Screwed

That's what it feels like is happening to me with this "settlement" offer I've received from the opposing insurance company for my car accident back in June.

I'm not an expert in deciphering legal speak, but I don't like what I'm reading. I get the jist that they may be trying to avoid having to pay for the repairs on my vehicle.

I was told the settlement was for my medical expenses and "pain and suffering".

But, this passage made me wonder:

"...do hereby and for my heirs, excutors.... etc... acquit and fully discharge "insert name here" and "insurance company" and his, her, thier, etc... from any and all claims, actions, causes of action, demands, rights, damages, costs, loss of service, expenses and compensation whatsoever, which the undersigned now has/have or which may herafter accrue on account of or in any way growing out of.... etc... foreseen and unforeseen bodily and personal injuries and property damage and the consequence thereof resulting from the accident which occurred on June 14th, 2006 near..... Somewhere, Texas."

Here's the deal. They offered me around $3k for my medical bills and "pain and suffering". I'm cool with that. I could ask for more, but it was just an accident, so I'll take whatever they want to give me. BUT, if "property damage" is included in that settlement. HELL NO. My car cost almost $7000 to fix. I'm not going to be left on the hook for $4k if their offer includes those repairs.

The other passage that caught my eye was:

"It is understood and agreed that this settlement is the compromise of a doubtful and disputed claim...."

The hell it is. This company accepted full liability almost immediately. There is no dispute to the best of my knowledge.

Guess I am going to have to look into this before I decide to accept this "settlement".

LB's "Afternoon Delight"

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