Putting These Common Accident Misconceptions To Rest

Most accident victims are focused on healing from their injuries, and rightly so. Unfortunately, victims that ignore the legal aspects of the accident could end up falling into some common traps. Read on and find out how to avoid some of the most common accident misconceptions victims encounter.

1. You aren't ready to make a move. People are often told not to make important decisions right after major trauma. Many accidents do present victims with a traumatic situation, and it can take time to recover from both the physical and emotional impact of an accident. Unfortunately, you may only have so much time to take action. All states impose a statute of limitations on car accident cases, and it varies from state to state. If you wait too long, you will be prevented from being compensated no matter how worthy your case may be. Once you speak to a personal injury lawyer, you are free to concentrate on your health and your personal life instead of dealing with the other driver's insurance company and your claim.
2. You don't have enough time to deal with a legal case. Most accident cases don't have to undergo a lengthy trial to be resolved. If you settle the case outside of court, the entire situation can be over in a matter of weeks or months at the most. Court cases, on the other hand, can take many months to resolve. Ask your personal injury lawyer to settle your case, and together, you will arrive at a number that is fair for compensation. Then, sit back and let your attorney do all the heavy lifting in negotiations on your behalf.
3. You don't want to sue anyone. It's only natural to be reluctant to take action against the driver that hit you. You realize that it was an accident and they meant you no personal harm. That being said, it's probably not the other driver you are taking action against but their insurers. Most drivers, just like you, have paid premiums to their insurers for years. It is when an accident occurs that insurance is supposed to kick in and pay for the victim's damages. Taking action, however, could impact the other driver with higher rates or even a cancellation.
4. You just want to get everything over with quickly. That too is only natural. All accident victims long for a return to normalcy, but being too hasty could come back to haunt you. If you accept an inadequate settlement check just to get it over with, what will happen when you need more medical treatment in a few months? Talk to your car accident lawyer about future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other forms of damage that you are entitled to be paid.