A general release for personal injury is a legal document that relinquishes an injured party’s right to pursue further claims against another party in exchange for compensation. This document is crucial in personal injury cases, as it ensures that once a settlement is reached, the injured party cannot seek additional damages later. Below are three diverse examples that illustrate various scenarios in which a general release might be utilized.
In the case of a car accident, the injured party may settle with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. A general release is often required to finalize the agreement.
In this scenario, the injured party has sustained minor injuries but has agreed to settle for a specific monetary amount. By signing the general release, they acknowledge that they will not pursue any further claims related to the accident. This document protects the insurance company from additional liability.
Example Text:
“I, [Injured Party’s Name], hereby release [At-Fault Driver’s Name] and [Insurance Company Name] from any further claims, demands, or actions related to the car accident that occurred on [Date]. I acknowledge receipt of the settlement amount of [$Amount] as full and final settlement of any and all claims related to this incident.”
Notes:
When an employee is injured on the job, they may agree to a settlement with their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. A general release is necessary to ensure that the employee cannot file any further claims for that injury.
In this example, an employee has suffered a slip and fall injury at work. After negotiations, they accept a lump sum payment for medical expenses and lost wages. By signing the general release, the employee waives their right to future claims regarding this incident.
Example Text:
“I, [Employee’s Name], in consideration of the payment of [$Amount] from [Employer’s Name], do hereby release and discharge [Employer’s Name] and its insurance carriers from any and all claims, demands, or liability related to my workplace injury that occurred on [Date]. This release is given in full and final settlement of all claims arising from this incident.”
Notes:
In a slip and fall case, an individual may negotiate a settlement with a property owner or business. A general release is essential to protect the property owner from future claims regarding the same incident.
Here, a customer slips on a wet floor in a grocery store and suffers a minor injury. After discussing with the store’s insurance, they agree on a settlement amount. The general release ensures that after receiving the compensation, the customer cannot seek additional damages related to the fall.
Example Text:
“I, [Customer’s Name], hereby release [Store Owner’s Name] and [Insurance Company Name] from any and all claims, demands, or actions arising from my slip and fall incident that occurred on [Date]. I acknowledge that I have received a settlement of [$Amount] and understand that this release is a complete and final settlement of any claims related to this incident.”
Notes: