After an accident, you don’t want any lawyer; you want the area’s best lawyer. Here at Wagner Reese, our Indiana personal injury lawyers have gained quite a bit of recognition for their exceptional skills, receiving numerous accolades and acknowledgments. Our team of attorneys are widely recognized as top-tier throughout the Hoosier state and beyond.
We have earned numerous awards from prestigious organizations for our aggressive, energetic, and responsive representation. In 2020, eight of our attorneys were selected to either the Super Lawyers® or Rising Stars lists, which name only a small percentage of all practicing legal professionals nationwide. Three of our attorneys were named in The Best Lawyers in America©, presented by Best Lawyers®. Our founding partners, Attorneys Stephen Wagner and Jason Reese, were among Indiana’s Top 25 Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers® honorees.
Because our team of lawyers is highly experienced and knowledgeable, we’re often asked questions like “Should I sign a release or authorization after my accident?” Let’s dig into the answer to this question, and why it’s important to consult a lawyer before signing anything provided to you.
Signing a Release or Authorization After a Personal Injury Accident
One of the most crucial pieces of advice we can offer after an accident is to tread carefully before signing any release or authorization forms. In the aftermath of an incident, you might find yourself inundated with paperwork from insurance companies, medical providers, or other parties involved. Amidst the confusion and stress, it’s pivotal to understand the implications of what you’re signing and consider a few key factors before putting pen to paper.
Better Understand Releases and Authorizations
A release or authorization form is a legal document that grants permission or relinquishes certain rights, often in exchange for something else. This is typically a settlement or access to medical records. These documents can have far-reaching consequences, impacting your ability to pursue further claims or altering your rights concerning the disclosed information.
Take Time to Assess Your Options
The aftermath of an accident can be emotionally charged, and it’s natural to feel pressured to resolve matters quickly. However, it’s essential to take the time needed to fully comprehend what you’re signing. Rushing through paperwork can lead to unintended consequences that may affect your ability to seek rightful compensation or protect your privacy.
Consult Legal Counsel Before Signing a Release or Authorization
Before signing any release or authorization form, we strongly recommend that you consider seeking legal advice from our team of experts here at Wagner Reese. A personal injury attorney on our award-winning team will review the document, explain its implications, and advise you on the best course of action. They can ensure that your rights are protected and that you are not unknowingly waiving your right to pursue necessary compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or other damages resulting from the accident.
Our Lawyers Will Evaluate the Terms
Carefully read and understand the terms outlined in the release or authorization. Pay attention to any language that limits your ability to take legal action or that extends the scope of what information is being released. Of course, reading a contract isn’t always as easy as it sounds. If the words and verbiage used in your document are confusing, don’t feel discouraged and definitely don’t sign it before you fully understand everything being stated. This is precisely what we can be brought in to help with. You can trust our team of attorneys to ensure that the terms align with your best interests and don’t compromise your future options for recovery.
We Will Assess the Full Impact of the Documentation
Consider the broader implications of signing such documents. Will it impact your ability to claim future medical expenses? Does it restrict your ability to discuss the accident publicly? Understanding the full scope of consequences is critical before making any decisions.
Are There Any Alternatives to Explore?
This isn’t something to handle on your own. You want a strong legal team on your side, working to make sure you aren’t being taken advantage of. We will work with you to explore alternative options before you sign any release or authorization. This may involve our team negotiating on your behalf with insurance companies or other involved parties to ensure you receive fair compensation without forfeiting your rights. An experienced attorney will be able to assist in the negotiations to help protect your interests.
Contact Our Law Firm to Learn More
In the aftermath of an accident, emotions and stress can cloud judgment. However, signing a release or authorization without fully understanding its implications can have lasting effects on your ability to seek justice and fair compensation. Taking the time to consult legal counsel, understanding the terms, and evaluating their impact can make a significant difference in safeguarding your rights and future wellbeing.
Our car accident lawyers have garnered widespread acclaim, thanks to our zealous, dynamic, and rapid legal advocacy. In 2022 alone, a total of eight of our legal experts secured coveted spots on the Super Lawyers® and Rising Stars lists—an accolade that highlights a mere fraction of legal practitioners on a national scale. Three of our accomplished attorneys earned placements in The Best Lawyers in America©, a distinction presented by the renowned publication Best Lawyers®. Among the select few acknowledged as Indiana’s Top 25 Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers® honorees, our founding partners, Attorneys Stephen Wagner and Jason Reese, shine as exemplars of excellence.
These awards are only part of why so many Indiana personal injury victims trust us to answer their questions and move their claims forward. Every case is unique, and seeking personalized legal advice is crucial to navigating the complexities of releases and authorizations after an accident. Your rights and long-term well-being should always be the top priority when considering any legal documents following an accident. Call us at 866-828-0308 to receive the help that you deserve!
