Debunking Common Myths About Car Accident Injury Claims in Stockton

Millions of car crashes and motor vehicle accidents are reported annually in the US. If you were injured in an accident in Stockton, you may have many questions about how the personal injury claims process works. Unfortunately, many people assume that they can find all sorts of information online. While the internet is buzzing with resources, your case is unique and must be evaluated for various aspects. Consider meeting a top attorney like Redkey Gordon to learn more about your situation. For your help, we have debunked some of the common myths about car accident claims in Stockton. 

Myth 1: You don’t need to see a doctor for smaller injuries

Even when you haven’t suffered severe injuries in a car crash, it is still essential to see a doctor. Remember, not all your symptoms and injuries may be visible immediately. Also, minor injuries could translate into major medical concerns with time. Once you seek immediate care, you already have the records required to show the expenses you have incurred. You cannot expect to recover the cost of medical care if you don’t have the documentation. 

Myth 2: Insurance companies will pay for everything

Again, that’s a common myth. California is a fault state for car crashes, which means you will usually file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. That said, you can also leverage your existing Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, and your insurance carrier may cover the initial costs. However, keep in mind that insurance companies aren’t in the business of charity. Claims adjusters do everything to cut down payouts, and there are several aspects, including exclusions, deductibles, and policy limits, which can impact the outcome. Don’t trust the insurance agent blindly! 

Myth 3: You cannot sue the other party if you are to blame

It often happens that two drivers share the blame for a car accident. In many states, a party is barred from suing the other if they are more at fault, but California follows the pure “comparative fault” norm. Even if you are mostly liable for causing the mishap, you can still recover damages. However, the final amount will be lower depending on the fault percentage. Let’s take an example – You were 50% at fault and managed to win $30,000 in a settlement. Because you are also liable, you can now recover $15,000. 

Myth 4: You have to go to court

A substantial number of personal injury claims in California are settled through insurance or between parties, and the list includes car accident cases, too. Going to trial is not just expensive, but the process can drag on for months. In many situations, people prefer to resolve things out of court. However, you need to be smart about dealing with the discussion because you don’t want to accept the first offer. Also, insurance companies are unlikely to make a fair offer initially. 

Myth 5: Hiring an attorney is for the rich

False! Anyone with a personal injury claim should hire an attorney. Hiring an attorney allows you to leverage their legal expertise and recover the maximum settlement amount. If you are worried about the financials, you should know that most car accident lawyers in Stockton work on contingency, where the lawyer only gets a share of your compensation. If you don’t recover money, you don’t pay anything – simple. Also, attorneys know how to investigate auto accidents and have all sorts of resources and contacts, which can come in handy during the evidence discovery process. 

Make a list of attorneys in Stockton and ensure the one you choose is experienced in the field and has the capability to represent you in court.