Getting hurt in an accident can be scary, confusing, and stressful, especially when you try to seek help to cover your medical bills or lost work.
That’s where an injury claim comes in. An injury claim is how you ask for money to cover the costs of your injuries when someone else was at fault.
But here’s the problem; there are a lot of myths or false ideas about personal injury settlements that can cause people to make mistakes or even lose their cases. Below are some of the common misconceptions.
I Don’t Need a Doctor if I Feel Fine
The reality is, always see a doctor after an accident, even if you think you’re fine. Sometimes, injuries do not appear right away. You may feel fine immediately following a car crash or fall but start developing pain in your neck, back, or head sometime later. Physicians refer to these as delayed injuries, and they are common.
If you do not see a doctor shortly after the accident, the insurance company may claim that your injuries are not serious or even that they did not arise from the accident. Early checkups provide safety to you while creating evidence for your claim.
If I Say Sorry, I’ll Look Honest
Saying sorry after an accident feels polite, but it might give the insurance companies reason to think you are accepting blame when you may truly not be at fault. For example, if you say “I’m sorry” after someone rear-ends your car, they might twist your words to mean you admit you caused it.
Rather than saying sorry:
● Make sure everyone is okay
● Call for help
● Let the police write a report
● State the facts, rather than your emotions.
The Insurance Company Will Treat Me Fairly
Insurers are businesses, and their objective is to pay as little as possible. Many people believe that an insurance adjuster is there to help them, but that isn’t so. They work for the company and not for you. They may even be friendly or advise you not to get a lawyer, but that’s often only because they want you to agree to a low settlement.
It’s always wise to be polite but guarded. Don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement until you understand your rights or speak with a lawyer.
I Can Handle the Claim Myself
Injury claims are not simple. You’re dealing with:
● Forms
● Deadlines
● Medical records
● Insurance companies that do this professionally
A simple oversight, like missing a deadline or saying the wrong thing, could damage your case. Having a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference. They know the laws, how to speak with insurance companies, and how to get you fairly paid. Most injury lawyers don’t even charge money up front. They get paid only if you win.
Small Injuries Aren’t Worth Filing a Claim For
Even the smallest injuries can later turn into big problems. Perhaps you slipped and hurt your ankle only a little, but what if it starts to worsen? Medical bills can build up, and you may have to miss work or even undergo physical therapy.
The earlier you file the claim, the more you’ll be covered if it doesn’t heal as fast as you think it would. Don’t assume that a little ache today won’t matter tomorrow; it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
Don’t let myths stop you from doing what’s right after a truck accident. Medical care, evidence gathering, and your rights are part of the foundation of protecting yourself. Remember:
● Be careful what you say and post
● Don’t delay medical care or paperwork
● Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a lawyer