Theoretically, an INDEPENDENT medical exam (IME) is requested when your insurance company is paying your medical bills under the PIP portion of your claim and they have concerns that you may not be receiving the right treatment or that there is nothing more to be done medically to cure you. Some cynics question whether it might be better named as an INSURANCE medical exam. The insurance company chooses and pays for this doctor; you are obligated to go or they will stop paying your medical bills. Coincidentally, this doctor usually finds that there is no need for further treatment and stop paying your medical bills anyway. This Catch 22 is often the point when Bellingham Washington Personal Injury Attorney Bill Coats is hired by clients realizing that they now need an attorney. While it is always prudent to start with a Bellingham Washington personal injury attorney from the beginning of your claim to avoid mistakes, Bill Coats will represent clients midstream. As a personal injury attorney, Bill Coats is aware of the ruses insurance companies use because, let’s face it, insurance companies know how to make a profit. If you have any doubts about this, just look at how many sports arenas and tall buildings have an insurance company name on them! Also, if the at-fault insurance company asks for an independent medical exam, just say “No!” Personal Injury Attorney Bill Coats will be glad to answer any questions you have about this, whether your accident happened in Whatcom County or anywhere in Washington State.
