The Insurance Company Wants You to See Their Doctor — Here's the Truth About IMEs

During litigation, the defense may request that you attend an Independent Medical Examination (IME) — sometimes called a Defense Medical Examination (DME). Don’t let the word “independent” fool you. This doctor is hired and paid by the insurance company, and their job is to minimize your injuries.

What an IME Really Is

The insurance company selects a doctor — usually one who regularly performs IMEs for defense firms — to examine you and write a report. The report almost always says your injuries are less severe than your treating doctor believes, your symptoms are inconsistent with the accident, you’ve reached maximum medical improvement sooner than your doctor thinks, or your need for future treatment is minimal.

This report is then used to justify a lower settlement offer or to attack your credibility at trial.

Your Rights

If your case is in litigation, Arizona law requires you to attend a properly noticed IME. You can’t refuse without consequences. But you have rights: you can have someone accompany you (an observer or your attorney’s representative), you can record the examination, you should document exactly how long the exam lasts, and you should note every test performed.

How to Handle It

Be polite and cooperative. Answer questions honestly. Don’t exaggerate — but don’t minimize either. Tell the doctor about every symptom, every limitation, every bad day. They’re looking for inconsistencies between what you tell them and what you’ve told your treating doctor, so be thorough and consistent.

The Law Badgers prepare every client for IMEs. We know the doctors the defense uses, we know their tendencies, and we know how to counter their reports. Call (833) DTF-IGHT.