Mario Vasquez, a New York Attorney, on Personal Injury Law Myths

Personal injury law cases need to be traversed carefully, taking all details into account as all involved parties work to paint a comprehensive picture of the incident in question.

That said, it is important to consider — and ultimately forgo — a variety of enduring myths surrounding the personal injury litigation process. These myths often lead to a variety of pitfalls, which at times can yield dire consequences for under prepared parties.

Here are several common personal injury law myths, debunked.

Myth: “I don’t need to talk to a lawyer, as the situation is minor”
It is possible to reach a personal injury settlement by yourself, but the unfortunate reality is that, without legal counsel, you will likely risk settling for much less compensation than you would otherwise. No matter how minor the situation may seem (including the injuries sustained), it is usually wise to seek representation to ensure your case is handled properly. Having a lawyer present will not only broaden your legal perspective, it will send a message that you are serious about reaching a fair settlement.

Myth: “The opposing party was negligent, so I am guaranteed quick compensation”
Nothing is guaranteed in personal injury law (or law in general); all involved parties have a right to due process prior to any compensation arrangements, and therefore it is wrong to assume a case will automatically go your way — even if you are certain you were not at fault. The process can be a lengthy one, and it primarily boils down to how much the opposing party is willing to contest liability. That said, the best thing to do, initially, is to work with your lawyer to provide an accurate account of the incident and assessment of sustained injuries.

Myth: “I can put off filing a lawsuit — I have plenty of time”
It can be important to avoid long term legal procrastination in a personal injury scenario, as there are certain statutes of limitations that can impact whether or not a case is seen through to begin with (in New York, the limitation for a personal injury case is three years). You should approach a potential lawsuit with a sense of urgency, but keep in mind that rushing into a lawsuit can also have consequences, so focus on proper but prompt preparation.

Mario Vasquezhas a diverse and extensive curriculum in both education, travel, and professional endeavors. He currently serves as an Attorney and Counselor at his own law firm in New York City, New York.

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