One day when I was driving on the freeway, I was completely blindsided by another car pummeling down the hill. I didn't know what to do or what went wrong, but I knew things were bad. I couldn't feel my feet at first, and my face was covered in liquid that turned out to be blood. When the ambulance arrived I could see the concern on their faces, and it was frustrating to know what was about to come. Fortunately, I was able to get great medical care, and talk with a personal injury attorney that helped me to sort out everything else. Read this website to find out how accident attorneys can help you to make a difference in your own life.
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Your workers' compensation benefits undoubtedly mean a lot to you, and losing them would definitely cause untold problems. You may not be healed enough from your work-related injury to return to work, or you might suspect that you have a permanent injury, but if you are asked to participate in a special type of workers' comp medical exam you must comply. This exam, known as an independent medical exam (IME), can be a bit nerve-wracking since so much is on the line, so read on so that you can feel more confident during this experience.
Respect the doctor
You might be resentful about the need to be examined by yet another doctor, but regardless of how you feel, be polite. It won't help your case if you are rude to the doctor, and even less than friendly doctors deserve to be treated with respect. No matter how you are treated by the IME doctor, restrain yourself from showing your feelings during the exam.
Be accurate and honest
Exaggerating and being less than truthful can only make the IME doctor doubt all of your information. Don't downplay your pain or discomfort, however. Only you know the extent of your injuries and how they have changed your ability to do your job. You should also be aware that you might have been under surveillance by the workers' comp carrier. Many carriers seek to cut down on workers' comp fraud by video-recording or photographing claimants when in out in public. If you tell the IME doctor, for example, that you are unable to drive, be honest since there is a good chance that your movements have been recorded.
Take a friend and bring your documents
You cannot be expected to remember the myriad of treatments, diagnostic tests, correspondence, claim forms, and more, and you are allowed to have your paperwork with you at the time of the exam. Be sure that it is organized by date so that you can more easily refer to your notes when you need to. You might consider having a friend or loved one accompany you to the exam. You are permitted to have company and this can not only make you feel more comfortable but also be helpful to have someone with you to take notes during the exam. If you attend the exam alone, be sure to do a brain-dump as soon as possible afterward and note everything you can remember about the exam.
You will be hearing about the results of your IME shortly after the exam, and if you have been told to return to work, to accept a settlement, or that your claim has been denied, be sure to seek workers' compensation attorney services at once.
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