Is a Second Settlement Possible?

by Ben
(Texas)

My mom was hit by a car while she was crossing the street in July of 2008. She suffered a broken hip and a broken leg and still cannot walk right. She has been unable to return to work since.

She hired a lawyer and settled for $5K which she only got $3K of. This sounds extremely low to me. Does she have any recourse left?

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Is a Second Settlement Possible?

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You Have One Shot
by: Law Dee Dah

When your mother accepted her settlement through her attorney, she more than likely signed a "Release" stating, in sum, that she would not seek any further recourse against the insurance company or the individual involved in the collision.

As a result of this very situation, otherwise referred to as buyer's remorse, insurance companies and the insured parties need to be comfortable that a settlement is final and that unhappy injured plaintiffs will not seek a second settlement. As a result, parties must be certain that the settlement agreed to is one with which they will ultimately be happy.

Now, your mother may have an under-insured provision of her own insurance policy through which she may seek additional compensation.

Here's what she should do:

Take a look at the release she signed and see exactly what and more importantly, whom she released. Some of them include blanket language that releases the whole world essentially.

Next, she should check with her own insurance to determine whether she has these cushion provisions that allow her to seek compensation from her own company.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.

Best of luck,

Law Guy

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The accuracy of information provided on this site is not guaranteed. It is generic information for informal purposes only. It is NOT formal legal advice. Before relying on any information found in this site you should consult with a licensed attorney in your state. If you are currently represented by an attorney you should strictly abide by his/her advice and counsel.

Is a Second Settlement Possible?

Comments for Is a Second Settlement Possible?

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Is a Second Settlement Possible?