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When you’ve been involved in a car crash, choosing whether to hire a car accident law firm can feel overwhelming. Misinformation only adds to that stress.
At Leav & Steinberg LLP, we’ve heard it all, from “You don’t need a lawyer unless you go to court” to “Attorneys just take all your money.” These myths can cost victims time, money, and justice. So let’s set the record straight.
In this post, we’re debunking the top myths about hiring a car accident law firm so you can make informed, empowered decisions.
Myth 1: “If My Case Is Simple, I Don’t Need a Lawyer”
A lawyer brings experience, negotiation power, and legal insight to any car accident case.
Even the most “straightforward” accidents can get complicated quickly. Insurance companies often undervalue claims or deny them outright. An experienced car accident law firm like Leav & Steinberg LLP helps ensure all medical expenses, lost wages, and damages are fully calculated and pursued.
Simple fender bender? That may be what it looks like until delayed injuries, denied coverage, or uncooperative insurers emerge.
Myth 2: “Lawyers Are Too Expensive — They Take All Your Settlement Money”
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis.
This means you don’t pay unless your lawyer wins your case. The fee is a percentage of the compensation recovered, agreed upon upfront. At Leav & Steinberg LLP, we ensure our clients understand every detail of their contingency agreement so there are no surprises.
Hiring a car accident law firm often leads to a higher settlement, even after legal fees, than going it alone.
Myth 3: “The Insurance Company Will Offer Me a Fair Deal”
Insurance companies prioritize minimizing payouts, not maximizing fairness.
Despite their friendly commercials, insurance adjusters are trained to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. They may offer lowball settlements before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
A skilled attorney evaluates the real value of your claim, brings in expert opinions when needed, and pushes for full compensation when communicating with insurance adjusters.
Myth 4: “I Can Just Use the Lawyer My Insurance Company Recommends”
Insurance-appointed lawyers serve the insurer’s interests, not yours.
Their job is to limit liability for the insurance company, not to advocate for your personal injury rights. If you were injured and need compensation, you need a dedicated plaintiff-side firm, like Leav & Steinberg LLP, whose only loyalty is to you.
Myth 5: “I Have Plenty of Time to File a Claim, So I’ll Wait”
New York’s statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing a car accident lawsuit.
Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in New York. But evidence disappears fast. Dashcam footage gets erased, witnesses move, and vehicles are repaired.
Acting quickly gives your car accident attorney time to build the strongest possible case while the evidence is fresh.
Myth 6: “Lawyers Will Just Drag Things Out”
A qualified car accident law firm works efficiently to maximize results, not delays.
While some cases do take time, especially serious injury cases or those involving disputed liability, experienced firms know how to move things forward. Leav & Steinberg LLP uses a proactive legal strategy and clear communication to avoid unnecessary delays.
Our goal is always to resolve your case as swiftly and successfully as possible.
Myth 7: “I Only Need a Lawyer If I’m Going to Trial”
Most car accident cases settle out of court with the help of skilled legal representation.
In fact, more than 90% of personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements.
The threat of trial, when backed by a credible law firm, often compels insurers to offer better terms. If a trial does become necessary, we’re fully prepared to litigate.
Leav & Steinberg LLP’s strong courtroom reputation helps our clients settle cases more favorably.
Myth 8: “I Didn’t Go to the Hospital Right Away, So I Don’t Have a Case”
Delayed medical treatment does not automatically disqualify a car accident injury claim.
Many car accident injuries, like concussions, soft tissue damage, or internal bleeding, can take hours or even days to show symptoms. Insurance companies may try to use a delay in treatment to question the severity of your injuries, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a valid case.
A seasoned car accident law firm like Leav & Steinberg LLP can help connect the dots between the accident and your eventual diagnosis, using medical records, expert testimony, and crash evidence to support your claim. Even if you didn’t seek care immediately, you still deserve justice.
Why Choose Leav & Steinberg LLP?
With decades of experience handling complex car accident cases in New York City, Leav & Steinberg LLP combines aggressive advocacy with compassionate client care. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for victims of negligence, and we know what it takes to win against powerful insurers.
Whether you’ve suffered whiplash in a rear-end crash or catastrophic injuries in a highway collision, our attorneys are ready to fight for what you deserve.
FAQ: Car Accident Law Firm Myths and Realities
What does a car accident law firm actually do?
A car accident law firm provides legal guidance, manages negotiations, and represents clients in injury claims.
From investigating the crash and preserving evidence to dealing with insurance companies and filing lawsuits, a law firm protects your interests every step of the way.
Will hiring a lawyer really make a difference in my settlement?
Lawyers often secure higher settlements due to their negotiation skills and legal strategy.
Studies show that accident victims represented by attorneys tend to receive significantly more compensation than those who represent themselves.
Is it too late to hire a lawyer if I already spoke with insurance?
You can still hire a lawyer even after speaking with insurance companies.
It’s not too late to get help, but the sooner, the better. Insurance adjusters may use your statements against you. An attorney can help correct the course and protect your rights moving forward.
What if I was partially at fault in the accident?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule, allowing partial-fault drivers to recover damages.
You can still recover compensation, but your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. A car accident law firm helps ensure your share of responsibility is not unfairly inflated.
Do I really need a lawyer if my injuries are minor?
Minor injuries can still result in significant costs and long-term impacts.
Even soft tissue injuries like whiplash can lead to chronic pain, lost income, and reduced mobility. A lawyer helps document your losses and pursue fair compensation.
Don’t Let Myths Cost You Compensation
The aftermath of a car accident is stressful enough without bad advice clouding your judgment.
Don’t let misconceptions keep you from getting the legal support you need.
Hiring a trusted car accident law firm like Leav & Steinberg LLP can mean the difference between a rushed payout and full financial recovery. Our job is to advocate for your rights, ease your burden, and help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
