If you are involved in an auto accident, you may turn to family and friends who have been involved in accidents in the past for advice. Unfortunately, there are many myths and rumors about auto accident cases that have been circulating for years – so you could end up getting bad advice. Following are a few of the most common myths about auto accidents.
You don’t need an attorney after a minor accident.
While it’s true that some accidents are so minor that legal help is not needed, it’s actually smart to consult an attorney after ANY car accident. That’s because what seems like a minor injury can begin causing major pain and suffering over time. In addition, factors such as having multiple vehicles involved in the accident can end up with insurance companies refusing to pay for damages because they can dispute who is at fault for the accident. Most reputable lawyers will give you a free consultation if you were in an accident, so the smart thing to do is speak to an attorney to protect your rights – even if the accident seems to be minor.
Insurance companies will pay for everything after an accident.
Many people don’t realize just how complicated things can get when dealing with an insurance company after an accident. The most important thing to understand is that insurance companies are in business to make money – and if they can avoid paying claims they will do just that. Whether it’s your own insurance company or the one covering the other person in the accident, they are not obligated to treat you fairly and will often try to get you to accept a small settlement or avoid paying for damages and medical expenses whenever possible.
Rear-end accidents are always the fault of the vehicle behind.
This is one of the most persistent myths about car accidents – but it simply isn’t true. While it’s true that the car in the rear is often at fault in these accidents, the driver in front can actually be at fault if they made an improper lane change, slammed on the brakes, cut off another driver or had broken/burnt out brake lights.
