Can I Make A Claim After I Sign A Release

In Maryland it may be possible to pursue an auto insurance claim even after you have signed a release depending on the specifics of the release that was signed.

A release refers to a legal document that essentially waives an individual's right to pursue further legal action related to a particular incident. If an individual signs the insurance companies’ release related to an auto accident they may be giving up their right to pursue additional claims related to the accident, including additional claims against the other driver or their insurance company. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. According to Maryland law, Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-401.1(a)(1) a release that was signed within thirty days of an accident and without the assistance of an attorney is voidable for a period of sixty days.

Additionally for a fifteen-day period after your accident, no one from the other party’s insurance company should be communicating with you to try to: (1) negotiate or attempt to negotiate a settlement; (2) obtain or attempt to obtain a general release of liability; or (3) obtain or attempt to obtain any statement from you. If any of these things occurred any release you signed may be considered invalid.

If you have questions about your rights or the validity of a release you or a loved one signed please call The Baltimore Accident Center at (443) 499-2919 for a free consultation.