Car Accident Myths: Essential Truths you Should Know!

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality for millions of people each year. Whether you’re involved in a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, accidents can be stressful, confusing, and overwhelming. Along with the physical and emotional aftermath, there are often many misconceptions about what happens after a car accident, and these car accident myths can lead to mistakes that might hurt a person’s legal standing or financial compensation.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common car accident myths surrounding car accidents, break down why they’re wrong, and provide accurate, reliable information that will help you navigate the aftermath of a collision with confidence.

Car Accident Myth 1: “If the Accident Was Minor, There’s No Need to Call the Police”

One of the most common car accident myths following a car accident is the belief that minor collisions don’t require police involvement. After all, if no one is injured, and the damage seems minimal, what’s the point of involving the police?

Reality:
Regardless of how minor the accident appears, it’s important to always call the police. In many states, a police report is required for insurance purposes, even if the accident seems relatively insignificant. Police officers document crucial details, such as the exact location of the accident, the vehicles involved, witness statements, and sometimes even assign fault based on their observations.

Having an official police report can significantly strengthen your case if there are disputes later on, whether with the insurance companies or in court. Additionally, some injuries or damage to vehicles may not be immediately visible, so having an official record helps protect you in case hidden injuries or damages become apparent days or weeks later.

Car Accident Myth 2: “If You’re Not At Fault, Your Insurance Will Cover Everything”

Another widespread car accident myth is that if you’re not at fault in an accident, your insurance should automatically cover all costs associated with the crash. This is especially true when people assume their own insurance company will handle the other party’s expenses.

Reality:
In most cases, insurance companies won’t automatically cover the other driver’s costs unless you have certain types of insurance coverage or the at-fault driver is unable to pay for the damages. Generally, if you’re not at fault, your own insurance policy (such as comprehensive or collision insurance) may cover your vehicle’s repairs, but contrary to the car accident myth, there are conditions.

If the other driver is at fault, their insurance should pay for your property damage and medical expenses, but this can get complicated. Sometimes, the at-fault driver’s insurance may try to avoid paying, or they might not have enough coverage to cover your medical bills and repairs. This is why it’s so important to have the right types of insurance, such as underinsured motorist coverage, to protect yourself.

Car Accident Myth 3: “If You’re Involved in a Minor Accident, You Don’t Need to Seek Medical Attention”

Many people believe that if they don’t feel pain immediately after a car accident, there’s no need to see a doctor. After all, if the collision was relatively minor and there are no obvious injuries, they might assume they’re fine. 

Reality:
This car accident myth is unfortunately misleading. Even minor accidents can result in injuries that don’t show symptoms right away. Whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and internal injuries can take days or even weeks to present symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, whiplash and soft tissue injuries often take hours or days to develop symptoms, making early medical consultation crucial. Some people may not feel pain due to adrenaline or shock immediately after the crash, but it can build over time.

It’s always a good idea to seek medical attention, even if you feel okay. A doctor can check for hidden injuries and document your condition, which can be important for any future insurance claims or legal proceedings. Additionally, failing to seek medical treatment early on could hurt your ability to claim damages for injuries later.

Car Accident Myth 4: “Insurance Adjusters Are There to Help You”

Many people mistakenly believe that insurance adjusters are there to look out for their best interests. After all, insurance companies are supposed to provide support in times of need, so surely the adjuster will help you get the compensation you deserve, right?

Reality:
While insurance adjusters are professionals trained to assess damages and settlements, their primary goal is to save the insurance company money. This car accident myth is unfortunately false, because adjusters will often try to settle claims for much less than the full amount you are entitled to.

Insurance companies may attempt to downplay your injuries or claim that the damages to your vehicle aren’t as severe as they are. Adjusters might even pressure you to accept a quick settlement, hoping you don’t realize the long-term costs of your injuries.

It’s important to remember that insurance adjusters work for the company, not for you. It’s always a good idea to consult with an attorney before accepting any offers or making statements that could affect your case.

Suggested Image:

• Insurance adjuster negotiating with a client – This image would demonstrate the relationship between an insurance company and a claimant, showing how claims may be undervalued.

Car Accident Myth 5: “If You’re Partially at Fault, You Can’t Receive Compensation”

Some people believe that if they are even partially at fault for an accident, they’re ineligible for compensation. This is especially true in states where the issue of comparative fault is in play.

Reality:
While fault is certainly a key component in any car accident claim, it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from receiving compensation if you’re partially at fault. In fact, many states follow a comparative fault or contributory negligence rule, which means that even if you are partly responsible for the crash, you can still pursue compensation. However, the amount you’re entitled to may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you.

For example, if the accident was 20% your fault, and the other driver was 80% responsible, you may be able to recover 80% of your damages. The key is to consult with an experienced attorney to understand how your state’s laws apply to your case and determine the best course of action.

Car Accident Myth 6: “Once the Accident is Settled, You Can’t Go Back for More Compensation”

Some people believe this car accident myth that once they’ve accepted a settlement from an insurance company, they can’t go back for additional compensation, even if they develop more severe injuries or their costs exceed what was originally covered.

Reality:
Once you sign a settlement agreement with an insurance company, it is typically a release of liability, meaning you waive the right to seek additional compensation related to that accident. This is why it’s so important to thoroughly assess the full extent of your injuries and damages before accepting a settlement.

In cases where injuries worsen over time or additional damages are uncovered, there is usually no recourse for additional compensation once the settlement is signed. That’s why it’s critical to consult a legal professional before accepting any offers from insurance companies and to ensure that the settlement fully reflects your current and potential future costs.

Car Accident Myth 7: “If You Don’t Have Collision Coverage, You Can’t Get Your Car Fixed”

Many people believe that if they don’t have collision insurance, they cannot get their car repaired after an accident, even if they are not at fault.

Reality:
Contrary to the car accident myth, collision coverage is designed to repair your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. However, if you don’t have collision insurance, there are still ways to have your car repaired if you were not at fault. The at-fault party’s insurance should cover the repairs, but if they are uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection (PIP), depending on your state.

Even if you lack collision coverage, don’t assume you’re out of luck. Consult your insurance company or an attorney to explore other options that may cover your car repairs.

Car Accident Myth 8: “Your Insurance Premium Will Skyrocket After a Car Accident”

Many drivers worry that even if they aren’t at fault for a car accident, their insurance premiums will dramatically increase once they file a claim. The fear of rising premiums often deters people from reporting accidents to their insurance company, even when they should.

Reality:
While it’s true that insurance premiums can increase after an accident, it often depends on several factors. If you are not at fault, your premiums may not rise significantly, or at all. In many states, insurers are prohibited from raising premiums for accidents where the policyholder wasn’t responsible. According to Insurance Information Institute (III), premiums may rise after an accident, but the extent largely depends on your insurer’s policies and the circumstances surrounding the crash.

However, if you are at fault, the situation can be different. Your premiums may increase, but the rise can vary based on your insurer, your driving record, and the severity of the accident. Additionally, some states have laws protecting drivers from premium hikes after a first accident.

It’s also important to note that if the other driver is at fault and you file a claim with their insurance company, your own premiums might not be affected. In such cases, the fault is on the other driver, not you.

Accident?

Our team of experienced car accident professionals is ready to help you assess your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the negligence of others dictate your future–let us be your advocate in this challenging time. Contact us today at 770Goodlaw.