Common Myths About Car Accident Settlements Debunked

When you’re involved in a car accident, things might get confusing really fast. Between dealing with injuries, talking to insurance companies, and missing work, it’s already overwhelming. Apart from that, people around you start giving advice. Although some of that is helpful, much of it is based on myths.

As a result, these common myths about car accident claims lead to poor decisions. Also, you miss out on many opportunities. Hence, you do not receive what you’re truly entitled to. In fact, if you are not careful, you might settle for less or even give up on your claim too early. 

Therefore, always reach out to a legal professional. Essentially, the legal professional will guide you through the necessary steps. This way, you will get enough legal protection.

6 Common Myths About Car Accident Claims

Let’s break down some of the most common myths about car accident claims. The following points include what the truth actually looks like:

Myth 1: All Car Accident Settlements Are the Same

The biggest and most misleading myth is the idea that there’s a standard payout for every car crash. In reality, car accident settlements depend on a variety of factors. The following are the major factors that determine the level of settlement:

• The type and extent of injuries
• Who was at fault
• Medical expenses and lost wages
• Pain and emotional suffering
• Insurance policy limits

Sometimes, side-impact collisions (T-bone accidents) are particularly hazardous. This is because the sides of vehicles don’t provide a lot of protection. Also, these crashes mostly lead to serious injuries like broken bones or head trauma. 

That’s why the average payout for a t-bone accident is typically higher compared to more minor rear-end collisions. However, every case is different. Additionally, comparing your accident to someone else’s may not provide a complete picture. 

Hence, a law firm specializing in car accident claims will greatly help you to comprehend what your case might be worth. First, they will look at the details. Then, they will guide you through the process. Therefore, you do not have to rely on guesswork. Also, you must not settle for less than you deserve.

Myth 2: You’ll Always End Up with a Big Check

This is an overall assumption, particularly due to what we observe on television or learn through sensationalized news stories. Individuals mostly believe that they will end up receiving tens of thousands or even millions following an accident. 

Meanwhile, large settlements do occur. However, they are not quite prevalent in every case. In fact, insurance firms do not settle large sums unless there is strong evidence of critical harm. 

Apart from that, if you suffered minor injuries or recovered rapidly, your payment will be lower. In addition, if you didn’t obey the doctor’s orders or delayed medical attention, your claim’s worth may decline.

Basically, the circumstances determine the following aspects:

• The amount of your check.
• How did you get injured?
• The expenses you have incurred.
• How has your life changed since the accident?

Myth 3: The Insurance Company Is Enough to Handle Everything

Unfortunately, it is easy to believe that your insurance company is on your side. After all, you’ve been paying them month after month. But when it comes time to file a claim, their main goal is to save money, not necessarily to make things easier for you.

They might offer you a settlement quickly, and it may seem convenient. However, that first offer is significantly lower than what your case is actually worth. Moreover, some insurance companies rely on the fact that people want to avoid legal battles. Hence, they primarily want the process to end.

Myth 4: A Small Case Does Not Require Lawyers

In most cases, people think lawyers are necessary when major injuries or lawsuits are involved. However, even if your case seems small, you will benefit a lot from legal experience.

For one, injuries aren’t always obvious right away. Sometimes, a sore neck today might turn into chronic pain down the road. Hence, without proper legal advice, you might accept a settlement instantly. Therefore, it is important to know the full extent of your injuries.

Also, a lawyer understands how insurance companies work. In general, they mostly focus on the following things:

• Knowing what documents are required.
• Which deadlines are critical?
• How to construct a compelling case? 

Hence, with the help of a legal professional, you will not miss any important steps. Otherwise, it might hurt your claim later.

Myth 5: It Is Always Better to Settle Quickly

In many cases, the full extent of injuries or damages doesn’t show up right away. Some symptoms take weeks to develop. However, if you accept an offer and sign a release, you won’t be able to go back and ask for more money. This holds true even if new problems arise.

It’s better to wait, get proper medical treatment, and understand how the injury will affect your future before signing anything. In fact, patience always leads to a fairer payout.

Myth 6: If You Were Partly at Fault, You Will Not Get Compensation

In general, most states follow the rule of comparative negligence. This means you will still receive compensation even though you were partially at fault. Basically, your payout is merely reduced based on your share of the blame.

In some cases, if you were found to be 30% responsible, you might still receive 70% of the total claim amount. Hence, don’t assume that you are out of options merely because you weren’t 100% innocent. 

Apart from that, always research the laws in your state. Moreover, consult with a legal professional familiar with these cases.

Don’t Blindly Believe in Myths

It is evident that car accident settlements are not as straightforward as they might seem. Apart from that, there are some common myths about car accident claims. 

In fact, if you believe in myths, you are likely to make poor decisions. Moreover, you might settle too early or expect too much. Hence, you might end up giving up too soon.

Hence, if you somehow face an accident, don’t rely on guesswork or assumptions. Rather, get the facts, ask questions, and know your rights. This is because one small decision will make a big difference in your physical and financial recovery.

Read Also:

• How Liability Is Determined After a Truck Accident
• 7 Steps to Take Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
• After the Impact: Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Early Makes All the Difference