If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver, you are probably at a loss regarding how best to proceed. You have also, no doubt, heard the myths surrounding car accidents that are out there. Do not let these myths sway your actions – instead, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney today.
Myth 1: If You Were Not to Blame, You Are Guaranteed Compensation
In the state of Texas, if you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, it will kick in to cover your losses after a car accident no matter who is at fault. If you carry PIP insurance, that is. The fact is, however, that this coverage is not only expensive but also rarely covers the full extent of damages. If you do not have PIP coverage, you will need to hold the at-fault driver and his or her insurance provider responsible, but you will likely need to fight for the compensation to which you are entitled.
Myth 2: The Police Report Will Prove Fault
If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another motorist’s negligence, you may think that the police report you obtained is all you need to prove fault, but this is a myth. While having a police report is a great start, there is no guarantee that the report will address fault or prove fault one way or the other. Police reports stick to the facts and do not speculate about the matter at hand. An experienced personal injury attorney, however, has the experienced to interpret the facts outlined in the police report.
Myth 3: Rear-End Accidents Are Always Caused by the Rear Motorist
Many motorists are under the mistaken belief that all rear-end crashes are caused by the rear driver, but there are a variety of instances when this is not the case. These include:
- When a front motorist cuts another driver off
- When a front driver brakes erratically and for no reason
- When a front driver merges into traffic dangerously and/or carelessly
Any of these actions can contribute to or cause a rear-end car accident. While the rear driver is naturally responsible for keeping a safe distance and concentrating on driving safely, a dangerous forward driver can elicit a serious rear-end accident.
Myth 4: A Personal Injury Attorney Is Too Expensive
The myth that is perhaps most prevalent is that personal injury attorneys are simply too expensive to make bringing a case worthwhile. The fact is, however, that a personal injury attorney will charge you nothing unless he or she wins your case for you (or reaches a settlement with the insurance company). Your attorney’s payment will amount to a specific percentage of the amount you are ultimately awarded.