The legal complexities surrounding personal injury claims can seem daunting, especially if you’re encountering them for the first time. When you’re suffering from the pain and potential financial devastation of a catastrophic injury, you cannot let myths and misconceptions trip you up. Here are a few common myths that slow people down in the pursuit of compensation:
Myth 1: Filing a personal injury claim for a catastrophic injury is too complicated
While the personal injury claims process is complex and intricate, it is not too much for you. In fact, a claim is necessary to get the medical help you need for the most grievous of injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Paralysis
The process is intimidating. But you can handle it, especially if you have the right help.
Myth 2: I can’t afford a personal injury attorney.
Almost all personal injury attorneys work on a “contingency basis” and does not take an advance fee for their work. Once the claim is completed and there is a verdict or settlement, the attorney takes a fee from that money – and many awards tend to take that into account. Attorneys who work in personal injury law typically provide new clients with a free consultation to hear out each claim fully before moving forward.
Simply put, there are no upfront costs to you to speak with a lawyer or to get a lawyer to work for you.
Myth 3: Insurance companies will always offer a fair settlement
The entire personal injury process exists because insurance companies do not play fair. In hospital billing and the law, insurance companies have a lot of power, and they use it to employ various tactics to delay or deny compensation.
Myth 4: I can wait to file a claim
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. With the logistical concerns of getting healthy and back to work, those two years can move much faster than you expect.
Seek guidance and take action.
Don’t let these myths deter you from pursuing the financial help you deserve to manage your hospital bills and recovery. Remember, you’re alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help.