Personal Injury Myths Debunked: What You Need to Know
When it comes to personal injury claims, there’s no shortage of misconceptions floating around. Many people have a distorted view of what personal injury law really entails, which can often prevent them from seeking the help they need after an accident. At Gildeas Solicitors, we believe in setting the record straight. In this blog post, we’ll tackle some of the most common personal injury myths and debunk them once and for all. If you’ve been injured in Scotland, knowing the truth is key to understanding your rights and getting the compensation you deserve.
Myth: “Personal injury claims are just for serious accidents.”
One of the biggest myths we encounter is the belief that personal injury claims are only relevant for life-threatening or catastrophic accidents. The reality is that you can claim compensation for a wide range of injuries, including minor ones, as long as they were caused by someone else’s negligence.
Whether it’s a slip and fall at the supermarket, a whiplash injury after a minor road accident, or even an injury caused by potholes, personal injury law in Scotland covers a broad spectrum of situations. Don’t underestimate the impact of even minor injuries—if you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s fault, you could be entitled to compensation.
Myth: “It’s too expensive to make a personal injury claim.”
Many people avoid pursuing a personal injury claim because they fear it will cost them a fortune in legal fees. However, in Scotland, most personal injury solicitors, including Gildeas Solicitors, operate on a no win, no fee basis. This means that if your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t be charged for the legal costs. It’s only if you win the case and secure compensation that the solicitor will receive a fee, which is typically a percentage of your settlement.
This arrangement ensures that anyone can access justice, regardless of their financial situation. Don’t let worries about cost prevent you from seeking the compensation you deserve.
Myth: “I can’t make a claim if the accident was partially my fault.”
It’s a common misconception that if you were partly responsible for an accident, you can’t make a claim. In Scotland, the law operates under the principle of contributory negligence, which means that even if you share some of the responsibility for the incident, you may still be able to claim compensation.
For example, if you were involved in a road traffic accident where you weren’t wearing a seatbelt or didn’t follow the road markings properly, but the other driver was mainly at fault, you could still be entitled to compensation. The compensation amount might be reduced depending on your level of fault, but it doesn’t rule out your right to claim.
Myth: “Personal injury claims take years to resolve.”
It’s true that some personal injury claims can be complex and take time to resolve. However, many claims in Scotland are settled within months, especially when the injury is straightforward, and liability is clear. At Gildeas Solicitors, we work hard to ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
The length of your claim will depend on factors such as the severity of the injury, the complexity of the case, and how quickly the responsible party accepts liability. However, with the right legal representation, you can rest assured that your claim is in good hands and being processed as quickly as possible.
Myth: “I don’t need a solicitor for a small claim.”
Another myth that keeps many people from seeking legal support is the belief that they don’t need a solicitor for smaller claims. Whether your injury is minor or more complex, having expert legal representation is always advisable. Personal injury claims can be complicated, and insurance companies may not always offer you the compensation you deserve.
A qualified solicitor will be able to accurately assess your case, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure that you receive a fair settlement. Even if you believe your injury is minor, a solicitor will consider all potential costs such as lost wages and future expenses related to your recovery, meaning you receive a fair settlement for your injuries.
Myth: “The process is too complicated for me to handle.”
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by the legal process after an injury. However, personal injury law in Scotland is designed to be accessible, and an experienced solicitor will guide you through every step. From gathering evidence and liaising with insurance companies to negotiating settlements, your solicitor will handle the complexities, leaving you to focus on your recovery.
At Gildeas Solicitors, we take pride in offering clear, compassionate, and professional guidance throughout your claim. We’ll ensure that you understand the process, keep you updated, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t Let Myths Stop You from Seeking Justice
If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t let these myths prevent you from seeking the compensation you deserve. At Gildeas Solicitors, we’re committed to debunking these misconceptions and helping people across Scotland get the justice they deserve.
Whether your injury is minor or major, our team of expert personal injury solicitors will provide you with the advice and support you need to navigate the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get started on your personal injury claim.
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Gildeas Solicitors is a recognised law firm specialising in personal injury claims, supporting you throughout Scotland from our offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We’re passionate about what we do, whilst putting our clients’ interests first. That’s why we make personal injury personal.
Considering our services? Call our dedicated New Claims team today on 0141 331 6070.