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The process of dealing with another driver’s insurance company after an Indiana car accident is critical to obtaining fair compensation.
Unfortunately, many accident victims are unfamiliar with this process. This can lead them to make understandable mistakes that can have grave consequences on the outcome of their claim.
Thus, it is important to understand how insurance companies handle claims after an accident.
One of the first things you will receive from the other driver’s insurance company is a packet of paperwork. Often included in this paperwork is a document called a release or authorization.
There are different types of auto accident release forms and authorizations. However, generally, these documents ask for your permission for the insurance company to access your medical records.
Sometimes, an insurance company will even ask accident victims to sign a release of liability. By signing a release of liability, car accident victims give up their right to compensation for their injuries.
Thus, you must know what you are signing.
If you have questions about signing an auto accident release form, please contact the Indiana personal injury lawyers at Eskew Law today.
Why Would an Insurance Company Want to Review Your Medical History?
When it comes to car accident claims, one of the most important factors when determining the appropriate amount of damages is the seriousness of your injuries.
Thus, it makes sense for the insurance company to see all your post-accident medical records.
However, most medical releases and authorizations seek broad access to your medical records from before and after the accident.
In short, the insurance company wants this information so that it can come up with any way possible to reduce the value of your claim.
For example, if you suffer neck injuries in an accident, the insurance company will review your medical history for any signs of previous neck injuries or complaints.
If you had a prior neck injury, the insurance company may argue that the injuries you are experiencing are related to your preexisting condition rather than the accident.
Similarly, an insurance company may review your medical records for any inconsistent statement you made to a doctor. For example, if you didn’t complain of neck pain while at the emergency room, the insurance company might argue that your injuries actually occurred after the accident.
The bottom line is that you should always speak with an experienced Indiana car accident lawyer before signing anything at the insurance company’s request.
Remember, insurance companies are not on your side and do not represent your interests; they are out to maximize their profit.
From their perspective, the insurance company wants to settle your claim for as little as possible.
Have You Suffered Injuries in an Indiana Car Accident?
If another driver caused an accident resulting in you suffering severe injuries, do not risk dealing with the insurance company on your own. Instead, reach out to the knowledgeable personal injury lawyers at Eskew Law.
At Eskew Law, we have a deep understanding of how insurance companies operate, what motivates them to offer fair compensation, and the tricks they use to reduce the value of accident victims’ claims.
We offer custom-tailored legal advice based on your individual circumstances, so you have the knowledge necessary to make sound decisions throughout the process.
To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation, reach out to Eskew Law at 317-793-2325 today. You can also connect with us through our online contact form.