After a car accident, there may be a lot of things victims do not know, from who caused the accident to how extensive the toll of the crash could be. Finding out the answers to these and other questions can be difficult, and it can be tempting to make assumptions in the interest of time and simplicity.
However, making assumptions can be a costly mistake after a crash. It can lead to inaccurate conclusions or rob a person of legal and financial remedies – especially when it comes to the following myths.
Myth #1: Minor accidents result in minor injuries
If you are in a minor crash, you might assume that any injuries you have are also minor. However, even minor collisions can have a major impact on victims.
For instance, fender-benders can cause whiplash, back pain, and even brain injuries. Bumping into a pedestrian at a slow speed can cause sprains, serious lacerations, and broken bones. Rear-ending someone can exacerbate existing injuries causing severe pain.
Myth #2: Injuries will be visible and immediately evident
Accident injuries like broken bones or deep lacerations may be obvious and immediately painful. But some injuries are delayed; others cannot be seen.
After any traumatic event, people can experience depression or anxiety. These conditions do not necessarily become evident right away, and we can’t see the pain that someone may be in because of them. Further, some injuries may seem minor at first, but they can get worse over time.
Overlooking these physical and emotional injuries can be a costly mistake, so it is essential to monitor your health and well-being long after a crash to determine the extent of the damage.
Myth #3: If you are to blame, you cannot recover damages
In any accident, there is the potential for multiple parties to be liable. After all, no driver is perfect. However, some people assume that having any role in an accident bars them from recovering damages.
Per Pennsylvania comparative negligence laws, though, you can still seek damages for negligence if you were also negligent, as long as you were less negligent than the other party.
Making assumptions after a crash can be financially, legally and medically harmful. Before you draw any conclusions about your health, see a doctor. When it comes to your legal options, you contact The Quinn Law Firm at 814-806-2518 to discuss your case.
