Personal injury law can be complex, and unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. These misconceptions can often deter accident victims from seeking the help they need after an accident. In this blog post, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about personal injury law, shedding light on the truth and empowering car accident victims to take the right steps to protect their rights. At Hutson Law Firm, we’re dedicated to providing clear, accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your personal injury case.
Myth #1: You Can’t Afford a Personal Injury Attorney
Reality: Many people believe that hiring a personal injury attorney is expensive and out of reach. However, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that accident victims only pay attorneys’ fees based on compensation recovered. Accident injury lawyers also pay costs, such as court filing fees, in advance, and some make reimbursement of costs also contingent on the case outcome. Thus, if there is no recovery, the cost to the client could be nothing. Attorney Hutson offers FREE consultations.
Myth #2: You Can Handle Your Case on Your Own
Reality: While it’s possible to handle a personal injury case without an attorney, it’s not recommended. Personal injury law is surprisingly complex, and insurance companies are sophisticated and skilled. An experienced personal injury attorney will understand the rules of procedure, the law, gather evidence, negotiate, and, if necessary, present your case in a hearing or trial.
Myth #3: You Have Plenty of Time to File a Claim
Reality: In Arizona, there is a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a personal injury claim. The limitations period is often 2 years from the date of an accident, but notice and filing requirements can be substantially shorter. Once those deadlines pass, an accident victim will be barred from recovering compensation for his or her damages. It is important to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Myth #4: Only Catastrophic Injuries Qualify for Compensation
Reality: Personal injury compensation is not limited to catastrophic injuries. Even “minor” injuries, such as whiplash or soft tissue injuries, can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation, regardless of their severity.
At Hutson Law Firm, we’re here to debunk myths, provide clear, accurate information, and fight for Arizona’s accident victims. If you’ve been injured through no fault of your own, contact us today for a free consultation at 623-628-7400.