Clear, Objective Evaluations for Personal Injury Cases
After an accident or injury, there are times when a case requires more than just medical records. An impairment rating provides an objective measurement of how much an injury affects a person’s ability to function. At Sterling Orthopedic Pain and Spine, our board-certified specialists provide precise impairment ratings that help personal injury attorneys, insurers, and courts move cases forward with confidence.
What is an Impairment Rating?
An impairment rating is a medical evaluation that measures the permanent loss of function after an injury. It is often expressed as a percentage, based on guidelines such as the AMA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment.
For patients, it helps clarify how much an injury has changed daily function. For attorneys and insurers, it provides a standardized way to support claims and settlements.
When Are Impairment Ratings Needed?
Impairment ratings are often requested in cases involving:
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Auto accidents
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Workers’ compensation claims
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Personal injury lawsuits
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Disability evaluations
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Insurance disputes
Why Attorneys Choose Sterling for Impairment Ratings
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Board-certified physicians: Experts in spine, orthopedic, and pain-related injuries
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Objective, defensible reports: Written for use in settlement or litigation
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Experience with PI cases: Trusted by attorneys across Salt Lake County and surrounding areas
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Timely turnaround: Reports typically delivered within 2 business days to keep cases moving forward
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Court-ready expertise: Providers available for deposition or testimony when needed
What to Expect
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Medical review: Records, imaging, and past treatments are carefully analyzed.
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Physical exam: A thorough evaluation of the injury and its impact on function.
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Standardized scoring: Based on recognized guidelines for consistency and accuracy.
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Detailed report: Delivered to the requesting attorney, insurer, or court.
For Patients
If you’re here looking for care, please note: Impairment ratings are evaluations, not treatments. If you are seeking pain relief after an accident or injury, explore our treatment services to find the right care for you.
For Attorneys
Our team delivers objective impairment ratings that hold up in depositions, mediations, and courtrooms. We understand the demands of PI cases and provide the documentation you need to advocate for your clients.
FAQs About Impairment Ratings
What is the difference between impairment and disability?
Impairment measures physical or functional loss. Disability refers to how that loss affects a person’s ability to work.
Who requests an impairment rating?
Attorneys, insurers, employers, or government agencies may request one for legal or insurance purposes.
Do patients receive treatment during the evaluation?
No. Impairment ratings are medical opinions only — they do not include treatment.
How long does the process take?
Most evaluations take 30–60 minutes, with reports delivered within 2 business days.
Are your ratings recognized in court?
Yes. Our providers follow standardized medical guidelines and are available for testimony when needed.
Take the Next Step
When your case needs clarity, Sterling Orthopedic Pain and Spine provides impairment ratings you can trust — precise, objective, and defensible.
Contact us today to schedule an impairment rating or to partner with our team on your next personal injury case.
