Common Car Accident Myths Debunked

Being involved in a car accident in central New York is stressful enough without the added confusion of misleading advice. Unfortunately, myths and misinformation about what to do after a crash are common and can jeopardize your right to pursue compensation.

Our team of experienced Syracuse car accident lawyers has debunked some of the most common car accident myths below. Get the facts, protect your rights, and stay informed so you’re prepared if the unexpected happens.

Filing a Police Report

• Myth: Minor car accidents don’t require a police report.
• Fact: Filing a police report is essential, even for minor accidents.

It is a common belief among many drivers that if an accident is relatively minor and involves no injuries, such as a small fender-bender, reporting it to the police is unnecessary.

In reality, even these smaller incidents can lead to disputes. Having a police report describing the accident from an unbiased point of view can be invaluable. They often include not only essential details such as the date, time, location, and weather conditions but also statements from all parties involved and any witnesses. This information can help prove your case and improve your chances of recovering compensation if the other party denies fault.

Determining Fault in Accidents

• Myth: You can’t receive compensation if you’re partially at fault.
• Fact: In New York, you can still recover damages even if you’re partially at fault.

The state of New York follows a pure comparative negligence principle. According to this legal principle, while you may be entitled to compensation in any accident you’re involved in, the amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if an insurance adjuster determines you are 20% at fault in a car crash, you are entitled to 80% of the total damages. Unlike in many other states, the rule applies even if you are more than 50% at fault. For example, if you’re 70% at fault, you may still recover up to 30%.

Getting representation from experienced Syracuse car accident lawyers can help minimize your liability and maximize your recovery, no matter your percentage of fault.

Getting Insurance Settlements

• Myth: Insurance companies usually offer fair settlements.
• Fact: Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts.

While insurance companies may seem helpful at first glance, their primary goal is to protect their bottom line. An adjuster’s initial settlement offer is almost always much lower than the amount you are entitled to. They may attempt to downplay your injuries and damages or get you to admit fault or responsibility to justify a reduced payout.

A knowledgeable attorney can level the playing field and help you recognize their tactics to pressure you into accepting a low settlement. They can also negotiate on your behalf and obtain an offer that covers the full extent of your damages, from medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering.

Seeking Medical Attention

• Myth: You don’t need to see a doctor if you feel fine after an accident.
• Fact: Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.

Adrenaline and shock can mask injuries after an accident, and many conditions like whiplash or internal trauma may not show up for several hours or even days.

You should always seek medical attention after an auto accident, such as by calling paramedics or seeing a doctor. Doing so will allow you to detect and document all accident-related injuries and create the medical records you need to prove your case.

It will also protect you from insurance companies trying to hurt your claim. For instance, if you don’t see a doctor as soon as possible after a crash, they may argue your injuries are not accident-related or as severe as they seem.

Hiring a Lawyer

• Myth: You only need a lawyer if your case goes to court.
• Fact: Lawyers provide valuable assistance at every stage of the process.

Many people believe you only need a lawyer if you go to court. In reality, experienced car accident attorneys are valuable allies who can help you at every step of your accident case. They can give you legal guidance from the beginning, such as by helping you gather evidence for your accident or by handling negotiations with insurers.

An attorney’s experience dealing with auto accidents also allows them to evaluate your damages accurately. If they believe your case should go to court due to negotiations breaking down, your lawyer can help you prepare for litigation and fight until you win the compensation you deserve.

Get the Facts With a Syracuse Car Accident Lawyer

Don’t let misinformation get in the way of recovering a fair settlement. The knowledgeable Syracuse car accident attorney at Catalano Law can help you avoid common myths and pitfalls when managing your car accident case.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation. We can provide the accurate information and up-to-date legal advice you need to maximize your settlement.