L5 (L5 Intact—Lesion Between LS and Sl)
§ 3:710 Neurologic Level Sl (Sl Intact—Lesion Between Sl and S2)
D. Diseases Associated with Neck and Back Pain
§ 3:720 Checklist on Rheumatic Diseases Associated with Neck Pain
§ 3:721 Psoriatic Arthritis
§ 3:722 Vertebral Osteomyelitis
§ 3:723 Meningitis
§ 3:724 Paget’s Disease of the Bone
§ 3:725 Infiltrative Lesions of the Cervical Spine
§ 3:726 Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
§ 3:727 Hemangioma
§ 3:728 Eosinophilic Granuloma
§ 3:729 Chordoma
§ 3:730 Multiple Myeloma
§ 3:731 Lymphomas
§ 3:732 Skeletal Metastases
§ 3:733 Intraspinal Neoplasm
§ 3:734 Enteropathic Arthritis
§ 3:735 Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperotosis
§ 3:736 Reiter’s Syndrome
§ 3:737 Summary of Spinal Metastases
§ 3:738 Degenerative and Inflammatory Diseases
III.
Checklist
§
3:800 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
4 Treating Neck and Back Injuries
I. Conservative
A.
Introduction
§
4:10 Introduction
§ 4:20 Bedrest
B. Traction
§ 4:30 Introduction
§ 4:40 Applying Traction
§ 4:50 Traction Devices
C. Drugs
1. Introduction
§ 4:60 Prescribing Drugs
§ 4:70 Physicians’ Desk Reference Guides
2. Types of Drugs
§ 4:80 The Inflammatory Response
§ 4:81 Anti-Inflammatories
§ 4:90 Muscle Relaxants
§ 4:100 Analgesics
§ 4:101 Epidural Steroids
D. Physical Therapy and Manipulation
§ 4:110 Overview
§ 4:111 The Role of the Physical Therapist
§ 4:120 Heat Application
§ 4:130 Cold Application (Cryotherapy)
§ 4:140 Ultrasound
E. Other Forms of Treatment
§ 4:150 Physical Therapy: Electroanalgesia by Means of
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
§ 4:151 The Use of TENS to Treat Cervical Pain Syndrome
§ 4:152 Spinal Cord Stimulation
§ 4:160 Facet Joint Injections
§ 4:160.1 Facet Technologies
§ 4:161 Trigger Point Injection
§ 4:161.1 Botulinum Toxin as Treatment for Whiplash-Associated
Neck Pain
§ 4:162 Arthrocentesis
§ 4:163 Trigger Points For Myofascial Pain Syndrome
§ 4:170 Epidural Steroid Injections
§ 4:180 Epidural Venogram
§ 4:181 Willow Bark Extract
§ 4:190 Massage
§ 4:191 Early Physical Therapy
§ 4:192 Lumbar Supports
§ 4:193 MedX®
Program
§ 4:194 Homeopathic Gel
§ 4:195 Theraputic Magnets
§ 4:196 Radiofrequency Neurotomy
§ 4:196.1 The Anatomy of Facet Joints and Sacroiliac Joints
§ 4:197 Complications of Radiofrequency Neurotomy
§ 4:200 Sciatica Exercises
§ 4:200.1 Exercise for Sciatica (Herniated Disk)
§ 4:200.2 Exercise for Sciatica (Spinal Stenosis)
§ 4:200.3 Exercise for Sciatica (Degenerative Disk Disease)
§ 4:200.4 Exercise for Sciatica (Isthmic Spondylothesis)
§ 4:200.5 Exercise for Sciatic Pain (Piriformis Syndrome)
§ 4:200.6 Exercise for Sciatic Pain (Sacroiliac Joint
Dysfunction)
§ 4:200.7 Sciatica (Hamstring Stretching Exercises)
§ 4:201 Back School
§ 4:202 Taking a History of Low Back Pain
§ 4:203 MacKenzie Protocol for Low Back Pain
§ 4:204 Waddell Score
§ 4:210 Checklist: Organic Causes of Low Back Pain
§ 4:211 Cervical Nonorganic Signs
§ 4:212 Physical Therapy Clinical Practice Guidelines
§ 4:213 Sample Report on Permanent Impairment Resulting from Neck or
Back Injury
II.
