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Medical assessment: how to prepare (what to say)

Practical guide · Updated 2026-07-06

The medical assessment is the most decisive stage of your compensation: it fixes the extent of your injuries, and therefore the offer.

Why the assessment is decisive

The appointed doctor (often for the insurer) evaluates your losses. The report is the basis for the valuation. An assessment faced without preparation very often leads to undervaluation.

Get assistance

You may be accompanied by a victims doctor (who defends your interests against the insurer doctor) and by your lawyer. It is the best way to restore balance on the day.

What to prepare and say

Bring your full file (certificates, reports, imaging, sick leave, invoices). Describe concretely the impact on your daily life: gestures that became difficult, pain, fatigue, sleep, work, activities given up.

Traps to avoid

Do not downplay your pain out of modesty; the doctor notes what you say. Do not exaggerate either: any inconsistency harms your credibility. Stay factual and precise.

After the assessment

You receive the report. If it is incomplete or minimises your injuries, it can be challenged, and a counter-assessment or court expertise requested. Do not sign under pressure.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring someone to the assessment?
Yes. You may be assisted by a victims doctor and by your lawyer. It is strongly advised, especially when the assessment is organised by the insurer.
What if I disagree with the report?
You are not bound by a report you contest: depending on the case, a new assessment, amicable or judicial, can be sought to re-evaluate your losses.

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This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is different and no outcome can be guaranteed.