Car accidents are, unfortunately, more common in the U.S. than one might expect. Did you know that six million accidents occur annually in the U.S. — that’s nearly 16,438 collisions daily? Also, that:
- Over 90 people die in car crashes daily
- 3 million individuals in the U.S. are injured every year in automobile accidents
- Around 2 million drivers in car accidents experience permanent injuries annually
Since accidents are so common, they have resulted in tons of myths. Accident victims who believe in these myths may become vulnerable to other parties involved.
Therefore, you shouldn’t let any car accident myths ruffle you up and keep you from making decisions in your best interest. You need to consider all factors, and you should manage the process after the accident the right way. If you proceed carefully after an accident, you can improve your chance of being compensated for the damages suffered during the accident.
Here, we mention some myths that you should debunk before they start playing with your mind:
Myth#1— I Don’t Need an Auto Accident Lawyer in North Carolina Because My Insurance Company Will Take Care of Me.
As insurance companies provide payments in times of need, most people believe that the adjuster will quickly cover them for the losses and injuries incurred.
However, the truth is that these companies are profit-driven businesses, and some of them may be looking to limit their liability. The process of getting a settlement is more complicated, and you may get a low-ball offer that won’t cover the financial cost that you had to bear because of the accident.
Thus, as some insurance adjusters work to lower liability, you may need an attorney to fight for your rights and fair value for your auto accident claim. Put simply, with a lawyer by your side, you will have a much better chance of getting full and fair compensation.
Myth#2— Attorneys are Always Too Expensive
Many auto accident victims avoid hiring an attorney because they view it as a legal expense. They think that they are already crippled financially with medical expenses and property damage, and the last thing they want is another expense by hiring an attorney. Their perception is that attorneys charge for every minute of consultation, asking for a hefty sum for case representation, but that is not necessarily the case.
An attorney may not cost you much upfront, and they will fight fiercely to protect your rights. Personal injury attorneys can help you gain a lot more through your compensation claim than what you pay them. So trusting an attorney with your case can give you a real advantage.
Also, some auto accident lawyers in North Carolina work on a contingency basis, meaning you would not have to bear any legal expense before or during the case. You would have to pay them only if you are compensated. So, you may not be charged a dime unless you get your auto accident compensation.
Myth# 3—I Will Handle My Claim
Some people think that they don’t need a lawyer and can file a claim on their own. However, after being injured and going through recovery, the last thing you want is more stress, which means you should not be handling your accident claims.
From evidence collection to paperwork filing and negotiation with the insurer, it involves a lot of hard work, time, and patience to file and handle an auto accident claim. All this can be highly stressful if you’re doing it on your own with no legal representation.
Hence, it is advisable to work with a lawyer who, on your behalf, can manage all aspects of your case with the goal of a smooth and stress-free compensation recovery process for you.
Myth#4—I Can File an Auto Accident Claim Any Time
That’s not the way that you should go about if you want to file a claim. The North Carolina statute of limitations for car accident claims is three years from the accident date. So, if you’re going to get compensated, you must file your auto accident claim within this time frame. Failure to do so can result in no compensation at all as you may lose your right to pursue compensation in a court of law.
Moreover, it is advisable to take action fast and avoid delay because you could lose crucial evidence that can otherwise help build a strong case against the defendant. Therefore, act quickly before it’s too late.
File a claim right away so that you can pursue your claim. After three years, the court may not accept your case, and you would have zero chances of getting any amount of compensation.
Myth#5—Insurers Always Offer A Fair Settlement
Not really. Some insurers might reach out and try to get a statement from you, which can be used to lower your claim. Some insurers visit victims after the accident and ask leading questions to elicit answers that can reduce claims. Therefore, avoid making any statement after your accident. Let your attorney fight your case and pursue a fair settlement.
For more information or legal representation, contact us today. Let us help you file your auto accident claim and fight for you to be compensated fairly.
