Divorce & Family Law
Accidents and injuries can happen no matter who you are for a variety of different reasons. However, if someone else caused your injuries and financial loss, you may have the ability to seek legal help and file a personal injury claim.
Getting hurt in an accident often derails your life in a way you couldn’t predict. Victims can often feel overwhelmed and may hesitate with initiating legal action because of the misconceptions that surround personal injury claims. If you are one of the many that have heard these misconceptions then read on to see why they are debunked.
Myth #1: You Have to Go to Court
This simply isn’t true. Between seeking medical treatment, handling insurance claims, and other formalities you likely have a lot on your plate. Dealing with going to court simply just might not be one of them.
Thankfully, for the vast majority of cases, you will never have to step foot in a court. Most cases never make it to court, let alone go to trial. Most claims are resolved before even reaching a courtroom. Even if it does end up going to court, your lawyer can handle the negotiations, insurance claims, and dealing with the insurance companies while you focus on healing.
Myth #2: Lawyers are Too Expensive
On top of dealing with medical bills, you likely have lost wages due to your accident. Paying for a lawyer might be the last thing that you want to do. Many people shy away from getting legal help because they believe that hiring a lawyer is too expensive.
The truth is most lawyers don’t charge upfront fees. Most work on a contingency fee agreement which means that they only get paid if they win your case.
Myth #3: You Can File at Any Time
Many people find themselves out of luck because of this myth. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries because of the negligence of someone else, you need to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Each state has its own statute of limitations. Depending on your state, you could have two years to file your claim. However, if you do not file in time, then you can miss out on your right to pursue compensation altogether. It is not a quick process and the time it takes to file is counted in the limited time you have.
Myth #4: Personal Injury Settlements Are Quick
This sadly isn’t the case. If you have extensive injuries then it can often be in your best interest to heal some before seeking legal action. That way doctors can accurately estimate your future medical needs and expenses.
According to a personal injury lawyer from our friends at the Law Office of Daniel E. Stuart, P.A., there is no way of knowing how long a personal injury claim will take, as timelines vary from one case to another. No personal injury cases are the same. In general, the more complex your case is the longer it will take.
