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Car accidents continue to cause serious injuries to Americans of all ages. When these accidents occur, they often leave drivers and passengers with unpayable medical bills. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, the total cost of injury-causing car accidents in the U.S. surpassed $460 billion in 2019 alone.
If you have medical bills you are struggling to pay, receiving prompt payment of your insurance claim may be one of your more important goals. Still, you probably want to think twice before exchanging your medical privacy for a quick settlement.
Do you value your medical privacy?
A general medical release gives the insurer your permission to obtain and review your complete medical records. Even if you have nothing to hide, you may be uneasy about letting a stranger examine details from your medical history. Remember, because it gives broad authorization, a general medical release may allow the insurer to learn about every medical issue you have ever had during your lifetime.
Do you want a fair settlement?
There is an equally valid reason to be uncomfortable with a general medical reason. Specifically, the insurer may use your medical records against you. That is, the company’s representatives may uncover something the company can rely on to deny your injury claim. You also are at risk of receiving an unfairly low settlement offer.
Do you know your rights?
Typically, you have the right to talk to an attorney before answering questions from the insurance company. This right usually extends to any forms the company’s representative asks you to sign. Ultimately, rather than potentially jeopardizing your injury claim by signing a general medical release, it is advisable to exercise these valuable rights.