Strategy
Independent Medical Exams: What to Expect From the Defense Doctor
• 2 min read
IME doctors work for the defense, not for you. Here's how to prepare and protect your case.
Independent medical exams are rarely independent — the doctor is hired and paid by the defense. Their report is almost always used to minimize your injuries and disputed treatment recommendations.
Prepare for the IME by reviewing your medical history with your attorney. Be ready to describe your injuries, limitations, and treatment history accurately and consistently.
Don't exaggerate, and don't minimize. Both are easy to detect and will damage your credibility.
Bring a friend or family member to the exam if your attorney allows. They can observe and document the duration and scope of the exam.
Most IMEs are short — 15 to 30 minutes — despite producing extensive reports. The brevity itself can sometimes be raised on cross-examination.
Pre-settlement funding helps claimants stay financially stable through the IME process, which often signals a longer litigation timeline.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I wait for my settlement instead?
- If you can comfortably cover your bills, waiting is often the cheaper option. Funding exists for claimants who would otherwise be pressured into accepting a low early offer.
- Is a pre-settlement cash advance a loan?
- No. It is non-recourse funding tied to your personal injury claim. There are no monthly payments, and if your case does not recover, you owe nothing.
- Do I need good credit or a job to qualify?
- No. AARC does not run a credit check and does not require employment or income verification. Approval is based on the strength of your claim and your attorney's representation.
- How fast can I get funded?
- Most approved applicants receive funds in as little as 24 hours once AARC has the case documents from your attorney.
- How much does it cost?
- AARC uses a flat fee rather than compounding monthly interest. Typical advances are $500, $750, or $1,000, and the illustrative payoff at settlement is 2x the advance amount.
About the author
Written by the funding team at AARC — Accident Advance & Resource Center. AARC underwrites pre-settlement cash advances for personal injury claimants and works directly with plaintiff attorneys across 45 states. Our team reviews case documentation daily and writes from that firsthand experience.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Always confirm details with your attorney. Contact AARC or call (800) 297-3834 with questions about your specific case.
