Myth #1
A claim can be filed multiple times for a single accident.
Wrong. Sometimes, a person may not get as much money for pain and suffering from the insurance company as they feel they deserved. However, once a release is signed, the injury claim will close and the case cannot be re-opened. That’s why hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is so important the first time.
Myth #2
There is an indefinite amount of time to bring forth a personal injury case.
Wrong. Every case has a statute of limitations and it is different in every state. A statute of limitations is a period of limitation for bringing certain kinds of legal action.
For example the statute of limitations for an auto accident in South Carolina is 3 years, but in some cases it may only be 2 years. After this 2 or 3 year anniversary hits, you are no longer eligible to a claim. That is why you should consult with a personal injury attorney if you are injured ASAP.
Myth #3
It takes years to be compensated for a personal injury case.
Most personal injury claims are settled within 1 year, and many within a few months! Typically, only cases involving litigation, complex liability or serious injuries take longer.
Myth #4
The insurance company will treat you fairly.
Wrong. Insurance companies seek to make money. They achieve this by reducing the amount of settlement money paid to accident victims and policyholders. Their decision making process DOES NOT include fairness as a factor.
In fact, the insurance company will look for ANY reason to offer the least amount of money possible for each claim, which is why having legal representation can significantly increase the chances of a just settlement. On average, accident victims receive 3.5 times more money when hiring an attorney!
Myth #5
Personal Injury Compensation is “Easy Money”
Most personal injury claims will not yield enough to last a lifetime, but you will be compensated for bills incurred as a result of your injuries. Compensation may include:
- emergency room visits
- ambulance charges
- hospitalization costs
- follow-up medical appointments and long-term treatment (if needed)
- lost wages from work missed
- physical therapy sessions
