Six Common Myths of Auto Accidents

Being in an auto accident is a terrifying situation that many of us experience at least once in our lifetime. When you have been in an accident, it is helpful to know what your rights are and how you can get the help you need. An experienced auto accident lawyer will likely be one of your best resources, should an auto accident affect your life.

Although none of us want to imagine ourselves in an auto accident, it is likely such an accident will occur. Knowing what to expect when one does happen can help prepare you for the confusion such circumstances create. Below are six of the most common myths about auto accidents, to help you avoid confusion if you are in a collision one day.

Whoever is responsible for the wreck will have to cover all of my costs.

When another party is at fault in an accident, you are not automatically compensated for all of the expenses you must pay. Their insurance company will actually work to undercompensate you. Only a judge or jury can rule what the insurance company has to pay. You will likely gain money for medical expenses and the cost of repairing your car, but other costs will not be recovered without a successful claim.

Any lawyer will be able to handle my auto accident case.

Having just “any lawyer” is not going to bring the same results in court that a personal injury lawyer will be able to gain. This is because personal injury lawyers know the specific laws of car accident cases and how to successfully stand up against insurance companies. An established personal injury lawyer is also known by the insurance companies in your state. If you hire a personal injury attorney with a solid reputation, the insurance company will know that they are less likely to have a good outcome by fighting you and your lawyer, and may even settle in your favor more quickly to avoid costly litigation.

Going to the hospital after my auto accident will cost too much.

Many people avoid going to the hospital after their accident because of the cost. But avoiding the hospital is actually bad for your case. Your injuries must be proven in order to gain compensation for expenses and this proof does not exist without seeing a doctor. Not going to the hospital also indicates to the insurance company that you do not believe you are injured after the accident, making proving your case harder. Additionally, many injuries are not felt for hours or even more than a day after an accident. You may have injuries you are not yet aware of, with a trip to the hospital being the best way to prepare for what is to come.

The other driver’s insurance company will settle with me.

Many people mistakenly believe that the other driver’s insurance company will settle quickly because their insured driver is at fault. But the reality is that insurance companies are well armed for a court fight and would rather gamble that you will succumb to their will, rather than stand up to them through a claim. Insurance companies have attorneys at their disposal for little expense and they will use these lawyers to pay as little as possible. This is why it is important to gain the help and guidance of an experienced car accident attorney as soon as you can after the accident. A personal injury lawyer will know how best to proceed and what you should get as compensation from the insurance company, fighting for you to get that amount.

Large punitive damage amounts will be the outcome when serious injuries result from an accident.

Although some cases bring substantial amounts for punitive damages, this is rarer than people realize. Punitive damages are often only awarded when death or serious, permanent physical injury is caused. Accident victims should not hold out hope for large settlement after their wreck. Instead, the damages will usually cover incurred costs and payment for what is expected in the long term. This will not often be in the millions. 

I can take time off from work after the accident and the insurance company will pay for lost wages.

People often expect that they can miss work after their accident, with lost income regained from what the insurance company will pay. It is possible to receive compensation for lost wages as part of a successful claim. But this is only the situation when injuries prevent you from working. Taking time off without serious injury will not likely result in any repayment from the insurance company, especially since they will use their own medical professionals to evaluate your injuries. If you can work after your wreck, you should.

Legal Help When You Are in an Auto Accident

When you have been in an auto accident, as most of us likely will be at some time in our lives, it is important to talk with a personal injury car accident lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, clear up any other myths or misconceptions about the legal process, and gain the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.

If you have been in an auto accident that was not your fault, call the car accident lawyers of Cantor Crane now at 602.254.2701 for a free, no-obligation consultation regarding your case.