Catie Moore
Around 300,000 to 500,000 personal injury cases are filed every year in the US. But fighting these cases is not always easy for an average individual who’s not familiar with the legalese. Let’s look into some of the most common myths and misconceptions about personal injury law so you can get more clarity about these matters and build a strong case to seek justice.
Myth #1: You Don’t Need a Lawyer for a Small Claim
This is a big one. Many people think that if their injuries aren’t life-threatening, they can handle their case on their own. But that’s not always the case. Insurance companies are skilled negotiators, and they’re not going to give you a fair settlement without a fight. A personal injury lawyer knows the ins and outs of the legal system and can help you get the compensation you deserve. If you need one such lawyer for your case, get in touch with experts, such as Brian D. Guralnick injury lawyers, to get the compensation and justice you deserve.
Myth #2: Personal Injury Lawyers Only Care About the Money
While it’s true that lawyers get paid for their services, it’s not the only reason they take on cases. Many lawyers are passionate about helping people who have been injured through no fault of their own. They want to see justice served and help their clients get back on their feet. So, they work on a contingency basis, where they only get paid if they win the case.
Myth #3: You Have to Go to Court
One of the biggest misconceptions about personal injury law is that every case ends up in court. In reality, most cases are settled out of court. According to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, only 3% to 5% of personal injury cases go to trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to try to reach a fair settlement. If they can’t reach an agreement, then the case may go to trial.
Myth # 4: You Can’t Sue a Friend or Family Member
Just because you know someone doesn’t mean you can’t sue them. If they were negligent and caused you harm, you can have a valid claim. However, it’s important to weigh the potential consequences of suing a loved one. But if you’re ready to do it, you must prove that your friend or family member (the defendant) had a duty to look after you. And due to his/her negligence, you suffered the injuries.
Myth #5: You Have to Hire a Lawyer Right Away
You don’t have to hire a lawyer immediately after an accident. However, it’s important to talk to one as soon as possible. They can help you understand your rights and protect your interests. But, if you’ve suffered severe injuries, have huge money involved, or have insurance-related hassles, it’s better to hire a lawyer.
Myth #6: You Can’t Sue a Government Agency
In some cases, you may be able to sue a government agency for negligence. There are multiple cases where someone suffered an injury due to a government body’s negligence, sued the agency, and won the case as well. However, there are specific rules and procedures that you must follow.
Myth #7: You Can’t Sue a Doctor for Medical Malpractice
If a doctor makes a mistake that causes you harm, you can have a medical malpractice claim. However, these cases can be complex, so it’s important to talk to a lawyer. Reports suggest that 15% of personal injury cases are related to medical malpractice, highlighting the dire need to solve them.
Closing Remarks
Personal injury law isn’t as scary or complicated as it might seem. Just an understanding of common myths and misconceptions can help you make informed decisions about your case. And even if you find it challenging to deal with the legal proceedings, just go for an experienced lawyer. A skilled personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Comments