IME vs. Your Treating Physician: What's the Difference?
During an injury claim, you may be asked to attend an 'independent medical examination,' or IME. Despite the name, it is important to understand how an IME differs from your own treating doctor.
Your treating physician
This is the doctor who actually cares for you — diagnosing, treating, and following your recovery over time. Their records document your injuries and are central to your claim, because they reflect an ongoing relationship focused on getting you better.
The insurance IME
An IME is an exam by a doctor chosen and paid by the insurance company or defense, usually a one-time visit. Despite being called 'independent,' the examiner is selected by the other side, and their opinion often minimizes injuries or attributes them to something else. Knowing that going in helps you prepare.
The bottom line
An IME is not your doctor and is not there to treat you. Being honest, consistent, and careful at an IME — and letting your treating records tell the real story — protects your claim against a report written to undercut it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to attend an insurance IME?
Sometimes you can be required to, depending on the stage of the claim, and sometimes not. Because an IME is arranged by the other side, it is wise to get advice before attending one.
Is the IME doctor really independent?
The examiner is chosen and paid by the insurance company or defense, so their opinion often favors the side that hired them. Your own treating doctor's records usually carry the fuller, more reliable picture.
This is general information about Car Accidents injury claims, not legal advice. Every situation is different.
The law depends on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to car accidents.
Not sure which applies to you?
A quick, confidential review can help you decide — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.