Personal injury claims are the subject of many rumors. But most of what people say isn’t true. You may have heard about easy money, considerable settlements, or the idea that anyone can get paid after an accident. The reality is rarely that simple.
“Far too many people give up on their rights because they believe the wrong things. The right advice changes everything, and that is where we come in as lawyers,” says Texas-based personal injury lawyer Jonathan Harris of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP–Accident & Injury Attorneys.
This article will offer insights into what really goes on and will help you avoid some costly mistakes.
Myth 1: Personal Injury Claims Are a Way to Get Rich Quick
Individuals often discuss personal injury lawsuits as if they were lottery winnings. You hear stories of someone faking a limp or someone else exaggerating their pain for an effortless payday. However, this is not the case for the majority of individuals.
Most people just want help paying their medical bills or need to make up for paychecks they missed because they could not work. They are dealing with real pain that has overturned their lives.
Another thing to note is that insurance companies are not just handing out checks for fun. Insurance companies require proof of everything, including doctor’s notes and accident reports.
Myth 2: You Can File a Claim Anytime
Many Texans think they can take their time filing a personal injury claim, but that is just not the case. Texas law lays it out: you have two years from the day of your accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this window, you forfeit your opportunity to receive compensation, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
It’s imperative to initiate your lawsuit promptly, not solely to adhere to the statute of limitations. With time, people forget details, and important documentation can go missing, which gives insurance companies even more reason to fight harder.
Myth 3: It Takes Forever to Receive Compensation
You probably have heard that personal injury cases drag on for years and never pay off. That is just not true. Most settle before they ever see a courtroom, and if everything is straightforward, you could have things wrapped up in a few months. Tricky injuries or stubborn insurance companies can drag things out, but your lawyer is there to keep them moving and fight for what is fair.
Sometimes cases take longer because you need help paying medical bills or covering lost paychecks. In the end, getting what you deserve almost always beats footing the bill yourself.
Myth 4: You Can Handle a Personal Injury Claim Alone
Many people think you just call your insurance, sign a few forms, and the money shows up. If only it were that simple. Personal injury law is a complex system filled with deadlines, intricate regulations, and insurance companies adept at deceiving you. Adjusters seem friendly, but they are out to protect their company’s wallet, not yours.
That is why you need a lawyer. They know how to dig up the right evidence, figure out what your claim is really worth, and push back until you get what you deserve. They deal with all the negotiating, the endless paperwork, and the legal back-and-forth, so nothing slips through the cracks. Try handling your claim on your own, and you will probably end up with a lot less than you deserve.
How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer really matters. Do not just hire the first lawyer you find online. Find a trusted professional in Texas who has actually worked on cases like yours. Ask them about their results, both in settlements and in court.
Pay attention to how they explain things; you want someone clear about your options. You should feel comfortable talking to them, and they should be open. They are knowledgeable about their fees and are ready to answer your questions. In the end, trust your instincts. Move on if you feel disregarded or uncomfortable.
Conclusion
Breaking down common misconceptions about personal injury claims will give you a more comprehensive outlook on how these cases pan out and steps you can take to secure the best outcomes. Always seek the guidance of a trustworthy lawyer to ensure you receive a favorable settlement or reliable representation in court.
