If you have suffered an injury caused by the negligence of another party, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit in order to recover monetary damages or financial compensation to cover medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Unfortunately, many people are reluctant to file claims because of several myths associated with personal injury lawsuits and lawyers.
The most common personal injury myths include the following:
- Myth: It will take years before I see any money from my personal injury lawsuit. Fact: Most personal injury cases are settled prior to reaching trial. If the parties can agree to a settlement outside the courtroom, they can resolve the case faster. In many cases, settlements can take days or weeks.
- Myth: I have an unlimited amount of time to file my case. Fact: The statute of limitations sets a time limit that an individual has to file a lawsuit for an injury. In California, the time limit is two years from the date the accident and injury occurred.
- Myth: I do not need to file a lawsuit because my injuries are not that serious. Fact: If you do not receive proper medical attention, your minor injury can develop into a huge problem. Then once it becomes a major injury, you may have a difficult time trying to obtain the compensation you need to make a full recovery.
- Myth: I don’t need an attorney because I have insurance: Fact: The main goal of insurance companies is to make a profit from your premiums. They will do whatever it takes to either offer you a reduced settlement or deny your claim altogether. A lawyer will ensure that your best interests are always protected.
If you have been injured by a negligent party in Northern California, request a free consultation with our Sacramento personal injury attorneys at Eliot Reiner, APLC today.