If you’ve been the victim of an injury caused by another person’s negligence, you may be considering filing a personal injury claim. However, before you do, it’s important to dispel some common misconceptions about personal injury cases.
Misconception #1: Personal injury cases take forever to resolve.
While it’s true that some personal injury cases can take several months or even years to resolve, this is not always the case. In fact, many personal injury cases are settled out of court within a few months.
The length of time it takes to resolve a personal injury case depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the complexity of your case, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate.
Misconception #2: Minor injuries aren’t worth filing a claim for.
Even if you only have minor injuries, you may still be entitled to compensation. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can add up quickly, even for minor injuries.
If you’re not sure whether your injuries are worth filing a claim for, it’s always a good idea to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Misconception #3: You can’t sue for emotional distress.
In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, you may also be able to recover damages for emotional distress. This includes things like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you’ve suffered emotional distress as a result of your injuries, it’s important to keep track of your symptoms and document the impact they’ve had on your life.
Misconception #4: A personal injury claim will ruin the defendant’s life.
Most personal injury claims are settled with the defendant’s insurance company. This means that the defendant will not have to pay out of pocket, and their insurance rates will not go up.
In fact, filing a personal injury claim can actually help to prevent future accidents. By holding the defendant accountable for their negligence, you can help to deter others from making the same mistakes.
Misconception #5: You don’t need a personal injury attorney if you have insurance.
While it’s true that your insurance company may be willing to offer you a settlement, it’s always a good idea to have an experienced personal injury attorney review your case.
An attorney can help you to get the maximum compensation you deserve. They can also handle all of the paperwork and negotiations involved in your case, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Additional Tips for Filing a Personal Injury Claim
- Seek medical attention immediately. This will help to document your injuries and establish the extent of your damages.
- Report the accident to the police or a property owner. This will create a record of the accident and help to support your claim.
- Collect evidence. This could include photos, videos, witness statements, and medical records.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Filing a personal injury claim can be a complex process, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can increase your chances of success.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact Joey Gilbert Law for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
