Brentwood Car Accidents

Top Myths about Car Accidents

At Matt Hardin Law, our legal team knows that many car accident victims are unsure of their next steps. Part of that is due to never have been in an accident before, and part of it is due to the many pervasive myths surrounding car accidents. As Brentwood car accident lawyers, we want to do everything we can to clear up these myths and help victims feel empowered and knowledgeable as they move forward with their lives after their accidents.

What are the Most Common Myths?

Some of the most common myths we speak to our clients about at our law firm include:

• Myth 1: Moving your car after an accident can jeopardize your chances of getting compensation.

The state of Tennessee has a law that protect drivers from being considered at-fault for causing an accident if they move their vehicles out of harm’s way. In fact, Tennessee Highway Patrol recommends that all drivers move their vehicles to the shoulder of the road after accidents due to the danger posed by oncoming traffic. Unfortunately, many accident victims become victims for a second time due to drivers not seeing the accident scene until its too late.

While it’s a good rule of thumb to move your vehicle, you should never make any unnecessary movements if anyone in the accident was severely injured. In that case, it’s better to immediately call 911 and wait for help to arrive before attempting to move the vehicle or move the victim.

• Myth 2: The insurance company will provide me with enough money to cover my expenses.

While insurance companies say they provide coverage for their customers in the event of accidents, their primary motivation is to protect their profits. Unfortunately, that often means victims like you get their claims reduced or even outright denied due to minor technicalities or the whims of the system. And when insurance companies do pay out, the award is often much less than what victims need to fully pay for their medical bills and replace their lost wages.

At Matt Hardin Law, our Brentwood auto accident lawyers fight to make sure the insurance company pays its fair share after an accident and that victims like you are fairly compensated.

• Myth 3: Car accident injuries are obvious right away.

While most car accident injuries do show up immediately after the accident, some can remain hidden for hours, days, or even weeks before causing serious and even life-threatening complications. Internal injuries can range from broken vertebrae, internal bleeding, perforated organs, and brain injuries that may not become symptomatic for long periods of time after the accident.

Because these injuries can remain hidden until it’s too late, it’s vital to see a doctor immediately after your accident to rule out any possible complications.

• Myth 4: Calling a lawyer means I’ll have to go to court.

While many people associate lawyers and lawsuits with the idea of sitting in a courtroom all day and being subjected to a trial, the reality is that most auto accident cases settle out of court. Our legal prepares every case as it’s going to trial, but most settlements are awarded out of court. We know that you’re busy—that’s why we handle all the hard work, including gathering evidence, filing paperwork, and negotiating with the insurance on your behalf.

The Franklin auto accident attorneys at Matt Hardin Law know that you’re probably unfamiliar with the process of filing a claim for a car accident—especially if it’s a new experience for you. But we’re here to walk you through it every step of the way.

To get in touch with our legal professionals, just dial fill out a free online form, and let us help you get the money you deserve.

Brentwood Car Accident FAQ