Surgical Intervention
A.
Justifying Surgery
§
4:220 Introduction
§ 4:230 Motor Deficits
§ 4:240 Pain
§ 4:241 Clinical Screening for Surgical Spine Injuries
B. Conditions Requiring Surgery
§ 4:250 Treatment Options for Herniated Discs
§ 4:250.1 Surgery for Herniated Discs
§ 4:251 Indications for Cervical Spine Surgery
§ 4:252 Complications of Cervical Spine Surgery
§ 4:253 Post-Operative Complications
§ 4:254 Surgical Procedures for Acute Disc Herniation
§ 4:260 Nerve Root Entrapment
§ 4:261 Summary of Various Forms of Spine Surgery
§ 4:270 Causalgia
§ 4:280 Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
§ 4:281 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
§ 4:281.1 Erythromelalgia
§ 4:282 Pain Syndrome
§ 4:283 Cervical Spine Surgery
§ 4:283.1 Disk Nucleus Replacement
§ 4:283.2 Other Lumbar Artificial Disk Developments
§ 4:283.3 Lumbar Artificial Disk Surgery
§ 4:283.4 Suggestions of Questions to Ask Spine Surgeon
§ 4:284 Medical Conditions That May Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
§ 4:285 Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
§ 4:286 Chiropractic Treatment For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
§ 4:287 Laser Light Therapy Treatment
§ 4:288 American College of Orthopedic Surgeons’ Recommended Carpal
Tunnel Decompression Exercises
§ 4:289 Steroid Injection
III.
Psychological Treatment
A.
Elements of Chronic Pain Syndrome
§
4:290 Introduction
§ 4:300 Persistent Complaints of Pain
§ 4:310 Impaired Functioning
§ 4:320 Emotional Distress
§ 4:321 General Signs and Symptoms Associated with Fibromyalgia
Syndrome
§ 4:321.1 Diagnostic Criteria
§ 4:321.2 Limitations on Diagnostic Criteria
§ 4:322 Three Major Types of Fibromyalgia Syndrome
§ 4:323 Fibromyalgia and Psychogenic Disorders
§ 4:324 Prognostic Factors For Development of Fibromyalgia
§ 4:325 Fibromyalgia Disability Rating
§ 4:326 Fibromyalgia in Men
§ 4:327 Fibromyalgia Symptoms: Fibrofog
B. Results of Chronic Pain
§ 4:329 Hormones and Fibromyalgia
§ 4:329.1 Sleep Disturbances and Fibromyalgia
§ 4:329.2 Muscle Injury and Fibromyalgia
§ 4:329.3 Massage Therapy and Fibromyalgia
§ 4:329.4 Chronic Opioid and Analgesic Therapy
§ 4:329.5 Behavior Therapies
§ 4:330 Chemical Dependency
§ 4:340 Family Discord
§ 4:350 Vocational Difficulties
§ 4:351 Analgesics and Chronic Pain
§ 4:352 Chronic Back Pain and Depression
§ 4:353 Update on Cox-2 Inhibitors and Other NSAIDs
C. Testing Methods
§ 4:360 Introduction
§ 4:370 Initial Interview
§ 4:380 Self-Reporting Methods
§ 4:390 Personality Tests
§ 4:391 Documentation of Chronic Pain: Subjective and Objective
Methods
§ 4:392 The Psychiatrist and the Chronic Pain Team
§ 4:393 The Psychophysiologic Response to Chronic Pain and Depression
§ 4:400 DSM-IV: Diagnostic Criteria for Pain Disorder
§ 4:401 The Polygraph for Pain
D. Treatment
§ 4:410 Introduction
§ 4:420 Modalities
§ 4:430 Settings
§ 4:440 Goals
IV.
Chiropractic Medicine
§
4:450 Introduction
§ 4:460 Diagnosis
§ 4:470 Types of Pathologies
§ 4:480 Treatment
§ 4:481 The Activator Chiropractic Technique
§ 4:490 Patient Management
§ 4:490.1 Spinal Manipulation vs. Acupuncture and Medical
Treatment
§ 4:491 Overutilization of Chiropractic Services
§ 4:492 Post-Cervical Manipulation Stroke
V.
