Getting hurt in an accident is scary enough. But myths about personal injury law make things even worse. These false beliefs stop many Port St. Lucie residents from getting the help they deserve. Let’s clear up the confusion and set the record straight.
Myth 1: “Minor Injuries Don’t Count”
The Truth: Even small injuries can become big problems.
That “minor” whiplash from your fender-bender might seem like no big deal. But weeks later, you’re still in pain. Your neck hurts when you turn your head. You can’t sleep well. Work is harder.
Florida law doesn’t care if your injury seems minor. What matters is how it affects your life. You can file a claim for any injury that causes medical bills, missed work, or pain and suffering. Don’t let anyone tell you your injury “isn’t serious enough.”
Myth 2: “You Have Forever to File a Claim”
The Truth: You only have two years in Florida.
This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. Florida’s statute of limitations gives you exactly two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss this deadline, and you lose your right to compensation forever.
Two years might sound like plenty of time, but it’s not. Building a strong case takes months. Evidence needs to be gathered. Medical records must be collected. Witnesses need to be interviewed. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Myth 3: “Insurance Companies Will Be Fair”
The Truth: Insurance companies are businesses, not your friends.
Insurance companies make money by paying out as little as possible. They have teams of lawyers and adjusters whose job is to minimize what they pay you. They might seem friendly on the phone, but their goal is to settle your claim quickly and cheaply.
That first settlement offer? It’s probably way less than your case is worth. Insurance companies hope you’ll take it without knowing any better. They won’t tell you about future medical costs or lost earning potential.
Myth 4: “Hiring a Lawyer Is Too Expensive”
The Truth: Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency.
Here’s how it really works: if you don’t win, you don’t pay attorney fees. The Port St. Lucie personal injury lawyer you select typically works on a contingency basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case or negotiate a settlement.
The fee comes out of your settlement or court award, not your pocket. Many people actually end up with more money after paying lawyer fees than they would have gotten on their own.
Myth 5: “You Can Only Sue for Medical Bills”
The Truth: Personal injury compensation covers much more.
Medical bills are just the beginning. In Florida, you can seek compensation for:
- All medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
If your injury affects your ability to work, enjoy hobbies, or live normally, that has real value under the law.
Myth 6: “If You Were Partly at Fault, You Get Nothing”
The Truth: Florida uses comparative negligence.
Maybe you were speeding when someone ran a red light and hit you. Or perhaps you were looking at your phone when you slipped on a wet floor. Does this mean you can’t recover anything?
Not in Florida. The state uses a “comparative negligence” system. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation gets reduced by your percentage of fault, but you don’t lose everything.
Don’t Let Myths Cost You
These myths keep good people from getting the help they need. If you’ve been hurt in Port St. Lucie, don’t let false beliefs stop you from exploring your options. The consultation is usually free, and you’ll learn exactly what your case is worth.
Remember: insurance companies and at-fault parties are counting on you not knowing your rights. Don’t let them win.
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