3 Myths That Can Affect Your Personal Injury Case

16 February 2023
 Categories: Law, Blog


Personal injury victims often experience painful injuries and substantial medical bills. However, many people are reluctant to contact a personal injury lawyer and pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Sometimes this reluctance is based on myths or misconceptions surrounding the thoughts and processes of their potential case. These myths can cause more hurt, harm, and injury. Here are a few myths your personal injury attorney can help you put to rest. 

Myth #1: There Has To Be A Certain Minimum Criteria For You To File A Claim

Many people do not file a personal injury claim because they feel their injuries are not sufficient enough to warrant the involvement of others. Unfortunately, you often do not know the extent of your injuries at the time of the accident. 

Injuries not apparent at the time of the accident can manifest or even worsen over time. The only way to determine the extent of your injuries is to ensure you are thoroughly checked by a medical professional following your accident. 

Myth #2: You Have Unlimited Time To File A Case

There is a statute of limitations on a time limit on when you must file your injury claim. This period varies by state and can range anywhere from two years in Alabama to six years in Maine. This period starts running from the day of the accident and expires on that date at the end of your statute. 

There are exceptions to this, but these are extenuating circumstances. For example, it may be after you first discover your injuries or the source of your accident.

The statute of limitations also sometimes varies if your injuries occur before your eighteenth birthday. In cases involving minors, the clock does not begin ticking until they reach 18. 

Myth #3: Personal Injury Cases Take Forever

People often do not file personal injury cases because they think they will take forever to resolve. While some complex cases can take a long time, your personal injury lawyer can often resolve other cases in just a few weeks or months. 

You can speed up your claim by taking several necessary steps. These include the following:

  • Hiring a personal injury lawyer as quickly as possible
  • Filing your claim
  • Ensuring your attorney receives all relevant documentation
  • Attending all medical appointments
  • Staying in contact with your attorney

Be careful not to settle your case before you resolve all your medical issues. Once you settle, you may not be able to go back and reclaim additional compensation at a later date. 

Contact a local personal injury attorney to learn more. 


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