Other Treatments
§
4:500 Chemonucleolysis
§ 4:510 Ergonomics as a Multi-Disciplinary Activity
§ 4:520 Tissue Proliferation
§ 4:530 Spinal Fusion
§ 4:531 The Bak
Interbody Fusion System
§ 4:532 Laparoscopic Assisted Spinal Fusion
§ 4:533 Percutaneous Endoscopic Cervical/Lumbar Discectomy
§ 4:534 Intradiscal Electrothermal Annuloplasty
§ 4:535 Lumbar Inter-Body Fusion
§ 4:536 Endoscopic Laser Foraminoplasty
§ 4:537 Balloon Kyphoplasty
§ 4:538 Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunctions
VI.
Checklist
§
4:540 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
5 Evaluating Permanent Impairment
I. Introduction
§
5:10 Disability Ratings
§ 5:20 Definitions
§ 5:30 Methodology
II.
Application
A. Back
§
5:40 Techniques of Measurement
§ 5:50 Factors of Measurement
B. Peripheral Spinal Nerves
§ 5:60 Introduction
§ 5:70 Evaluating Pain
§ 5:71 AMA Guides and Evaluation of Permanent Impairment of Pain
§ 5:72 AMA Guides’ Diagnostic Criteria in Determining Effects of Pain
§ 5:80 Evaluating Muscle Strength
§ 5:81 Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (Fifth
Edition)
III.
Evaluation
A.
Physical Aspects
§
5:90 Low Back
§ 5:100 Cervical
§ 5:101 Cervical Spine Impairment Ratings
§ 5:110 Upper Extremity
B. Vocational Effect
§ 5:120 Introduction
§ 5:130 Physical Evaluation
§ 5:131 Reliability of AMA Spinal Range of Movement Guidelines
§ 5:140 Vocational Evaluation
§ 5:140.10 Whole Body Range of Motion Test (WBRM)
§ 5:140.20 Microcomputer Evaluation and Screening Assessment
(MESA)
§
5:140.30 Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT)
§ 5:140.40 Results of Vocational Tests
§ 5:150 Social Security Disability
§ 5:151 Chart of Industrial Back Injury Work Restriction
Classifications
§ 5:152 Rehabilitation: Returning the Injured Worker to the Job
§ 5:153 Functional Ability Assessments and the Americans with
Disabilities Act
IV.
Checklist
§
5:160 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
6 Investigation of the Case
I. Introduction
§
6:10 Role of Investigation
§ 6:20 Role of Investigator
§ 6:20.10 Sample Transmittal Letter to Investigator
§ 6:20.20 Sample Investigation Report Form
§ 6:21 Role of Professional Engineers
§ 6:30 Role of Attorney
II.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
A.
Testimonial Evidence
1.
Witness Statements
§
6:40 Witnesses
§ 6:41 The Role of the Police Officer
§ 6:50 Expert Witness Statements
§ 6:60 Preserving Statements
2. Depositions
§ 6:70 Introduction
§ 6:80 Sample Petition for Perpetuation of Testimony
§ 6:81 Motion to Preserve Evidence
B. Non-Testimonial Evidence
§ 6:90 Videotapes
§ 6:100 Photographs
§ 6:110 Diagrams
§ 6:110.11 Simulated Linear Accident Momentum (SLAM)
§ 6:120 Computer Programs
§ 6:120.10 Simulation Model of Automobile Collision (SMAC)
§ 6:120.20 Other Computer Model Programs
§ 6:120.30 Admission of Computer-Generated Videographics
§ 6:120.40 Virtual Reality Videotapes
§ 6:120.50 Collision Analysis
§ 6:120.51 Seat Analysis: Unsafe Design
§ 6:120.52 Crashworthiness Analysis: Vehicle Rollovers
§ 6:120.53 Mechanisms of the Injury in Collision Cases
§ 6:120.54 Sample Discovery Request Regarding Accident
Reconstruction
§ 6:120.55 Using Textile Plastic Fusing for Accident
Reconstruction Investigation
C. Discovery Considerations
§ 6:121 Federal Rule of Civil Procedure Mandatory Disclosures
§ 6:122 Supplementing Discovery Responses
§ 6:123 Expert Witness Chart
III.
