Expert: Anne - 8/13/2009

Question
I have reached a settlement number for a "minor" loss due to a not-at-fault auto claim. I have remaining debts of <$6k with hospital, EMT, & care providers which I have been paying down. All bills were filed against ME directly, & NOT with either my health or auto insurers in order to avert subrogation. Except for the prop. damage pymt to repair my car made by the "at-fault" carrier, no other payments have been made other than as stated.  In reading the CR form, the language is very intimidating with regard to releases and indemnities. How in the world does one validate that there's nothing else out there that I could be responsible for out of my settlement amt? I'm wishing there was a checklist of things to validate before signing the CR form.  I've seen ads in the "Personals" of the newspaper that seem to be written for this very purpose so nothing "hidden" can later be claimed. When is that warranted? Also then, when paying off the remaining debts, should I have the recipients sign something that protects ME from future claims of further debt under this incident? Mayb it's paranoia, but I just don't want to overlook a "gotcha" someplace...  Thank you, and welcome back.

Answer
Hello Mark,

You have to be very careful with CR forms and the legal language, this can get you on that gotcha place. You need to make sure all debts arising out of the car accident are paid or make sure they will be paid on your behalf. Your insurance company should be dealing with this (the PIP coverage). They will settle with all the medical providers (up to the your limits).If you do not have PIP, then you need to make sure everything is final before you submit payment. If you do sign and there is something hidden, you will be responsible for that payment.

I hope this helps,

Please see:

http://www.auto-insurance-claim-advice.com/bodily-injury-claim.html

Good Luck
Anne
http://www.quirogalawoffice.com/