The hours, days and even weeks after a serious car accident can be a blur. After all, not only may you have excruciating pain, but you also may have difficulty paying for the expensive medical care you need. Convincing an insurance adjuster to fast-track the processing of your claim may be one of your top priorities.
Even if he or she comes from your insurance company, the adjuster may not have your best interests in mind. Therefore, before you make any statements or sign any forms, it is advisable to seek legal counsel. This is especially true with blanket medical authorizations.
What is a BMA?
Insurance companies have a variety of standard forms they use when processing accident-related claims. One of these is a BMA. When you sign a BMA, you agree to allow the insurance company to access all your medical records.
Remember, not only can the adjuster see records that directly relate to the car accident and your injuries, but he or she may also look at all other parts of your medical files.
How can BMAs be harmful?
If permitting insurance company employees to scrutinize your medical records makes you feel uneasy, you are certainly not alone. Beyond your mental discomfort, though, a BMA may be harmful in the following ways:
- You may lose your right to medical privacy.
- The adjuster may find something in your medical records to use against you.
- You may receive a low settlement offer.
- You may receive a claim denial.
- You may lose your future insurance coverage.
Ultimately, even if means a delay in the processing of your insurance claim, refusing to sign a BMA may improve your odds of receiving a fair settlement after a serious car accident.
