An independent medical examination is set up by the Defendant's insurance carrier to help bolster their claim that you are either not injured or that your personal injuries are less than what your doctor states.

The doctor that they have selected is paid for by the insurance company and is looking for ways to either discredit you or your treating physician in an effort to reduce the value or your personal injury or medical malpractice case in Connecticut. It is therefore helpful to go over a few basic ground rules to follow when going to an independent medical examination (IME).

1. DO NOT BE LATE

It is helpful to start off on the right foot and to show respect for others. Likewise, the IME doctor should not keep you waiting.

2. BE POLITE

A polite “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon” is sufficient to start things off. Do not try and be overly friendly or to try and get on the doctor's “good side”.

3. ANSWER THE QUESTIONS ASKED

Do not ramble on unless it is about all of the complaints, problems or pain you experience.

4. DO NOT EXAGGERATE

You can only hurt your case by constantly talking about the “excruciating” pain you are experiencing.

5. DO NOT UNDERSTATE YOUR PROBLEMS

Make sure you tell the doctor about all of the pain, discomfort, limitations and problems you experience.

6. KNOW ABOUT YOUR CASE

Make sure you know about your case before you go in to see the IME doctor. For example: what was the date of the accident; what happened; and what doctors have you seen, etc.

7. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS

When the IME doctor asks you to walk, twist or bend do what is asked of you without a big production or explanation.

8. KNOW YOUR LIST OF COMPLAINTS

Be prepared to tell the doctor how this injury has affected you and what activities you can no longer perform.

9. AVOID BEING EMOTIONAL

To the extent you can answer questions in a non-dramatic fashion, the better.

10. BE HONEST

Do not try and con the IME doctor as it can only act to hurt your case.

The above information is only a brief summary of some of the basic items, which should be addressed in a personal injury case. There are a great number of other instructions, which should be followed in such a case. Not knowing your rights or proceeding without the proper representation could severely prejudice your case. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in CT, contact our experienced CT Personal Injury Lawyers at 888-244-5480 to make sure that your rights are fully protected.