Checklist
§
6:130 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
7 The Physician
I. Introduction
§
7:10 Role of the Physician
§ 7:20 Establishing Rapport
§ 7:30 Gaining Physician Confidence
§ 7:31 Chart of Certification and Board Specialties
§ 7:32 Checklist of Medical Specialties
II.
Communicating with Treating Physicians
A.
Plaintiff Contact
§
7:40 Introduction
§ 7:50 Letters
§ 7:50.10 Introduction
§ 7:60 Forms
§ 7:60.10 Introduction
§ 7:60.20 Sample Work Restriction Evaluation Form
§ 7:70 Interviews
§ 7:70.10 Introduction
§ 7:70.20 Initial Interview
§ 7:70.30 Interim Interviews
§ 7:70.40 Final Preparatory Interview
B. Defense Contact
§ 7:80 Introduction
§ 7:90 Federal Courts
§ 7:100 State Law Prohibiting Ex Parte Contact
§ 7:110 State Law Allowing Ex Parte Contact
III.
Medical Reports and Records
A.
Introduction
§
7:120 Reports vs. Records
§ 7:130 Computerized Records
§ 7:140 In Practice: Obtaining Effective Documentation of Injury
§ 7:140.1 Form: Request for Narrative Report
§ 7:140.2 Form: Affidavit of Treating Physician
§ 7:140.3 Form: Deposition Questions for Client’s Treating Doctor
B. Physician Office Records
§ 7:150 Overview
§ 7:160 Legibility and Comprehensiveness
§ 7:170 Medical History
§ 7:180 Symptom Review
§ 7:190 Examination
§ 7:200 Diagnosis
§ 7:210 Prognosis
C. Hospital Records
§ 7:220 Overview
§ 7:230 Admission Chart
§ 7:240 Vital Sign Sheets
§ 7:250 Doctor’s Order Sheet
§ 7:260 Nurse’s Notes
§ 7:270 Progress Notes
§ 7:280 Consultations
§ 7:290 Laboratory Reports
§ 7:300 Physiotherapy Reports
§ 7:310 Discharge Summary
D. Using Medical Records
§ 7:320 Reading and Interpreting
§ 7:330 Cataloging
§ 7:340 Postaccident Negative Findings
§ 7:350 Inconsistencies
§ 7:360 Documenting Pain and Suffering
§ 7:361 Medical Summaries
§ 7:370 Inferring Missing Information
§ 7:371 Altered and Lost Medical Records
IV.
Physician Expert Witness
§
7:380 Introduction
§ 7:390 Communicating with Expert Physician
§ 7:391 Deposing Physicians
V.
Checklist
§
7:400 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
8 Dealing with Defense Team: Insurers, Defense Counsel and
Impartial Medical Experts
I. Valuing the CaseA.
Introduction
§
8:10 Elements of Recovery
§ 8:20 Chart: Itemizing Damages
§ 8:30 Checklist
B. Economic Loss
§ 8:40 Overview
§ 8:50 Medical Expenses
§ 8:60 Lost Earnings/Earning Capacity
C. Non-Economic Loss
§ 8:70 Overview
§ 8:80 Types of Pain and Suffering
§ 8:90 Measuring Pain and Suffering
II.
The Adjuster
A.
Introduction
1.
