Personal Injury Claims and Myths Surrounding Them
It is not uncommon for people to have misconceptions about personal injury claims. This can be due to misunderstandings about the law or simply because of incorrect information in the media. Here are some common myths and the facts behind them:
Any Injury Can Lead to a Claim
No matter how severe an accident may be, not all trauma will qualify for a personal injury claim. To make a successful claim, it needs to be shown that someone else’s negligence caused the injury either directly or indirectly. Even if an individual was partially responsible for their own injuries, they may still have grounds for a claim as long as another person or organization had some level of legal responsibility.
You Can File Whenever You Want
Mississippi Code § 15-1-49 states that an injured person has three years from the date of their accident to file a claim to recover damages. However, keep in mind that witnesses and evidence disappears quickly. Contacting an injury lawyer as soon as possible can make a difference in whether you can recover damages.
Personal Injury Claims Take a Long Time
While it may be true that some personal injury claims take a long time to resolve, this is not always the case. When both parties are cooperative and willing to settle outside of court, it is possible for the process to move quickly. In addition, experienced attorneys can often negotiate settlements much faster than people would expect.
Personal Injury Claims Are Very Expensive
It is true that legal representation in personal injury cases does involve certain costs such as attorney fees and court filing fees. However, an experienced attorney can often negotiate a settlement out of court that will cover all associated expenses. Moreover, most attorneys offer contingency fee arrangements which means they only get paid if they successfully win your case.
You Don’t Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim
While it is theoretically possible for individuals to represent themselves in personal injury claims, this is rarely recommended. A knowledgeable attorney understands the nuances of state and federal laws, as well as how insurance companies operate. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve in the most efficient manner.
All Personal Injury Attorneys are Created Equal
Personal injury attorneys have different levels of experience, knowledge and resources which can make a huge difference in the outcome of a case. It is important to do some research when selecting an attorney so that you choose one who has specific expertise in personal injury claims.
These are just a few of the most common myths about personal injury claims and their associated facts. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it is important that you understand your rights and take appropriate legal action. An experienced attorney can help ensure that justice is served.
Count on Diaz Law Firm for Your Legal Needs
At Diaz Law Firm, we provide a free case review so that you can learn more about your options going forward. Call us to schedule your free consultation to find out how we can help. We can be contacted at (601) 607-3456 locally or by calling (800) 459-2222. We also offer online contact if you find that more convenient.