Release

A release is documentation stating you give up any future claims you might have against someone else because of a particular accident or event. It is a normal step in filing a personal injury claim that ends in a settlement (a deal made outside of court before going to trial).

A release is typically several pages of legal jargon stating you give up different rights and claims. You can’t get the money you won in the settlement until you sign the release. It’s just a way to protect the other person and ensure you won’t keep suing them even after they pay you.

Even though each release is different, most documents have a few main points:

• The agreed-upon amount of money is final. You can’t ask for any more money if your injuries become worse. You need to have your attorney and physician map out how much treatment you will need for your injury and ask for those future expenses in your lawsuit. A complete diagnosis is crucial before coming to a settlement deal.
• The other person doesn’t admit fault. The other party is an insurance company, and they need to keep this up for their publicity. It doesn’t change the facts of your case or the amount you’ll get paid.

Settlements are a good thing. They help you get the compensation you deserve after an accident, like a car crash or motorcycle accident, without going to court and fighting for a long time. Still, releases are permanent, so you should never sign one unless a skilled personal injury lawyer tells you to do so.