When someone gets injured in an accident, it’s common to hear advice from friends, family, or even social media. But not everything people believe about personal injury claims is accurate. In fact, some of the most common ideas are based on myths that can actually hurt someone’s chance of recovering fair compensation. Knowing the truth can make a real difference in how we handle a situation after being injured.
Fault Does Not Have To Be One-sided
A lot of people think that if they were partly at fault for an accident, they can’t file a claim. That’s not the case. Many states, including Louisiana, follow what’s called comparative fault rules. This means you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the incident. The amount you receive may be reduced based on your level of fault, but it doesn’t block your ability to make a claim altogether.
For example, if you were 20% at fault and the other party was 80% at fault, you may still recover 80% of the total damages. This kind of legal detail is often misunderstood, and it’s why many people walk away from valid claims based on false assumptions.
Insurance Companies Are Not On Your Side
Another common belief is that the insurance company will take care of everything fairly. While adjusters may seem helpful at first, their job is to save money for the company, not to protect your interests. We’ve seen many people accept settlements that are far below what their claim is actually worth because they relied on the insurance adjuster’s word.
It’s important to remember that the insurance company doesn’t work for you, even if it’s your own provider. They may delay, deny, or minimize your claim. That’s why having someone on your side who understands how these companies operate can make a big difference.
Minor Injuries Can Still Justify A Claim
Some people assume they shouldn’t take legal action unless they’ve suffered a major injury. But even injuries that seem minor at first can lead to long-term problems, missed work, and medical bills. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, or sprains can have a serious impact on daily life and finances. It’s not just about visible injuries; it’s about how those injuries affect your life over time.
If we wait too long to act, evidence can be lost and deadlines can pass. Even if we’re unsure how serious the injury is, it’s a good idea to get it checked out and speak to someone who can give clear guidance.
Lawsuits Are Not Always Long And Difficult
Another myth is that filing a personal injury claim automatically leads to a drawn-out court case. In reality, many claims are resolved through settlement before a lawsuit is even filed. When a case does go to court, it’s usually because the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. The process is often less stressful than people expect, especially when they have the right legal support.
At Kiefer & Kiefer, we’ve worked with clients who were hesitant to start a claim because they believed it would turn into a long legal battle. Once we helped explain the process, they felt more confident moving forward.
You Don’t Have To Go Through It Alone
If you’ve been injured and aren’t sure what your rights are, the best step is to talk with someone who understands how personal injury law works. As your New Orleans, LA personal injury lawyer, we help people figure out what’s real and what’s just noise. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
We’re here to help you get clear answers and decide what’s best for your situation. If you’re dealing with an injury and have questions about your claim, reach out to us today to set up a free consultation. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we’re ready to help you take the next step with confidence.
