Do I Have to Go to the IME for My Personal Injury Claim?

Do I Have to Attend the IME for My Car Accident Injury?

If you were hurt in a car wreck and your insurance or the other driver’s lawyer asks for an independent medical exam (IME), you may feel worried. You might wonder if it is required, what happens if you don’t go, and if it’s fair. Usually, yes, you must attend. If the insurer legally asks and you refuse, it could negatively affect your claim. As a Metairie car accident lawyer, I guide my clients through these situations every day.

What Is an IME?

An independent medical exam (IME) is when a doctor, hired by the insurance company or other side, checks your injury. That doctor reviews your accident, medical records, and examines you in person. The goal is to confirm how badly you were hurt and whether your condition is caused by the crash.

Why Is the Other Side Asking for an IME?

They usually want to protect their own interests. The insurer may seek an IME to:

• Confirm your injuries.
• Check how severe they are.
• Estimate how long you may need care.

While this seems like another hurdle, it’s a standard step. What matters most is having the right lawyer in your corner who understands how IMEs work and can help prepare you.

Can My Lawyer Tell Me to Skip the IME?

Some lawyers may suggest avoiding the IME, but doing so may risk your claim. With the right legal support, you will go prepared. A knowledgeable attorney will make sure the IME shift in your favor or at least does not hurt your case.

What If I’m Scared of the IME?

It’s normal to feel anxious. You might worry the doctor will try to downplay your pain. We help you understand the process, talk through what to expect, and coach you on answering questions carefully, without admitting things that could hurt your claim.

What Happens If I Ignore the IME Request?

Ignoring it can hurt your case. The insurer may say you didn’t comply. That could lead to denial of some benefits or even weakening your claim. It could also give the other side a reason to push back harder on your injuries.

Can I Reschedule or Change the IME Date?

Yes. You can usually ask to reschedule for a valid reason. But it must be reasonable like if you’re too sick or have a serious conflict. Your lawyer can help you ask the doctor or insurance company for a new time.

Where Does the IME Take Place?

The exam usually happens at the doctor’s office selected by the insurance company. It may be a distance from your home. A good lawyer can help make it more convenient or work to reduce unnecessary delays.

What Questions Will the Doctor Ask Me?

The doctor will ask about:

• How the crash happened.
• What symptoms you feel.
• Your medical history.
• What tests, treatments, or therapy you’ve had.

Be honest and clear. Don’t exaggerate or downplay. Your attorney will guide you on what to say and what to avoid.

What If I Don’t Understand a Question During the IME?

It’s okay to ask. But try to be clear. If a medical term is confusing, politely ask the doctor to explain. You don’t need to guess at answers.

Can the IME Doctor Order Treatment?

No. The IME doesn’t replace your doctor or care plan. The doctor hired by the other side cannot order surgeries or therapies for you. They only assess your injury.

Will I Have to Pay for the IME?

Typically not. The party requesting the IME usually pays for it. If there are travel costs, a good lawyer can help get those expenses refunded by the other side.

How Long Does an IME Take?

Most IMEs take around 30 to 90 minutes. It may feel longer if they need to look over your records carefully. Being calm and accurate helps you get through it faster.

Can I Bring My Own Doctor or Family Member to the IME?

You aren’t allowed to bring your own doctor. A trusted companion may be allowed in the waiting room but probably not in the exam room. Your lawyer can talk with the IME office beforehand if needed.

Will the IME Doctor Do Tests?

The doctor might do some basic tests, like checking movement, range of motion, watching how you walk, or testing reflexes. They rarely order advanced scans or x‑rays unless absolutely needed.

What If the IME Doctor Disagrees with My Doctor?

This happens often. Your lawyer can help compare both reports. Your own doctor’s notes and treatment history usually carry a lot of weight. We can also bring in expert opinions to back up your case.

Is the IME Report Final?

No. It’s just one piece. Your lawyer collects all records, bills, treatment plans, and job‑impact proof. We use them to show a complete picture and compare with the IME findings.

Can I See the IME Report?

Yes. If the insurer or other side is asking you to share it, you’re allowed to get a copy. If they don’t provide it, your lawyer can request it for you.

Will the IME Doctor Testify in Court?

Sometimes. It depends on your case. If they disagree with your doctor, the other side may call them to testify. We prepare you and counter with strong medical and factual evidence so your case remains solid.

How Can I Prepare for the IME?

Your lawyer will guide you. You’ll review your accident details, symptoms, and how your injury limits your daily life. We practice how to answer clearly, without guessing or giving extra details that might hurt your case.

Should I Mention Pain Even If It Didn’t Happen Right After the Crash?

Yes. Be honest about when symptoms began. Delayed pain, like from whiplash, is common. Explaining the delay clearly and why it may have happened helps your case.

What About Emotional Effects Like Anxiety or Stress?

That can be part of your injury. If you’ve seen a therapist or counselor, document it. The IME doctor may ask. Honest answers help. Emotional suffering can factor into your claim.

Can I Refuse to Do the IME at Night?

You can reasonably ask for a daytime appointment. If they schedule it at an odd time, talk with your lawyer. Most agreements require reasonable hours.

Does Going to the IME Hurt My Case?

