It is possible that you can still reach a settlement in your workers’ comp. case after you submit to an IME, short for Independent Medical Examination. If you’ve been asked to undergo an IME by the insurance company, there are potential changes on the horizon in your workmans comp PA case. This raises the question of how an IME will affect your case and the possibility that you will receive a settlement. Rest assured, an IME is a common part of the workers’ comp. process, and many injured workers – especially those represented by a Pearson Koutcher lawyer — receive a favorable settlement after participating in an IME with an insurance company doctor.
An Independent Medical Examination (IME) is an evaluation of you by a doctor hired by the insurance company. Ideally, the doctor is supposed to determine objectively whether you have fully recovered from your work injury and are able to return to work. However, these doctors are often not objective and provide an opinion that is in the best interests of the insurance company. The insurance company is permitted to schedule you for periodic IMEs (a maximum of two per year), and you are required to attend. If you don’t, a Workers’ Compensation Judge will likely compel you to attend. Based on the opinion of the IME doctor, the insurance company may file a petition to terminate, suspend, or modify your benefits. Don’t worry, though — if you disagree with the opinion of the IME doctor and want to contest the petition filed against you based on that opinion, you can hire an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer near me – we recommend Pearson Koutcher Law — to fight this petition before the Judge.
Although you can theoretically continue to receive weekly workmans comp PA payments indefinitely, often cases are resolved by a settlement. In this process, you would agree to give up future benefits in exchange for a lump sum of money. There are various reasons for settling, such as you can obtain a quicker resolution as opposed to fighting your case before a Judge. If you have undergone an IME and are interested in settling your case, contact Pearson Koutcher Law. One of our workers’ compensation lawyers near you will attempt to obtain a favorable lump sum settlement on your behalf from the insurance company.
If you have more questions about your workmans comp PA claim, settlements, IMEs, or anything else pertaining to your claim, we urge you to contact Pearson Koutcher Law today. One of our experienced lawyers can answer all your questions about your case during a free consultation. So if you are in need of a workers’ compensation lawyer near me, please call Pearson Koutcher Law today.