5 Personal Injury Claim Myths Debunked

Many people throughout the country are currently pursuing personal injury cases due to accidents that caused them severe physical and emotional trauma. They are dealing with long-term injuries that will take years to recover from, which entitles them to compensation from the insurance companies. However, some common myths tend to circulate throughout society about personal injury claims and how the process unfolds. Our personal injury attorneys in San Diego want to address those misconceptions while also providing you with realistic expectations for how things are handled.

Here are five common myths associated with personal injury claims:

Myth #1: Personal Injury Claims Are an Easy Cash Grab
This couldn’t be further from the truth, and it’s because you have the burden of proving that the damages you suffered were a direct result of the accident and someone else’s negligence. You can negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, but you shouldn’t consider it easy money. You have to invest a lot of time and energy into the entire process, and you have to be patient and optimistic throughout everything. Your lawyer also must show proof of all your damages, which include:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Extensive emotional and physical suffering
Lower quality of life

Myth #2: You Can File a Personal Injury Claim Any Time After the Incident
Unfortunately, you must abide by the statute of limitations when it comes to personal injury cases, which sets a deadline of two years in California (from the time of the accident). This means that you have to act quickly when it comes to pursuing your case. We advise that you contact a lawyer immediately so that you can get the ball rolling right away.

Myth #3: The Negligent Party Should Pay Off My Medical Expenses as I Incur Them
Again, it doesn’t quite work that way. For the time being, you will likely have to pay for your medical expenses either out of pocket or through your health insurance provider (or through a medical lien). You must wait until your lawyer completes the process of negotiating a settlement with the insurance company before the negligent party becomes obligated to pay any amount.

Myth #4: You Are Always Guaranteed Compensation
This will rarely happen, but there is a possibility that your case can go to court, which will require a jury to determine if you deserve compensation for your injuries. Keep in mind that each case is different, and depending on the circumstances, the amount of compensation you receive will vary. There is always a chance that you may not win your case.

Myth #5: Personal Injury Cases Are Swift and Simple
Every personal injury case has its own inherent complications, which will require an attorney to sift through and catalog all of the details and evidence. There isn’t always a quick solution or remedy to your situation; you have to undergo several different stages of the legal process. They include:

Discovery procedures
Negotiations with the insurance company
Court proceedings
Jury deliberations

Hire a Personal Injury Attorney in San Diego You Can Trust
The personal injury attorneys here at HHJ Trial Attorneys have plenty of experience when it comes to personal injury law in the state of California. We serve a wide range of clients throughout San Diego, negotiating fair and reasonable settlements on their behalf. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Testimonial from Taryn, Satisfied Personal Injury Client
This firm is the best. I was injured in a serious car accident where I had a serious back injury. My friend told me that HHJ was the best personal injury law firm in California. I contacted the firm and was assigned to Michael Hernandez. Michael was extremely patient, sent me to the right doctors and put my health in front of every thing. After by back injury started healing, Michael resolved the case for a crazy high amount. Way beyond my expectations. I did not pay a dollar for their services out of pocket. I highly recommend this firm for anyone that was injured in a car accident.