Insurance companies often move quickly after an accident, contacting injured people before they have time to fully understand their injuries or what their rights are. One recent Curcio Law case shows just how costly that rush can be for someone who is unrepresented.
What Happened
Our client was rear-ended in what looked like a low-impact collision. Her car had minimal visible damage and she initially felt sore but believed she would recover quickly. Within days of the crash, the at-fault driver’s insurance company reached out with a settlement offer. Before she had spoken to a lawyer or even completed medical evaluations, they convinced her to sign a release for $500 in general damages and $2,500 for future medical bills.
A Serious Injury Hidden Beneath the Surface
Soon after signing, our client’s pain worsened. She eventually sought legal advice and came to us with one big question. Was she stuck with the agreement she signed?
Our firm reviewed the release and discovered it did not include the legally mandatory notice of her right to rescind the agreement, which Virginia law requires under Va. Code section 8.01-425.1. Because of this, we were able to have the release voided and reopen her claim.
Once freed from the invalid agreement, our client underwent further medical evaluation. An MRI revealed injuries far more serious than anyone realized. She had two meniscal tears and a fibula fracture. These were not minor aches. They were real, significant injuries that required treatment and time away from her life and responsibilities.
The Insurance Company’s Argument
Despite the newly discovered injuries, the defense continued to insist this was a minor impact case. They pointed to the limited property damage and tried to minimize the connection between the crash and her injuries. But the medical evidence told a different story. With the release voided and a full picture of her injuries established, we pressed forward.
The Result
One month before trial, the case settled for the full policy limits of $300,000. That is 100x the amount the insurance company originally paid her when she was unrepresented.
Why This Matters
This case shows how easy it is for anyone to feel pressured into making quick decisions after a crash, especially when injuries are not fully known yet.
- Insurance companies often act fast because early settlements benefit them, not you
- Injuries do not always show up immediately
- Releases can take away your rights before you even know the full extent of your injuries
- Consulting an attorney early protects you from signing away your claim for far less than it is worth. And in the event a release has already been signed, sometimes a careful review can reveal options that still remain.
Our client initially walked away with $3,000. With proper representation, she recovered $300,000. The difference speaks for itself. Disclaimer: Past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes. Every case depends on its own facts and circumstances.
If you have been injured in a crash, you deserve the chance to understand your rights before making decisions that affect your health and future. Our consultations are complimentary, and cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means legal fees are only collected if the case is successfully resolved. Put simply, there is no risk in contacting our office to learn more.
