5 Personal Injury Myths

There are many personal injury myths and misconceptions. These myths stop people from filing a personal injury case following an injury. It is important to know the truth behind these myths. You need to know how to move forward in the most efficient way. Misinformation may get in the way of you receiving the compensation you need and deserve. 

Here are five very common myths to be aware of

Myth – Personal Injury Claims Are Easy Money

In Pennsylvania, you may be compensated for a number of damages. These damages may include:

• medical costs 
• future medical costs 
• loss of wages
• loss of future wages, or ability to work
• pain and suffering 

Though you are eligible for compensation, it is not an easy process. Additionally, this compensation is not easy money. Rather, it is often reimbursement of costs you paid for out of your own pocket. Medical bills, wage loss, and other factors add up. Your lawsuit settlement will often cover those expenses, your legal fees, and a bit extra.

Large settlements usually indicate severe and permanent damage. Each case is different, and settlements vary. You might not be compensated the same amount as others in similar situations. There could be a small or notable difference in settlements. It comes down to the facts, details, and the lawyer you choose for your case.

Myth – Personal Injury Claims Will Resolve Quickly

As previously mentioned, each personal injury case is different. Depending on the specifics of your case, the time it will last will vary. There is no set timeline in any case. Many different factors go into how long it will take a case to resolve. Length of injury recovery, treatment, scheduling, and negotiating are all factors in how quickly a case will resolve. 

Dangers of Settling Too Quickly

It takes time to get all the necessary facts and information of a case to begin the settlement process. There are many risks involved in settling too quickly. It is important that you do not rush the process. You could be leaving hundreds of thousands of dollars at the table. At Haggerty & Silverman, we understand you may feel eager to settle your case quickly. However, we recommend you listen to your attorney for the best possible outcome.

Myth – Minor Injuries Aren’t Enough for a Personal Injury Claim

This way of thinking may deter you from receiving the money you deserve. No matter how minor an injury is, you are entitled to have your medical expenses covered. Additionally, minor injuries may result in future trauma, loss of wages, and inability to work.

Minor Injury Claims

It is common for insurance companies to take advantage of people with minor injuries. If you suffer a minor injury, you may not think it is worth it to get a lawyer involved. Many insurance companies will offer a small settlement, to cover your immediate medical expenses. But, when you sign the settlement paperwork, you’re left with any future bills. You may be left paying for your injuries out of your own pocket. Personal injury lawyers protect you against these insurance companies. 

Myth – All Personal Injury Cases Go To Court 

Personal injury myths like this keep people from seeking the money they deserve. In your personal injury case, you will have the choice to accept the insurance settlement offer or take the case to trial. The majority of personal injury cases actually never go to trial at all.

Injury Attorney With Courtroom Experience

Most personal injury cases don’t end up in a courtroom. But, if you’re looking for an injury attorney it is important to select an attorney with courtroom experience. An experienced personal injury attorney will usually be able to reach a settlement that is right for you without stepping foot in court. Settlements are much quicker than bringing your case to trial, and you don’t need to sit through many long hearings. Though every case is different, most personal injury cases never go to trial. 

Myth – People Fake Their Injuries 

Unfortunately, people may believe that injured people are faking it to earn a big payout. This is especially true for conditions that you cannot typically see. Whiplash, PTSD, and other injuries are often disregarded. Many people believe these injuries are not as legitimate as a broken arm, for example, because they are not as easy to see with your eyes. However, this is insensitive and untrue. 

Faking Injuries

There are rare cases when someone tries to fake an injury. But, it is next to impossible to file a fake injury claim. Plus, fake injury claims are insurance fraud. You might remember this guy that tried to fake a slip and fall. No real lawyer takes a fake injury claim

Contact A Lawyer For Your Injury Questions And Concerns

It is crucial to be properly informed when dealing with a personal injury case. There are many personal injury myths out there that give misinformation. In order to know what is true, you should always reach out to a lawyer. At Haggerty and Silverman, we offer a free consultation and evaluation of your case.

Free Personal Injury Consultation

For your free, confidential evaluation of your case, call us at 717-397-3200. Or, use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.