No as long as you go prepared and honest. A good lawyer ensures the IME won’t weaken your case. We help turn it into another piece of neutral evidence in your favor.

Can I Record the IME?

State rules vary. Recording without permission may not be allowed. Usually, only the doctor records notes. Check with your attorney about your specific situation.

What If I Feel the IME Doctor Is Biased or Rude?

That can happen. Stay calm, stick to your facts, and answer carefully. Afterward, tell your lawyer. We document it and prepare to address it later.

Should I Stop Treatment Before the IME?

Never. You should continue treatment as prescribed. If you feel better, that’s okay to say. But stopping care suddenly looks suspicious. Show you followed your treatment plan all along.

What If I Have Had Pre-existing Injuries?

Be honest. Explain what was hurt before the wreck. Show how the crash made things worse. If your injury was only partly from the accident, you still may get compensation for the added harm.

Can the IME Doctor Say I’m Faking It?

If they suspect exaggeration, they can bring it up. That’s why it’s important to have honest answers and clear records. Your lawyer can bring in your own medical notes, x‑rays, and therapist visits to support your case.

What If I Don’t Speak English Well?

You have the right to an interpreter. Request it before the IME date. If your lawyer arranges one, the doctor must allow them. You shouldn’t face a language barrier during your exam.

Do I Need to Bring Anything to the IME?

Usually just your driver’s license or ID. If your accident involved an attorney, bring their name and number. Don’t bring extra documents—they have your medical records already.

Will They Videotape Me at the IME?

Most don’t. Some exam offices may record gait or movement tests. They usually tell you first. If you feel uncomfortable, tell your lawyer right away.

What If I’m Traumatized or Anxious at the IME?

Tell the doctor it’s hard to talk about the accident. Being honest about anxiety can be part of your claim. If you have notes from a psychologist, your lawyer can present them to explain how it affected you.

Can the IME Doctor Examine a Body Part That Isn’t Injured?

No. The exam should only cover injuries related to your claim. If they ask to check unrelated areas, tell your lawyer and you can object professionally.

Will the IME Doctor Ask About Your Job?

Yes. They need to understand how your injury affects your daily life. They may ask about your work duties, commute, or tasks you used to do. Honest answers are important.

What Should I Wear to the IME?

Dress in comfortable, loose clothes. If your injury affects your leg or back, wear pants so the doctor can do movement checks. Clothes that are easy to move in are best.

Should I Mention Treatments I Skipped?

Yes, explain why. If you couldn’t afford something or missed a therapy session, say so. The key is honesty. Your lawyer can help you explain any gaps to the other side.

Can I Bring Medical Records or Receipts?

No. The IME doctor uses records they already reviewed. Bringing extra paperwork can be confusing or even lead them to question your honesty.

What If They Ask About Settlements?

The IME doctor doesn’t negotiate money. If asked about offers, just say nothing. Answer medical questions only. Leave payments to your attorney.

Will Attending the IME Make My Case Slower?

Not really. Some delays happen, but most cases move forward quickly after everyone gets their reports. Having a clear medical opinion helps your lawyer move settlement talks.

What If I Disagree With the IME Doctor’s Findings?

You can. Your lawyer can have your doctor write a detailed report. That way you have both sides clearly stated for settlement or trial.

How Often Can They Request an IME?

Depending on your case, they might ask more than once. Usually, they’ll only request an IME again if something new happens, like a change in your condition or new treatment. Your lawyer tracks this.

Can the IME Doctor Look at Old Injuries?

They can review old injuries presented in your claim. But they should focus on how your accident affected you. They can’t go digging into unrelated injuries.

Is the IME Doctor on My Side?

No. They work for the insurance company or the other party. Their goal is to assess severity, not advocate. That’s why having your own lawyer and doctor is essential.

Can I Get a Second IME?

Maybe. If your condition changes significantly, your lawyer may ask for a follow-up exam or new evaluation. You can go again under the right circumstances.

Does Failing the IME Hurt My Claim?

Your goal is to present your honest, full story. There’s no pass or fail. If you answer truthfully and your treatment shows how badly you were hurt, your claim stays strong.

Is IME Fair?

IME is part of the system. The key is understanding it and not doing it alone. When you have legal help, IME can just be another step in your recovery journey not a trap.

What If I Have More Questions?

Your attorney is your guide. Ask anything. We’ll walk with you through scheduling, the day of exam, what to say, and what follows. You don’t face this injury alone.

Summary:
You usually must attend the IME. It’s a common step in car accident cases. The insurance company uses it to check your injuries. Skipping it can weaken your claim. Instead of avoiding it, prepare for it with legal help. Being honest, clear, and supported means the IME becomes just one part of building your case not the hardest part.

If you’re worried or need help preparing, reach out to a trusted Louisiana car accident lawyer. With the right advocate, you protect your rights and step into the IME knowing you’re not walking alone. You’ll have someone experienced, strong, and caring beside you every step of the way.

Need Help Preparing for an IME? Don’t face this alone. The right legal team can make a huge difference in your injury case, especially when the other side is trying to challenge your story. At LJBLegal, we help you get ready, protect your rights, and fight for the care and compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen, explain your options, and stand by your side every step of the way.