Tactics
§
8:100 Litigation vs. Claims Adjustment
§ 8:110 Experienced vs. Inexperienced Adjusters
§ 8:120 Tips for Dealing with Adjusters
§ 8:120.1 Form: Letter to Adjuster re Low Impact Injuries
§ 8:130 Checklist for Dealing with Adjusters
2. Role of Case Reserves
§ 8:140 Introduction
§ 8:150 Estimating Case Reserves
B. The Claim
1. Preparing Medical Support
§ 8:160 Treating Physician
§ 8:170 Non-Treating Physicians
§ 8:180 Avoid Unnecessary Special Damages
§ 8:190 Provide Documentary Support
2. Presenting the Claim
§ 8:200 Introduction
§ 8:210 Demand Letters
§ 8:210.10 Preparing Demand Letter
§ 8:210.20 Anatomy of a Demand Letter
§ 8:210.30 Sample Demand Letter
§ 8:220 Settlement Brochures
§ 8:220.10 Magazine Format
§ 8:220.20 Thematic Format
§ 8:220.30 Sample Cover Letter
§ 8:230 Videos
§ 8:230.10 Day-in-the-Life Video
§ 8:230.20 Settlement Video
3. Special Problems
§ 8:240 Weak Documentation
§ 8:250 Weak Liability
§ 8:260 Damages Exceeding Policy Limits
§ 8:270 Incompetent or Minor Client
C. Settlement
1. Negotiation
§ 8:280 Settlement Mentality
§ 8:290 Dealing With Lowball Offers
§ 8:300 Checklist for Negotiations
2. Closing the Deal
§ 8:310 When to File Suit
§ 8:320 When to Settle
§ 8:330 Checklist
§ 8:331 Enforcing Mediation Agreements and Settlements
§ 8:332 Components of the Mediation/Settlement Document
III.
Defense Counsel
A.
Introduction
§
8:340 New Emphasis
§ 8:350 Special Problems
§ 8:351 The Defense Perspective
B. Settlement
1. Introduction
§ 8:360 Settlement vs. Trial
§ 8:370 Negotiating Tactics
§ 8:380 “Reading” Your Opponent
§ 8:381 Sample Mutual Release and Settlement Agreement
2. Structured Settlements
§ 8:390 Introduction
§ 8:400 Advantages and Disadvantages
§ 8:410 Selecting the Annuity
§ 8:420 Tax Treatment
§ 8:430 Constructive Receipt
§ 8:440 Explaining Structured Settlements
§ 8:450 Checklist
3. Settlement Fund Management Trust
§ 8:460 Introduction
§ 8:470 Structure
§ 8:480 Associated Risk
§ 8:490 Revocability
§ 8:500 Advantages
4. Tax Strategies
§ 8:510 Introduction
§ 8:520 Inheritance Tax
§ 8:530 Allocating Settlement Funds
§ 8:531 Tax Reporting Requirements for Personal Injury Attorneys
§ 8:540 “Rigging” Settlements
§ 8:541 Avoiding Taxation Problems in Non-Physical Tort Cases
C. Joint Tortfeasors
§ 8:550 Introduction
§ 8:551 Sample Joint Tortfeasor Release
§ 8:560 Comparative Negligence
§ 8:560.10 Types
§ 8:560.20 Strategies
§ 8:570 Joint Tortfeasor Releases
§ 8:580 Mary Carter Agreements
§ 8:590 Effect of Settlement on Co-Defendants
IV.
Impartial Medical Experts
§
8:600 Impartial/Independent Medical Experts
§ 8:610 Arranging Examinations
§ 8:610.1 Form: DME Court Order
§ 8:610.2 Form: Letter to Client re DME
§ 8:620 Obtaining Information
§ 8:621 Form: DME Interrogatories
§ 8:630 Providing Information
§ 8:640 Requesting IME Report
§ 8:650 Using IME Bias
§ 8:650.1 Form: Brief in Support of Motion to Compel Financial
Records From DME
§ 8:650.2 Form: Addendum to Deposition Subpoena Duces Tecum for
DME
§ 8:651 Neutralizing the Psychological IME
§ 8.652 Deposing the Psychological IME
§ 8:652.1 Incomplete Records
§ 8:652.2 Testing Methods
§ 8:652.3 Test Results or Omissions Helpful to Plaintiff
§ 8:660 Treating Physician
V.
Plaintiff’s Insurance Carrier
§
8:670 Notification
§ 8:670.1 Form: Retention Letter to PIP Carrier
§ 8:680 Subrogation
§ 8:690 Settlement Tactics
§ 8:700 Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
§ 8:700.1 Overview
§ 8:700.2 Uninsured vs. Underinsured
§ 8:700.3 Contract Language Controls
§ 8:700.4 Timing for UM/UIM Claims
§ 8:700.5 Threshold Still Required
§ 8:700.6 Set-Offs for UIM Claims
§ § 8:700.7 – 8:700.9 [Reserved]
§ 8:700.10 Notification
§ 8:700.11 Form: UM/UIM Demand Letter [Short Form]
§ 8:700.20 Coverage
§ 8:700.30 Permission to Settle
§ 8:700.40 Amount of Damages
§ 8:700.50 Arbitration
§ 8:700.60 Choosing the Right Mediator
§ 8:710 The Plaintiff’s Structured Settlement Specialist
VI.
