After a car accident in Fort Myers, you may receive a settlement offer from the insurance company and a document called a “release of liability.” It might seem like a standard formality, but signing it without fully understanding its consequences can cost you. This legally binding agreement can permanently close your case and eliminate your right to further compensation.
What Is a Release of Liability in a Car Accident Case?
A release of liability is a legal agreement between the parties involved in a car accident, typically the injured party and the insurance company representing the at-fault driver. By signing this form, the injured person agrees to accept a settlement and waive any future claims related to the accident.
The release of liability form for car accidents typically includes:
- The names of the parties involved
- A brief description of the accident
- The amount of money being paid to settle the claim
- A statement releasing the insurer and the at-fault party from any further liability
- A signature and date acknowledging agreement
Once signed, the release is final. You cannot ask for more money later, even if your injuries worsen or new symptoms appear.
What’s Included in a Release of Liability Form?
A typical release of liability form will contain several key elements:
- Identification of all parties involved in the settlement
- A description of the incident, including the date and nature of the accident
- The total settlement amount being offered
- Legal language stating that the injured party waives the right to pursue any additional legal action
- A clause that this release covers all known and unknown injuries
- Signature lines for both parties
These forms are written in broad legal terms to protect the insurance company and the at-fault party. Therefore, it is crucial to have a lawyer review the document before you sign.
Risks of Signing a Release of Liability Too Soon
It is common for insurance companies to offer settlements quickly after an accident. They may hope you will accept a low offer before fully understanding your injuries. However, signing a release of liability prematurely can hurt your case.
Some of the risks include:
- Settling before the full extent of your injuries is known
- Waiving your right to claim additional damages for ongoing treatment or future complications
- Receiving less than what your case is worth
Once the release is signed, there is little a lawyer can do to reopen the case unless you can prove fraud or duress.
When to Contact a Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer
You should speak to a Fort Myers car accident lawyer before signing any paperwork from the insurance company. Your lawyer can:
- Evaluate the fairness of the settlement
- Estimate the total cost of your injuries, including future treatment
- Negotiate a higher settlement on your behalf
- Ensure the release does not contain overly broad language that limits your rights
A Fort Myers personal injury lawyer can protect you from making a costly mistake and help you make decisions in your long-term best interest.
Don’t Sign Away Your Rights | Let Wolf & Pravato Review Your Case
If you’ve been asked to sign a release of liability after a Fort Myers car accident, get legal guidance before making any decisions. At Wolf & Pravato, we have helped clients recover fair compensation for serious injuries. Our team has secured multimillion-dollar settlements, including a $3.85 million award, for accident victims who initially received lowball offers.
Call (844) 643-7200 today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
FAQs
- What does a release of liability do in a car accident case?
It legally ends your right to seek further compensation for injuries or damages related to the crash. - Can I sue after signing a release of liability form?
Usually not. Once signed, the release prevents any future legal claims involving the same incident. - Should I sign a release if I’m still being treated for my injuries?
No. Wait until your treatment is complete and have a lawyer review the form before signing. - Can a lawyer help if I already signed a release?
In most cases, no. However, if you were pressured or misled, an attorney may explore limited options. - Is a release of liability necessary in every accident settlement?
Yes, it is standard practice. But you should never sign one without understanding what rights you are giving up.
