Personal injury cases are often wrongly perceived, with many victims refusing or delaying to claim compensation. Misinformation may cause people to accept unfair settlements or not file a case against the party whose fault led to the injuries.
For those who are uncertain of their rights, advice from the personal injury attorneys at Maginnis Howard and other top law firms can be beneficial. Such attorneys help victims become aware of their choices and worthy of what they merit.
Here are the common myths related to personal injury cases and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: Minor Injuries Aren’t Worth Filing a Claim
The majority of people believe that if the injury seems minor at first, it’s not worth claiming. But some injuries don’t show their full impact until later. Illnesses such as whiplash, internal injuries, or concussions will often develop over time and cause prolonged pain or unexpected hospital bills.
Filing a claim ensures medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs are covered. Even if the injury seems minor today, it is best to visit a doctor and an attorney to find out the long-term effect.
Myth 2: Insurance Companies’ Initial Offers Are the Best You’ll Get
Insurance companies often present their first settlement offer as if it’s the best or only option. However, insurers prioritize minimizing payouts to protect their bottom line. The initial offer is usually much lower than what a victim is entitled to.
Many claimants who accept these early settlements later find that their compensation doesn’t cover ongoing medical expenses or lost wages. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help in negotiating a fairer settlement that accounts for all damages.
Myth 3: Not Wearing a Seatbelt Nullifies Your Claim
Some people assume that if they weren’t wearing a seatbelt at the time of an accident, they automatically lose the right to file a personal injury claim.
While not wearing a seatbelt may reduce the amount of compensation due to contributory negligence, it does not completely bar a claim. Courts consider various factors, including the cause of the accident and the degree to which seatbelt use would have affected injuries. Each case is unique, and victims may still be entitled to partial compensation.
Myth 4: Personal Injury Claims Contribute to a ‘Compensation Culture’
There is a widespread belief that personal injury claims are excessive and that people file lawsuits just to make easy money. In reality, the majority of personal injury claims are legitimate cases where individuals have suffered real harm due to negligence.
The idea of a “compensation culture” is largely a media-driven myth, and statistical data does not support the notion that frivolous lawsuits are rampant. Filing a claim is not about exploiting the system—it’s about securing fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and suffering caused by someone else’s negligence.
Myth 5: You Have Ample Time to File a Claim
Many people don’t realize that personal injury claims have strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, which vary by state and type of injury. Waiting too long to file a claim can result in losing the right to seek compensation altogether.
Evidence can also become harder to collect as time passes, weakening the case. If you’ve been injured, it’s essential to act quickly and consult with a legal professional to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
