I received a letter from an insurance co titled "Full Release of All Claims With Indemnity Medical Expenses Incurred and not Yet Paid". In the letter they are offering to pay a settlement for pain and suffering, however there is no mention of getting reimbursed for my medical and out of pocket expenses. I have submitted these expenses to the insurance co already. Do these expenses have to be explicitly mentioned in the letter in order for them to be obligated to reimburse me?
Adam A StudnickiPersonal Injury LawyerScottsdale, AZ ·
Talk to a local injury lawyer and have them review the paperwork. It all depends on what the document says, but, generally speaking, insurance companies offer a payment and that's it, and they may ask you to indemnify them for medical liens. The insurance company is looking out only for their own best interests and does not care in the least bit about you. A lawyer can make sure you are protected.
Typically when settling a personal injury claim, you will just get paid a lump sum - which is intended to compensate you for all your damages (including any out of pocket expenses you may have incurred and presented). There are circumstances where specific items of damages are specified for various reasons (including the L&I context). If you feel that the settlement offer is not fair, you really should consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney in your area. Most offer free initial consultations and case evaluations, which could help you decide whether you should consider actually retaining an attorney.
Your committing claim suicide by not having a lawyer. Probably you got a letter/release that says your being paid A , even though we know your bills are 3xA, so have a nice day. You are responsible for paying everyone out of that offer.
Typically these kinds of agreements say that you are getting $XXX.00 for your injuries, and nothing else. If that's what yours says and if you sign it, you are screwed on medical expenses.
Why not schedule a free consultation with a Seattle personal injury attorney? The attorney can tell you exactly what the proposed release agreement means. In addition, he or she can tell you if you are getting a good deal. If not, you may be able to hire the attorney to help you get more. You can ask the attorney if he or she would waive or reduce any fees on the amount that has already been offered. You really have nothing to lose.
