X-Ray

An X-ray is an imaging test that uses low doses of radiation to create pictures of bones and certain tissues inside the body. In personal injury cases, X-rays help confirm and document fractures, dislocations, and other injuries, creating medical evidence that supports your claim for compensation.

Understanding the language used in a personal injury claim can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re focused on healing. That’s why Andrew Kryder, Esq., and the team at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, created this glossary series. Each entry breaks down a common legal or medical term in plain language, so you always know what’s happening with your case. Today, we’re looking at X-rays and why they matter after an accident.

What Is an X-Ray?

An X-ray, formerly referred to as a radiograph, is a non-invasive imaging test that uses low doses of radiation to produce detailed pictures of your body’s internal structures, particularly bones. As a form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation, X-rays pass through the body to create clear, diagnostic images.

These X-rays are produced when high-speed electrons collide with a target material inside the X-ray tube. When a technician takes an image, the machine sends radiation through your body, and dense structures like bone absorb more of it than soft tissue. This creates a clear, black-and-white image that doctors use to spot breaks, fractures, and other abnormalities.  

X-rays are quick and non-invasive, and X-ray machines are widely available at hospitals, urgent care clinics, and doctors’ offices. Because they’re often the first imaging test ordered after an accident, they play an early and important role in diagnosing injuries.

What Injuries or Conditions Use X-Rays?

Doctors order X-rays to identify a range of injuries commonly seen in personal injury cases, including:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Dislocated joints
• Spinal misalignment or fractures
• Rib fractures
• Foreign objects lodged in soft tissue
• Signs of arthritis or bone degeneration that may complicate a claim

While X-rays are excellent for viewing bones, they don’t show soft tissue damage like torn ligaments or muscle injuries as clearly. In those cases, your doctor may also order a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan for a more complete picture.

What Types of Accidents Involve X-Rays?

X-rays are used across nearly every type of personal injury case, including:

• Car and truck accidents
• Motorcycle wrecks
• Slip and fall incidents
• Construction accidents
• Workers’ compensation injuries
• Nursing home abuse cases involving physical harm

Because these accidents often involve sudden impact or falls, X-rays help confirm whether bones have been broken or joints have been displaced, giving doctors and lawyers a clearer understanding of the harm you’ve suffered.

How Safe Are X-Rays?

X-ray radiation exposure involves ionizing radiation, which can damage DNA and pose health risks if not properly managed. Like gamma rays, X-rays carry high energy; however, medical X-rays use precise, controlled doses to capture images safely. Because cumulative radiation exposure over time slightly increases cancer risk, the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies ionizing radiation as a known carcinogen.

However, medical X-rays are safe when standard safety measures are followed, such as using protective shielding and the lowest effective radiation dose. Extra care is taken for sensitive individuals: pregnant women should always inform their healthcare provider before an X-ray, so alternative imaging or additional protective steps can be used.

Why Does an X-Ray Matter in a Personal Injury Case?

An X-ray does more than guide your treatment. It also creates an official medical record that documents the severity of your injury. Insurance companies and courts rely on objective medical evidence, and an X-ray image showing a fracture is difficult to dispute.

This documentation can directly affect the value of your claim. A clearly diagnosed fracture, supported by X-ray imaging, provides stronger evidence of pain, suffering, and necessary treatment than a soft tissue injury alone. That’s why it’s so important to seek medical attention right after an accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, including fractures, aren’t always immediately obvious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions injured clients have asked our legal team.

Do I need an X-ray after every accident?

Not necessarily, but it’s a good idea to get evaluated by a doctor after any accident involving impact or a fall. A doctor can determine whether an X-ray or other imaging test is needed based on your symptoms.

Can I still file a claim if my X-ray comes back normal?

Yes. A normal X-ray doesn’t rule out injury. Many injuries, such as soft tissue damage or whiplash, don’t appear on an X-ray but can still be documented through other medical evaluations.

How soon after an accident should I get an X-ray?

As soon as possible: prompt medical care protects your health and creates a timely medical record linking your injuries to the accident.

Will my X-ray results be used in my personal injury case?

Yes. X-ray images and reports are commonly submitted as medical evidence to support the extent and cause of your injuries.

Let Us Help You Understand Your Case

Medical terms and legal paperwork shouldn’t add to your stress after an accident. If you’ve been injured and have questions about your X-ray results or your personal injury claim, Andrew Kryder, Esq., and The Kryder Law Group are here to help. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery.