Once you’ve signed a settlement agreement for a car accident claim, can you return and ask for more money? Maybe your injuries became worse than expected or new health complications suddenly appeared. Here is what you need to know.
Most car accident settlements include a release of liability form that you’ll have to sign when accepting the offer. By signing it, you agree not to seek further compensation or hold the other party responsible for anything further related to the accident. It’s a legal way of saying the case is closed.
This means that even if you discover new injuries after signing, you cannot reopen your claim to seek additional compensation – unless the settlement specifically allowed for future medical treatment or left some issues open. However, most settlement agreements cover all known and unknown injuries tied to the accident.
When you might reopen a claim
There are rare situations where reopening a claim after settling is possible. For instance, if the insurer or the other party lied or hid information that affected your decision, you might have grounds to challenge the settlement. Similarly, courts might be willing to review your case if you were pressured into signing or didn’t understand what you were agreeing to.
Don’t rush to settle your claim
Take time to carefully review your injuries, damages and future needs before you accept a settlement for your claim, and ensure it covers everything. Remember, you always have the right to reject a lowball offer and negotiate for a higher amount.
If you’re unsure if you should settle your car accident claim or how much it’s worth, reaching out for legal guidance can help you understand your rights and options as you seek the best possible settlement.