Checklist
§
8:720 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
9 Pretrial Procedures
I. Introduction
§
9:10 Developing a Theme
§ 9:20 Role of Substantive Law
§ 9:30 Winning Over the Judge
II.
Developing a Discovery Plan
§
9:40 Plaintiff Strategy
§ 9:41 Checklist for Plaintiff’s Discovery Strategy
§ 9:50 Defense Strategy
§ 9:51 Checklist for Defendant’s Strategy
§ 9:60 Case Study
§ 9:70 Discovery Under the Federal Rules: Automatic Disclosure
§ 9:70.1 Checklist for Disclosure Under Amended Rules
§ 9:70.2 Automatic Disclosures and Demonstrative Evidence
§ 9:71 Discovery Conferences
III.
Types of Information to Discover
A. Experts
§
9:80 Formal Discovery
§ 9:90 Indirect Sources of Information
§ 9:91 Discovery and Opinion Work Product/Attorney-Client Privilege
Documents Shown to Testifying Expert
§ 9:91.1 Role of Counsel and Expert in Preparing Reports
§ 9:92 Expert Witnesses: Consulting Experts Versus Testifying Experts
§ 9:92.1 Exceptional Circumstances in Discovery of Non
Testimonial Experts
§ 9:93 Using Expert Witnesses Effectively in Neck and Back Injury
Cases
§ 9:94 When to Use a Chiropractor as Expert
B. Indemnity and Insurance
§ 9:100 Indemnity Agreements
§ 9:110 Insurance Agreements
§ 9:120 Reservation of Rights
C. Surveillance Evidence
§ 9:130 Preparing the Client
§ 9:140 Discovery
§ 9:150 Deposing the Investigator
§ 9:160 Analyzing Surveillance Evidence
§ 9:170 Checklist
§ 9:180 Sample: Motion to Compel Production of Surveillance Evidence
D. Electronic Media Discovery
§ 9:190 Introduction
IV.
Discovery Methods
A.
Interrogatories
§
9:200 Introduction
§ 9:210 Contention Interrogatories
§ 9:220 Sample Plaintiff to Defendant Interrogatories
B. Depositions
1. Introduction
§ 9:270 Preparing to Take
§ 9:280 Preparing to Defend
§ 9:290 Sample Deposition Notice
§ 9:291 Sample Subpoena
2. Types of Deponents
§ 9:300 Treating Physician
§ 9:310 Impartial Medical Experts
§ 9:320 Deposing Expert for Trial Purposes
3. Checklists
§ 9:330 Plaintiff to Defendant
§ 9:340 Defendant to Plaintiff
§ 9:350 Plaintiff to Treating Physician
§ 9:360 Plaintiff to Impartial Medical Expert
§ 9:370 Other Experts
4. Videotape Depositions
§ 9:380 Introduction
§ 9:390 Videotape Quality
§ 9:400 Maximizing Admissibility
§ 9:401 Video Impeachment
§ 9:410 Sample: Stipulation to Take a Videotape Deposition
§ 9:411 Checklist on Depositions in Neck and Back Injury Cases
C. Production Requests
§ 9:420 Introduction
§ 9:430 Sample Request for Production
D. Requests for Admission
§ 9:440 Introduction
§ 9:450 Sample Request for Admission
E. Requests for Physical or Mental Examinations
§ 9:460 Introduction
§ 9:470 Requirement of Good Cause
§ 9:480 Restricting Scope of Examination
§ 9:490 Sample Memorandum
V.
Pretrial Motions
§
9:500 Discovery Disputes
§ 9:510 Motions in Limine
§ 9:520 Sample Motions in Limine
§ 9:520.1 Form: Brief in Support of Plaintiff’s Motion
in Limine to Exclude Photos
§ 9:520.2 Sample Motion in Limine to Bar Defense
Introduction of Evidence Concerning Prior Injury
VI.
