Here’s Why You Should Think Twice Before Signing the Insurer’s Medical Release Form After a Car Accident

If you were recently hurt in an auto wreck and you’re putting together a car accident claim, you will probably receive a dozen or more documents from the liable party’s carrier. You’ll be expected to sign most, if not all, of them, and the insurance adjuster may even tell you that they cannot process your claim until you do.

Generally speaking, it’s wise to seek legal counsel before signing anything. Personal injury claims are incredibly complex, and it’s hard to be sure what you might be agreeing to without talking to a knowledgeable attorney first.

This is especially true when it comes to healthcare authorization forms. Here are two of the biggest reasons to think twice before signing the insurer’s medical release form:

Loss of Privacy

The healthcare authorization form gives the insurance company the right to access your medical records. In addition to any documents stemming from the accident, these records may include documents from past treatments and procedures. Essentially, they could encompass your entire medical history.

In other words, by signing the medical release form, you’re giving up control over your personal medical information. In addition to threatening your privacy, this could have devastating ramifications for your claim.

Misuse of Information

Ideally, the insurance company will only use your medical records to confirm the extent of your injuries and then quantify the severity of the associated damages. Unfortunately, in reality, they may use the information to reduce your claim or challenge your credibility altogether.

If you have a pre-existing condition, for example, the adjuster may try to argue that your current injuries stem from that, rather than from the car accident. This could make it incredibly difficult to seek the compensation you deserve.

What If the Insurance Adjuster Applies Immense Pressure?

Sadly, insurance carriers are not above taking advantage of car accident victims to protect their bottom line. This includes pressuring claimants into signing healthcare release authorization forms with terms that are not in their best interests.

During such a stressful time, you shouldn’t have to dodge repeated requests from the opposing party to sign something that has the potential to jeopardize your claim. Thankfully, you won’t have to if you enlist legal help. The first time the adjuster reaches out after you’ve hired an attorney, you can cease all further communication by referring them to the law firm representing you.

Speak with a West Palm Beach Car Accident Attorney

At Donaldson & Weston, we understand the complexities and challenges that car accident victims face. That’s why we’re here to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.

If you’ve been asked to sign a medical release form, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, so we can help you determine how best to proceed. Call 561-299-3999 or submit our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach.