The costs and injuries involved with being in an auto accident can have terrible consequences for your life. While there are laws in place to protect accident victims, it is an unfortunate fact that misconceptions surrounding these accidents can make people hesitant about pursuing their rights. If you have had the misfortune of being the victim of an auto accident, you should make sure to know the realities behind these two myths.

Myth: You Have To Decide To File Suit Immediately

The decision to file a lawsuit against another person is a major choice to make, and it should not come as a surprise that many people need some time to reflect on whether or not this is the right choice for their needs. Luckily, many accident cases have a statute of limitations that spans several years. This can allow you to emotionally recover enough to be prepared to commit to pursuing justice through the civil court system.

However, you should be aware that you will not be able to file a lawsuit once the statute of limitations has expired. Also, your attorney will need to gather evidence to strengthen your case, and this can be difficult if a substantial amount of time has passed since the accident. For example, security tapes may only be kept for a limited time before they are erased and used again. By waiting too long, you may lose the ability to obtain the footage from these cameras.  

Myth: You Only Need Medical Attention If You Have Obvious Injuries

After being in an accident, many people may make the error of failing to be evaluated by a doctor because they do not feel any serious ill-effects of the accident. However, the force of even a minor car accident can cause serious issues for the body that may take several days or weeks before symptoms become noticeable. For example, whiplash is one of the more common injuries following an auto accident, and it can take several days before the symptoms become severe enough for the victim to realize that they require medical attention. By seeking this care immediately after the accident, it can be more difficult for the defense to argue that your injuries stemmed from anything other than the accident.

By understanding that you do not have to file a lawsuit immediately and that you should seek a medical evaluation regardless of whether you think you are injured, it will be easier for you to decide on how to recover the damages that you are entitled. Contact a lawyer like Speers Reuland & Cibulskis, P.C. for more information.