Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 1/8/2010

Question
I was in a hit and run accident in which the driver of the other vehicle was unable to be identified. I was seen in the urgent care for neck and shoulder tightness the next day. I had full coverage with/uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage. About six months after my accident, I started having problems what is now diagnosed as a herniated disc which my physician believes to be a result of this accident. I asked my insurance company about reopening the claim since they signed off on it 14 days after the accident. What steps can I take?

Answer
Hi Geneine,

If you signed a release form 14 days after the accident then there is likely not much you can do. You may want to speak with an attorney about this. It may be possible that the claim could be reopened due to the fact that if you signed a release form, it was done without the knowledge that a more serious condition existed. However, the insurance company will likely put up a fight. You will need an agressive attorney to assist you in this process.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh