Getting into an auto accident is something you may experience at some point in your life. Here are some myths debunked that can help you be better prepared.
If you drive for an extended period of time, it is inevitable that you will get into an auto accident. Getting in an accident can be a confusing time for most people, but you will be better prepared if you know exactly what to expect. While there are dozens of auto accident myths, these are the six most common that everyone believes are true.
1. All My Expenses Will Be Paid
Just because the other person is at fault in the accident, that does not mean you are going to have all of your subsequent expenses paid by their insurance company. While there is a good chance that you will get some money back if the other party is at fault, the exact amount can only be determined by a judge. Medical expenses and car repair costs will most likely be returned, but other expenses related to the accident, including attorney fees, will not be returned.
2. Any Lawyer Can Handle The Case
If you want the best chance to get awarded the most money possible, then it is a good idea to have an extremely qualified lawyer. Personal injury laws are constantly changing in each state, so you will want a lawyer that only handles these types of cases each day. Using a lawyer that you are already familiar with may not be the best idea if they do not specialize in personal injuries.
3. I Should Not Go to Hospital
A lot of people believe that it is a good idea to avoid going to the hospital after an auto accident because it is too expensive. This is actually one of the worst things you can do for your case. There is no way to prove your injuries if you do not go to a hospital and see a doctor. While the medical bills may be high, they will most likely get paid by the other party's insurance company if they are at fault. Not going to the hospital after the accident basically admits that you were uninjured during the accident to the insurance company.
4. The Insurance Company Will Settle
There is a strong belief among most people that insurance companies will quickly settle their cases to avoid incurring more lawyer fees and paying more damages during a lawsuit. Since insurance companies are constantly working with lawyers, they pay out a flat fee for each case. Prolonging the case is most likely not going to cost the insurance company any more money. If the other party thinks they can eventually pay out less money, then they are not going to end the lawsuit until they are comfortable with the settlement. The goal of every auto accident lawsuit should be getting what you believe you deserve.
5. Punitive Damages Will Be Paid for Serious Injuries
Everyone has heard stories of people earning large sums of money after being seriously injured in an auto accident. While there are cases where this is true, it happens far less than most people think. Punitive damages are usually only paid out because of a death or serious disfigurement/impairment. A large settlement after an auto accident should not be something you hope for because it usually takes a catastrophic event. It is still possible to get some punitive damages if the injury is serious enough, but do not start planning to spend your millions.
6. I Don't Have to Work After Accident
People think they can get some free vacation after an auto accident because they will just recover their lost wages from the insurance company. While it is entirely possible to receive money for lost wages, this will only occur if you were truly unable to work. The insurance company will use their doctors to get all of the information they need on your injuries. If you can work following the accident, then you should go to work because you will not recover your lost wages.
Now that you know six auto accident myths, you should know exactly what to expect when your lawsuit starts. Being honest and keeping realistic expectations is the only way to get what you are owed after an auto accident.
