Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming, and when you’re dealing with the aftermath, it’s easy to fall victim to common myths and misconceptions about how the process works. Whether it’s what to do immediately after the crash or how to handle insurance, the wrong advice can hurt your case and your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
In this post, we’ll debunk some of the most common car accident myths and set the record straight so you can protect your rights and make informed decisions moving forward.
Myth #1: “If I wasn’t injured, I don’t need a lawyer.”
The Truth: Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it’s always a good idea to consult a lawyer after a car accident.
Many people assume that if they’re not feeling immediate pain or don’t have obvious injuries, they don’t need legal help. But the reality is that injuries from car accidents can sometimes take hours or even days to show up. Whiplash, soft tissue damage, and other injuries may not be immediately noticeable but can cause long-term issues.
A lawyer can help you understand the full extent of your legal rights and assist with the claims process, whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or vehicle repairs. Even if you don’t think you need a lawyer, a quick consultation can help you make sure you’re not missing anything important.
Myth #2: “The Insurance Company Will Always Offer a Fair Settlement.”
The Truth: Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to minimize payouts, not maximize them.
When you’re in a car accident, it’s easy to assume that your insurance company, or the other driver’s insurance company, will offer a fair settlement. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Insurance companies often try to offer lowball settlements in the hopes that you’ll accept quickly and move on—especially if you’re dealing with injuries or damage to your vehicle.
It’s important to remember that the first offer is rarely the best offer. If you’re not sure what your claim is worth, it’s wise to talk to a personal injury attorney before accepting anything from an insurance company. An attorney will make sure you’re not being shortchanged and will work to get you the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Myth #3: “I Can’t File a Claim if the Accident Was Partially My Fault.”
The Truth: In many cases, you can still file a claim, even if you were partially at fault.
Missouri and Kansas follow what’s called a “comparative fault” rule. This means that even if you were partly responsible for the accident, you can still file a claim and potentially recover damages. However, the amount of compensation you can receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that 20%. So, just because you share some of the blame doesn’t mean you’re automatically disqualified from seeking compensation.
Myth #4: “My Medical Bills Will Be Paid Right Away.”
The Truth: Getting your medical bills paid after an accident can be a lengthy process, especially if you’re dealing with insurance companies.
After an accident, it’s easy to assume that your medical bills will be taken care of quickly—either by your own insurance or the other driver’s. Unfortunately, the process can take longer than expected. Insurance companies often delay payments, dispute certain costs, or try to shift blame.
If you’re stuck in this situation, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure your medical bills are paid in a timely manner.
Myth #5: “I Don’t Need a Lawyer for a Minor Accident.”
The Truth: Even minor accidents can lead to significant financial and legal issues.
You might think that because your car accident was minor, it doesn’t warrant the attention of a lawyer. But even in less severe accidents, you could face hidden damages such as whiplash or other soft tissue injuries that might not show up immediately.
Additionally, insurance companies can still be difficult to deal with, even for smaller claims. A lawyer can help make sure your claim is handled properly, negotiate settlements, and help you avoid costly mistakes that could impact your case in the future.
Myth #6: “If the Other Driver Was Uninsured, I’m Out of Luck.”
The Truth: You still have options, even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
If you’re involved in a crash with an uninsured driver, it’s understandable to think that your chances of recovering damages are slim. However, there are still options available. If you have uninsured motorist coverage (which is highly recommended), your own insurance company may cover your medical bills and damages. You can also explore legal action against the at-fault driver, even if they don’t have insurance.
If you’re unsure about your coverage or your options, a lawyer can help guide you through the process and help you explore every avenue for compensation.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back
There are plenty of myths and misconceptions when it comes to car accidents—and believing in them could hurt your case. Whether it’s thinking you don’t need a lawyer, assuming the insurance company has your best interests in mind, or underestimating the impact of an accident, these myths can lead to costly mistakes.
At KC Car Crash Lawyers, we’re here to help you sort through the facts and protect your rights. If you’ve been in an accident and aren’t sure what to do next, don’t hesitate to contact us at 816-825-5704 for a free consultation. We’ll make sure you get the compensation you deserve, and you don’t pay unless we win your case.