Misconceptions abound when it comes to personal injury cases. Victims often think they don’t really need a lawyer or that they’ll have to go to court if they pursue compensation. Both of these beliefs are false, and an Anderson personal injury lawyer explains why below.
Anderson, IN, Lawyers Are Too Expensive
Many accident victims forgo hiring a lawyer because of the cost. They don’t have money to shell out for an attorney, especially when they’ve got medical bills and debt collectors breathing down their necks.
Of all the misconceptions about personal injury claims, this one is all too common. However, victims needn’t worry about cost, as most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means victims won’t owe money unless the lawyer wins, and that money comes out of their award or settlement.
Victims Can’t Seek Compensation If They Are at Fault
Many victims don’t bother pursuing compensation because they are partially at fault for their accident. Perhaps they were distracted by their phone or crying child.
Accidents in Anderson, IN, follow modified comparative fault rules, meaning victims can recover damages as long as they’re less than 51% at fault.
The Insurance Company Will Handle Everything
It’s tempting to let the insurance company take the reins after an accident. The adjuster will investigate what happened after victims file a claim, make an offer, and send a settlement check. They make the process sound perfectly simple and stress-free.
This misconception is dangerous because it can cost victims thousands. Insurance companies aren’t in the business of giving handouts. They’ll usually offer the lowest settlement that a victim may accept.
An Anderson, IN, attorney knows this and can negotiate with the insurance company for additional recovery.
Hiring a Lawyer Means Going to Court
After an accident, battling a defendant in court is definitely the last thing victims want to do. It should ease their mind, then, to know that nearly all personal injury cases settle out of court.
Lawsuits and court fees are expensive, so it’s in the insurance company’s interest to settle as quickly as possible. Victims will only need to proceed to a trial if the insurer refuses to negotiate, which is rare.
Anderson, IN, Attorneys Help Victims Seek Justice
Misconceptions about personal injury claims are dangerous because they can cost victims a lot of money. Stewart & Stewart Attorneys is dedicated to fighting these misconceptions and helping clients win a fair settlement for their car accidents.
Anderson, IN, readers who would like to learn more can call Stewart & Stewart Attorneys at (800) 333-3529 for a free consultation.