Top Seven Personal Injury Myths

Carl Ceder - DFWDefender.com

• Myth #1: PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS ARE “EASY MONEY”

• In a local personal injury case, you may possibly be compensated for costs, or “damages” you incurred or will incur as a result of your injury. Typical personal injury damages include:

• Medical costs (ambulance, ER, hospitalization, surgery, and prescriptions)

• Wage loss due to the injury

• Compensation for pain and strain

MYTH #2: I CAN FILE AT ANY TIME.

• Keep in mind that local “statute of limitations” on personal injury claims may set a time restriction on how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit.

• If your lawsuit is filed after time expires, you may have lost your case forever. F

MYTH #3: THE AT-FAULT DRIVER’S AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY

SHOULD PAY FOR MY MEDICAL BILLS AS THEY ARE INCURRED.

• The at-fault driver’s automobile insurance company will generally not pay for your medical bills caused by a car wreck until a final settlement is reached. In fact, they are not technically required to pay you anything until a court enters a judgment against their insured driver. I

MYTH #4: AS THE PLAINTIFF, I AM GUARANTEED COMPENSATION.

• Understand that each local personal injury case is different and is judged based upon its own unique characteristics and circumstances. There is no guarantee that you will win your case.

MYTH #5: MY CASE WILL TAKE “FOREVER” TO FINISH.

• In reality, many personal injury cases can be resolved within 8-12 months. If the parties elect to settle the matter before filing a lawsuit, a quicker resolution may be reached.

• Myth #6: I HAVE MORE THAN ONE OPPORTUNITY TO BE COMPENSATED FOR MY INJURIES.

• Once a personal injury case is settled with the insurance company or a verdict is entered by the court, the result is typically final. If you settle your case in full with the insurance company, you are waiving your right to pursue further compensation.

• Myth #7: I DON’T NEED TO CONSULT A LAWYER.

• Not all personal injury accidents require legal representation. However, you want to ensure you fully understand the legal issues involved in your case, the procedures and processes involved, and the time limitations for asserting your claim.