Seven Common Personal Injury Myths in Iowa: Debunking Misconceptions

Taking legal action against someone can be incredibly daunting, and it doesn't help that there are serious misconceptions out there. As a trusted personal injury law firm, our job is to ensure that our clients have access to factual information. This blog post will uncover seven common personal injury myths in Iowa.

Myth 1: Victims Can Handle Major Claims Themselves

While victims may be able to get a fair settlement for minor cuts and bruises, the truth is that when serious injuries, lots of pain and suffering, and disabilities are concerned, things can get complicated. Insurance companies will do all they can to get victims to settle for low amounts.

Without adequate knowledge of the law or experience with common tactics, it can be incredibly difficult for claimants to get the compensation they are rightly due. However, when the injured party has a renowned personal injury lawyer in Des Moines on their side, people tend to take them more seriously.

Attorneys are also committed to protecting their clients' rights and ensuring that they are never tricked into accepting unfair offers. They will ensure that justice prevails and that the injured victim gets the help they need.

Myth 2: Defendants Pay Settlements Out-of-Pocket

In many cases, injured parties are hesitant to file a personal injury claim because they are worried about the financial impact it will have on the defendant. The truth is that most drivers and homeowners have insurance.

Instead of having to pay from their own pockets, the insurance company usually takes care of it. So, injured victims should file their claim knowing they will not cause financial problems for the at-fault party.

It's also advisable to file a personal injury lawsuit when a person is negligent, as it prevents the same event from happening again. When there are real repercussions, people tend to be more careful, which can prevent future incidents and injuries. Claimants should think of it as saving someone else from pain and suffering.

Myth 3: Medical Expenses Are the Only Damages Victims Can Claim

Another common myth is that an injured party can only add their medical bills to their claims. This is simply not true, as there are often other types of damages in a personal injury case.

If the victim had to take time off work to recover, they can add lost wages to their claim. Moreover, property and punitive damages may also apply in some cases.

Non-economic expenses, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress, may also be added to the claim. It's best for injured victims to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney to determine the true value of their claim. They can also explain common car accident myths in Iowa.

Myth 4: An Injured Party Who Has Insurance Doesn't Need to File a Personal Injury Claim

Another common misconception is that victims who have medical and auto insurance will be covered in full for their damages and, therefore, do not need to file a lawsuit. Although insurers will often pay a portion of the expenses, in most cases, they will not cover the damages in full.

The truth is that drivers in Iowa are required to have auto insurance with a minimum of $20,000 coverage for injuries sustained by a single person. However, insurance policies have limitations.

They often do not take future medical expenses, such as ongoing rehabilitation or non-economic damages, into consideration. When extensive injuries are involved, it is best to consult a personal injury lawyer for advice on the best way forward.

Myth 5: All Claims Are Settled in Court

When it comes to personal injury claims, many people picture a dramatic court battle. Both sides have to present evidence such as medical records, surveillance footage, and more in order to prove their guilt or innocence. While this is sometimes the case, the majority of car accidents, product liability cases, etc., are settled outside of the courtroom.

According to statistics from The Law Dictionary, approximately 95% of lawsuits are settled through negotiation. So, those who are nervous about having to stand before a judge in a court of law can rest assured that the odds of that happening are pretty low.

Myth 6: A Personal Injury Lawyer Will Require Upfront Payment

The sad reality is that injured parties often shy away from personal injury claims because they believe that they cannot afford it. Fortunately, obtaining fair compensation with the help of an experienced attorney isn't as out-of-reach as one might think.

On the contrary, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This simply means that they will only receive payment for their services once a settlement is obtained.

Yes, that's right. There's no retainer fee involved. And, if the legal representative is unsuccessful at getting their client compensation, they will not charge them a fee.

This provides the assurance that the attorney will do everything in their power to win the case because if their client doesn't get a payout, neither do they.

Myth 7: Personal Injury Claims Are Frivolous Lawsuits

Unfortunately, the common belief is that people file lawsuits for just about anything. This could make claimants look like petty thieves for taking legal action. However, this is a myth and not a fact.

When a person or company's negligence causes harm to another person, that individual's life can be turned upside down. Serious injuries often require expensive surgical procedures, and lost income can plunge the affected person into financial hardship.

Personal injury claims are often the only hope these individuals have of taking their life back, and they should never be made to feel like they are wrong for taking legal action.

Moreover, financial penalties hold at-fault parties liable for their actions. This can prevent the person from causing future incidents.

When in Doubt, Victims Can Turn to a Trusted Des Moines Attorney

Filing a lawsuit can feel like an uphill battle. The good news is that victims are not left to fend for themselves. Tom Fowler Law is a reputable personal injury law firm in Iowa. We can help bring clarity and direction when negligence causes injuries.

Injured persons are encouraged to get in touch with us to learn more about their options. We would be happy to provide a free consultation to give personal injury victims a chance to speak to an experienced legal representative.