Checklists
§ 9:530 Chapter Checklist
Chapter
10 Preparing for Trial and Appeal
I. Voir Dire
A.
Introduction
§
10:10 Overview
§ 10:20 Number of Jurors
§ 10:30 Checklist
§ 10:31 Jury Chart
§ 10:32 Juror Challenge Form
§ 10:33 Motion to Increase Number of Peremptory Challenges
B. Tactical Considerations
§ 10:40 Soft Tissue Injuries
§ 10:50 Juror Characteristics
§ 10:60 Objecting to Voir Dire
C. Learning about Potential Jurors
§ 10:70 Introduction
§ 10:80 Sample Juror Questionnaire
§ 10:90 Voir Dire Questions
§ 10:100 Asking Voir Dire Questions
§ 10:101 Litigation Psychology and Trial Consultants
§ 10:102 Sample Voir Dire Questions: Demonstrating Juror Bias
D. Methods of Jury Selection
§ 10:110 Traditional Method
§ 10:120 Struck Method
E. Challenging Jurors
§ 10:130 Challenges for Cause
§ 10:140 Peremptory Challenges
II.
Opening Statement
A. Goals
§
10:150 Introduction
§ 10:160 Establish Credibility
§ 10:170 Introduce Case
§ 10:180 Establish Theme
§ 10:181 Persuading the Jury Using Words and Imagery
§ 10:190 Educate Jury
B. Special Problems
§ 10:200 Demonstrative Evidence
§ 10:210 Objections
§ 10:220 Avoiding Promises
C. Sample Opening Statements
§ 10:230 Plaintiff
§ 10:240 Defense
§ 10:241 Checking for Opening Statements
§ 10:242 Objections to Opening Statements
§ 10:243 Checklist for Opening Statement Objections
III.
Presenting Evidence
A.
Introduction
§
10:250 Plaintiff’s Case
§ 10:260 Winning Over the Jurors
§ 10:260.1 Ways to Sensitize the Jury to a Plaintiff’s Pain
§ 10:261 Checklist for Direct Examination of Plaintiff
§ 10:270 Using Computers at Trial
§ 10:271 SafeStat and USDOT Safety Ratings
B. Pretrial Evidentiary Rulings
§ 10:280 Pretrial Conference
§ 10:290 Motions in Limine
§ 10:290.10 Delayed Rulings
§ 10:290.20 Preserving Appellate Rights
§ 10:291 Foundations
§ 10:292 Exhibits
C. Testimonial Evidence
1. Plaintiff
§ 10:300 Introduction
§ 10:310 Plaintiffs Who Are Poor Witnesses
§ 10:320 Using Personal Injury Diary
§ 10:330 Using Demonstrative Evidence
§ 10:340 Using Third Party Testimony
2. Defendant
§ 10:350 Introduction
§ 10:360 Tactical Considerations
§ 10:361 Cross Examination Techniques for Defendant
3. Lay Witnesses
§ 10:370 Introduction
§ 10:380 Spouses and Children
§ 10:390 Cross-Examination
4. Expert Witnesses
§ 10:400 Introduction
§ 10:410 Cross-Examination
§ 10:411 Checklist for Defense Cross Examination
§ 10:412 Using the Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment to
Cross Examine Experts
§ 10:420 Physicians
§ 10:420.10 Direct Examination
§ 10:420.20 Cross-Examination
§ 10:420.21 Methods to Cross Examine the Biomechanical Engineer
§ 10:420.22 Biomechanical Engineers versus Medical Doctors
§ 10:420.23 Jury Perception of Expert Witnesses
§ 10:420.30 Direct Examination of Treating Physician
§ 10:420.40 Cross-Examination of Treating Physician
§ 10:420.50 Form: Cross-Examination of Defense Medical Examiner (DME)
§ 10:430 Psychiatrists
§ 10:440 Physiatry
§ 10:450 Chiropractors
§ 10:460 Economists
§ 10:461 Accountants
§ 10:470 Human Factors Engineers
§ 10:471 Forensic Biomechanics and Unwitnessed Falling Accidents
§ 10:472 Forensic Application/Computer Simulation of Falls
