Misconceptions About Personal Injury Lawsuits in New York 68289
Filing an injury claim is surrounded by myths that can discourage injured people from criminal defense lawyer seeking the damages they have a right to. Below are the most common false assumptions — and what actually happens in practice for traffic citation lawyer Saratoga each one.
**Myth: "If the accident was partly my fault, I cannot sue."**
That is an especially widespread misconceptions. New York uses a pure comparative negligence rule. What this means is DUI blood test attorney Saratoga you can still were partially at fault. What you receive is reduced by your percentage of responsibility — but it does not get wiped away.
**Misconception: "I don't need a lawyer — the insurance company is going to pay what I am owed."**
Carriers are for-profit entities measured by reducing payouts. Their first number is almost always lower than what your case is worth. A dedicated personal injury attorney knows the true value of your case — including ongoing care needs and wrongful death lawyer Saratoga quality-of-life damages that insurance companies typically ignore.
**Myth: "Personal injury lawsuits drag on forever."**
Though some cases do take extended time, a significant number of personal injury disputes in New York reach resolution within several months to a year. How long your case takes depends on the nature of the accident, how cooperative the insurance company is toward negotiations, and whether court involvement is unavoidable.
**Misconception: "It has been too long since my injury — I cannot do anything."**
The statute of limitations for the majority of personal injury cases in New York is 36 months. However, certain special circumstances that may shorten that window — for example claims against government entities, where require filing notice in just three months. If you are unsure whether your claim is still viable, consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
**Misconception: "Suing someone makes me a bad person."**
Seeking compensation for harm resulting from another party's irresponsible actions is your right under the law — not an act of felony defense attorney Saratoga greed. Treatment expenses, missed income, and ongoing suffering have real monetary weight. Holding the person who caused your injuries accountable is the way the justice system protects people like you.
The attorneys at Ianniello Chauvin, LLP, every client receive honest guidance from day one. There are no unrealistic claims — only a realistic picture of your case and a strategy for getting you the recovery you deserve.
