Following your involvement in a motor vehicle collision that left you injured, you may be in a position in which you can file a claim against the party responsible for the accident in order to obtain compensation for your losses. Your chances of winning such a claim are largely dependent upon the Injury Lawyer in Burlington you hire, and whether or not you have solid proof of your losses and that these losses stem from the accident, among other things.
Once the opposition has found out that you plan on suing them, they will have the right to hire a doctor to examine you in order to prove that your injuries are as severe as you claim them to be. This examination is what is called the defense medical examination, and it will end with a report being filed by the doctor who conducted the examination. Furthermore, this doctor will have also agreed to testify their findings in court, should the defense ask them to do so, and should the case end up on trial.
Won’t the defense medical examiner be biased?
No, absolutely not. While the doctor will be hired by the defense, they are also still a doctor who is bound by a code of ethics, just as any other medical practitioner is. As a result, they are required to treat you like any other patients – objectively and clinically. However, if you are worried about the examination regardless, there is no harm in conducting some research so you know what to expect and what to watch out for.
Don’t exaggerate, don’t speak about the claim, and be respectful!
Never exaggerate the severity of your injuries. Simply state your symptoms, be open with how much they are impacting your life, and be thorough in how you explain the progression of your condition. You will want the doctor to be able to draw up a structured and detailed report which will back up the medical records, you have used and will use to prove your claim.
The examination also isn’t the time to speak about your claim. Don’t mention it, don’t inquire about it, and certainly don’t mention anything about settlement negotiations or awards. Just treat them like a regular doctor: with friendliness and respect. It is best to talk to your lawyer, before you get it done and they will walk you through the process.
Arrive fifteen minutes early
It is extremely rude to be late, so be sure to arrive fifteen minutes early for your medical defense examination appointment. If you aren’t on time, the doctor may mention it in their report which would shed bad light onto you.
