After you complete treatment, your doctor will inform you that you have reached a plateau called “maximum medical improvement”. This generally means that although the doctor can help you on an “as needed” basis, he or she has done everything they can to get you back to your pre-accident state of health. Many times, this is not 100% and a person is left with a residual impairment as a result of an automobile accident. These impairments can range from sore muscles and ligaments to broken bones or paralysis. Depending on the seriousness of the impairment, the doctor will evaluate your medical condition and render an opinion as to whether or not you have suffered a permanent impairment within a reasonable degree of medical probability. This information is important because it allows your attorney to then demand from the “at fault” party’s insurance carrier payment for you out of pocket expenses and pain and suffering. It is important that you understand this portion of your claim and follow your doctor’s instructions for your continued care and well being.