§ 10:480 Clinical Neuropsychologists
§ 10:481 Refuting Common Defenses in Brain Injury Cases
§ 10:482 Proving Personality and Memory Changes Caused by Traumatic
Brain Injury
5. Videotaped Testimony
§ 10:490 Introduction
§ 10:500 Objections
§ 10:510 Impeachment
§ 10:520 Taxing Costs
§ 10:530 Pretrial Challenges
§ 10:540 Trial Challenges
§ 10:550 Checklist
D. Non-testimonial Evidence
1. Demonstrative Evidence
§ 10:560 Introduction
§ 10:570 Finding and Using Demonstrative Evidence
2. Demonstrations, Tests and Experiments
§ 10:580 Introduction
§ 10:590 Videotapes
3. Viewing Scene
§ 10:600 Introduction
§ 10:610 Preparation
4. Videotape Evidence
§ 10:620 Introduction
§ 10:630 Admissibility
§ 10:630.10 Foundation
§ 10:630.20 Relevancy
§ 10:630.30 Balancing Test
§ 10:630.40 Hearsay
§ 10:630.50 Best Evidence Rule
§ 10:640 Uses
§ 10:640.10 Legal Theories
§ 10:640.20 Scientific Principles
§ 10:640.30 Re-Creations, Reconstructions and Reenactments
§ 10:640.40 Day-in-the-Life Videotapes
§ 10:640.50 Checklist
5. Videographics
§ 10:650 Introduction
§ 10:660 Two and Three Dimensional Representations
§ 10:670 Imaginary Versus Real Views
§ 10:680 Laser Disk Presentation
§ 10:681 Virtual Reality Videotapes
§ 10:690 Evidentiary Problems
§ 10:690.10 Foundation
§ 10:690.20 Scientific Evidence Standards
IV.
Showing Damages
§
10:700 Introduction
§ 10:710 Physical Injuries
§ 10:720 Psychological Injuries
§ 10:720.10 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
§ 10:720.20 Acute Stress Disorder
§ 10:720.30 Anxiety Disorders
§ 10:730 Pain and Suffering
§ 10:730.10 Per Diem
§ 10:730.20 Summation
§ 10:730.30 Diagnostic Criteria for Pain Disorder
§ 10:740 Economic Losses
§ 10:740.10 Out-Of-Pocket
§ 10:740.20 Future
§ 10:741 Dealing with Medicare Liens
V.
Closing Argument
A.
Effective Techniques
§
10:750 Introduction
§ 10:751 Checklist for Retaining Expert
§ 10:760 Use Plaintiff’s Trial Attendance
§ 10:770 Refer to Jury Instructions
§ 10:780 Use Record
§ 10:790 Use Quotations and Anecdotes
§ 10:791 Sample Closing Argument Using Metaphors and Analogies
§ 10:800 Use Exhibits and Demonstrative Evidence
§ 10:810 Emphasize Strengths and Address Weaknesses
§ 10:820 Address Opponent’s Weaknesses
§ 10:830 Emphasize Consistency with Opening Statement
§ 10:840 Emphasize Damages
§ 10:850 Emphasize Importance of Case
B. Sample Closing Arguments
§ 10:860 Introduction
§ 10:870 Sample Defense Closing
§ 10:880 Sample Plaintiff Closing
VI.
Jury Instructions
§
10:890 Introduction
§ 10:891 Objections to Closing Arguments
§ 10:892 Checklist for Closing Argument
§ 10:900 Sample Plaintiff’s Jury Instructions
§ 10:910 Sample Defense Jury Instructions
VII.
Preserving Record for Appeal
§
10:920 Introduction
§ 10:930 Objections
§ 10:940 Offers of Proof
§ 10:950 Motions in Limine
§ 10:960 Motions to Strike and Curative Instructions
VIII.
Appellate Advocacy
§
10:970 Length of Brief
§ 10:980 Format of Brief
§ 10:990 Tactics of Brief
§ 10:1000 Style of Brief
§ 10:1010 Oral Advocacy
IX.
Checklist
§ 10:1020 Chapter Checklist
Table of
Abbreviations A-1
Index of Forms and
Illustrations B-1
Table of Cases C-1
Table of Statutes D-1
Bibliography E-1
Index I-1
H6 |
