Why cashing can matter
Accepting a payment that's offered as a full settlement can close the claim. Once that happens, you usually can't ask for more, even if new medical bills show up.
What to look for
- Words like "full and final", "settlement of all claims" or "release" on the check or the letter.
- A release form you were asked to sign.
- What the payment is for, such as vehicle damage, medical payments or the injury claim.
- Whether the amount matches what you agreed, if you agreed anything.
The 3-Point Claim Check
- 1
An injury
You were hurt, even if it didn't seem serious at first.
- 2
Someone else at fault
Another driver or company caused the crash.
- 3
Insurance coverage
There's a policy that may cover what happened.
Checks for car repairs
Insurers often pay for car repairs separately from the injury claim. That's usually fine to accept, but ask the adjuster to confirm in writing that the payment is only for property damage and doesn't settle your injury claim.
Checks from your own insurer
Payments from your own policy, like medical payments coverage, are usually separate from your claim against the other driver. Read the paperwork anyway.
If you're not sure
Don't deposit it yet. A check sitting in a drawer for a few days is better than a claim you can't reopen. You can ask an attorney to look at it, and the first conversation is free.