If you've been hurt as a result of someone else's carelessness or negligence, you can find yourself suddenly faced with medical costs, the lack of income from potentially missing work, and even a lower quality of life. Nobody ever plans on getting hurt in a car accident, on a construction site, any other type of accident that leaves you worried about the future. Although you may believe you will easily be compensated for your losses. Unfortunately, that's not always the case.
A personal injury lawyer, such as Brandon J. Broderick, can help defend your rights and seek compensation in a personal injury claim. However, many people hold false beliefs in personal injury myths and avoid involving attorneys in their claims. Below are 5 myths concerning personal injury in New York.
Myth #1: Insurance Covers My Losses
Your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance serves as the main insurer in no-fault auto insurance states like New York. You can only file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance if your medical costs and other damages are greater than your PIP coverage and you chose to use your right to sue for bodily harm. No matter whose insurance policy may be liable, do not believe that it will fully compensate you for your losses.
Insurance companies make it their business to reduce or deny claims. In other words, they want to pay out as little as possible in any claims. Insurance adjusters may employ a number of strategies, such as persuading you to accept an early settlement or utilizing evidence against you, to limit or minimize your claim. The truth is that without a car accident lawyer's assistance, victims of injuries rarely receive enough money to cover all of their losses.
Myth #2: The At-Fault Party Will Be Required To Pay For Losses, Even If They Have to Pay Out of Pocket
This misunderstanding applies to cases involving personal injury cases like dog bites or slip and falls at a neighborhood store. Many victims are reluctant to file a lawsuit against friends or family. Or, they could feel that their financial security will be in jeopardy if they file a personal injury lawsuit after an animal attack against a homeowner or a small business. If the claim is successful, the at-fault party's insurance provider will pay the claim; not the individual.
Myth #3: You Will Be Forced to Go To Court
When thinking about taking legal action after an injury occurs in an accident, many people picture themselves having to appear in court. In reality, most personal injury cases are resolved outside of court before going to trial. Although you might occasionally need to attend meetings and maybe even a hearing, many cases are resolved without ever going to court.
If your claim necessitates litigation and a trial, you will be in the best possible position if you retain the services of an experienced New York personal injury attorney, such as Brandon J. Broderick.
Myth #4: You Can File A Personal Injury Claim At Any Time
Every state has a deadline by which you must submit a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations in New York is three years from the day you suffered injury or were diagnosed with the injury.
It's in your best interest to speak with a New York personal injury lawyer as soon as you can following an accident. You shouldn't delay in doing so, as you could potentially lose your right to file a claim if you wait too long. As you recover and wait for your claim, an attorney can advise you on the best steps to take because evidence might be lost and memories can fade. It's important to keep in mind that once you accept a settlement, your claim is permanently closed.
Myth #5: Personal Injury Lawyers Are Too Expensive; I Can't Afford One
The majority of personal injury attorneys take cases on a contingency basis. So, they do not require any payments upfront; and they are only paid if they win your case. Furthermore, most personal injury lawyers provide a free consultation during which you can freely discuss your case and they will advise you on the prospects of having a valid claim.
Speaking with an experienced attorney about your case carries no risk.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys in New York Right Now
Hiring with an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly impact how your case turns out. Why suffer following an accident brought on by someone else's carelessness without receiving enough compensation to pay your bills and other losses?
The personal injury attorneys at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law have years of experience, a proven track record of success, and recovered millions in compensation awards. With our firm, you will not pay any legal fees until your claim is successful.
Making the initial call is the hardest part. For a free consultation, get in touch with us today.