Have you been injured in a car accident and have questions about your rights? Our attorneys will guide you through the IME process and ensure you receive the compensation you need.
Often, as part of a car accident claim, you may be requested by your insurance carrier to undergo an Independent Medical Examination (IME). But what is an IME, and what does it entail? Ahead we discuss IME in detail and share tips to assist you during an IME session. So, let’s dive right into it!
What’s an Independent Medical Exam?
An independent medical examination (IME) is an objective medical exam conducted by a physician sought by your insurance carrier to obtain expert opinions regarding your injuries. The insurer then uses the IME exam report to determine your eligibility for compensation.
IME Steps After a New York Car Accident
Understanding the different steps in an IME beforehand gives you a better idea of how the whole exercise is conducted and allows you to prepare sufficiently. That said, here’s what you should expect in an IME after a New York Car accident:
- Interview – Although you may have completed a questionnaire with your insurance carrier, the IME doctor will interview you to determine the sequence of events that led to your injury.
- Medical Examination – Like other medical examinations, the IME physician will check and record your vitals, such as blood pressure and temperature. They may also use their hands to press on the injured areas and look for abnormalities. Besides the physical examination, the physician may also want to know whether you are experiencing any discomfort, the severity of your pain/ discomfort, the period you’ve been feeling pain, and any techniques you’ve been using to relieve the pain.
- Review of Past Medical Records – Your IME physician will review your previous doctor’s notes and X-ray reports to determine whether your statements during the interview match your medical records.
- Observation of Your Physical Abilities – The IME physician will observe your every detail, including how easily you handle everyday activities such as walking, and standing and report their findings to the insurance company.
- Sample Collection – The IME physician may take blood and urine samples for a lab test. The lab test results will then be used later to determine organ damage or any other internal injury due to the accident.
How Do I Prepare for an IME?
Here are some points to help you prepare for an Independent Medical Examination:
- Be ready to discuss your medical history and prior injuries with the IME physician.
- Prepare an accurate description of how the accident happened.
- Dress appropriately and professionally.
- Arrive early.
Contact a New York Car Accident Attorney
Have you been injured in a car accident and have questions about your rights? Get in touch with attorneys from Apicella & Schlesinger for assistance. Our attorneys will guide you through the Independent Medical Examination process and ensure you receive the compensation you need. Call us today for a free, comprehensive, and confidential consultation.