6 Common Myths About Personal Injury Lawsuits
November 25, 2024 in Personal Injury
Whether it’s misunderstandings about the legal process, settlements, or the costs, personal injury lawsuits often come with misconceptions that can prevent victims from pursuing compensation. To help you better understand your options, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo debunk six common myths about personal injury lawsuits.
1. Personal Injury Lawsuits Are Always Long and Drawn Out
Many people believe that filing a personal injury lawsuit means preparing for years of legal battles. While some cases can take time, most personal injury claims are resolved through settlements before ever reaching a courtroom. A skilled NYC personal injury lawyer works to expedite the process by negotiating with insurance companies and building a strong case from the start. With the right legal team, you can often achieve a fair resolution without unnecessary delays.
2. I Can Handle the Claim on My Own
It’s tempting to think you can negotiate directly with the insurance company to save time and money. However, insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and protect their company’s bottom line. Without an experienced lawyer, you may accept a settlement far below what your claim is worth. An NYC personal injury lawyer can calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering so that you don’t leave money on the table.
3. If I Was Partially at Fault, I Can’t Recover Compensation
New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your personal injury settlement will be reduced by the percentage of your responsibility. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that amount. A knowledgeable attorney can argue against unfair fault allocations to maximize your recovery.
4. Lawsuits Are Too Expensive to Pursue
When considering whether to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, the cost of pursuing a lawsuit can be a common concern, but most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, taking a percentage of the final settlement or verdict. This arrangement allows you to access high-quality legal representation without upfront costs, making justice accessible regardless of your financial situation.
5. All Personal Injury Claims Lead to Huge Payouts
While some high-profile cases result in large settlements, most personal injury claims aim to cover the actual losses and damages suffered by the victim. Your settlement amount will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the extent of your medical expenses. An experienced NYC personal injury lawyer will ensure your settlement accurately reflects your needs, but expectations should be grounded in the specifics of your case.
6. Filing a Lawsuit Means I’m Being Greedy
You may know of personal injury lawsuits from billboards, television ads or headline-making cases but at the end of the day every personal injury case involves attempting to compensate a person who has undergone a traumatic event. This misconception often prevents victims from seeking compensation, but personal injury lawsuits aren’t about greed—they’re about justice and financial recovery. Medical bills, lost income, and ongoing treatments can place a significant burden on accident victims and their families. Pursuing a personal injury settlement allows you to seek out the resources needed to rebuild your life and hold negligent parties accountable.
Understanding the realities of personal injury lawsuits can help you make informed decisions about your case. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, consulting an NYC personal injury lawyer is the first step toward seeking fair compensation. Don’t let myths or misconceptions deter you from protecting your rights. Contact a trusted attorney to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
Contact an Experienced NYC Personal Injury Lawyer at SPBMCC Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in personal injury cases, 9/11-related illnesses, firefighter accidents, car accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.