When people think about personal injury law, car accidents, slips, dog bites, and the like will come to mind. Product liability happens to fall under this umbrella as well. While there isn't always some kind of immediately apparent physical damage, the different effects that a defective product can have on a consumer are vast.
Apart from the uniqueness surrounding how the matter unfolds, there's also the consideration of who is responsible. This is where legal representation is important. The entity selling the defective product is not always the one that is responsible for the damages it causes.
It stands to reason that myths about personal injury cases of this nature are out there, as there is a fundamental lack of understanding. The idea today is to demystify the area of product liability.
Common Misconceptions about Product Liability Accidents
These accidents in Missouri are often surrounded by the kinds of misconceptions that can prevent victims from seeking fair compensation. There are also many common pedestrian accident myths in Missouri.
Understanding the realities of liability claims is essential to making informed decisions about a case.
A personal injury lawyer can help with navigating the complexities of product liability law, so a victim can be poised to receive a fair settlement. They can also consult on common slip and fall injury myths in Missouri.
After all, there are policies, legal rights, and more that will all come together to determine what the outcome of the matter will be.
Companies understand the implications well, which is why they will invest in strong legal representation to minimize liability. Victims, therefore, should never approach these matters unprotected.
Myth #1: Minor Injuries Don't Necessitate a Personal Injury Claim
Minor injuries can still result in significant suffering and financial losses. Even if a victim didn’t miss work, they may still be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering.
A personal injury lawyer will usually help a client understand the full extent of the legalities surrounding injuries. After all, these details will form the foundation for receiving adequate funds for medical treatment and lost wages.
The affected party's perception of the injury does not matter. Personal injury lawsuits are more about the measurable effects, and what kinds of redress may be necessary to make the victim as "whole" as possible.
Myth #2: A Personal Injury Lawyer Isn't Needed for Small Claims
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even for small claims. A product liability attorney is an excellent asset if this attempt at swindling is to be avoided.
Experienced legal professionals tend to be acutely aware of the tactics insurance firms may employ. This makes it a lot more likely that a strong claim will be put forward.
This idea that small claims do not require legal assistance is one of the common myths that has likely caused many victims to suffer with no compensation.
Don't underestimate the ruthlessness of insurance companies. If a settlement were as low as $100, and they could avoid it, they would.
Myth #3: Insurance Will Take Care of Everything
By this point, it should be incredibly clear that insurance companies prioritize profits over people. They may even use shady tactics to minimize payouts and deny claims. Get rid of the perception that these firms are kind and willing to help, which means that they will handle everything.
Here's a common example. When cases involving personal injuries happen, the negligent party's insurance company may reach out to "check on the victim." The representative making contact will sound attentive and ask about the injured party's well-being.
All they want is even the slightest indication that the victim isn't feeling too bad. Once they have that, they will use it to avoid compensation.
Myth #4: A Personal Injury Claim Will Ruin Lives
Filing a personal injury claim is not about ruining anyone’s life. The focus lies on seeking justice and compensation for injuries.
Most claims are settled out of court, and the defendant’s insurance company will typically pay the required amount. Bear in mind that many companies could also afford to pay for the damages if they really wanted to.
Many victims can become overly concerned with the extent to which they are creating financial hardships for the defending party. Unfortunately, they forget that this is the same party that is trying to avoid providing necessary funding in a time of need.
Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, etc., will not pay for themselves. Furthermore, insurance companies have very deep pockets. Get in the frame of mind that allows for zero reservations about having these firms honor their obligations.
Myth #5: Lawyers Will Take All the Money from a Personal Injury Case
The fee charged by an attorney is typically a percentage of the settlement. Additionally, the terms of engagement are always made clear upfront. Unlike shady companies, reputable personal injury lawyers know not to take advantage of someone during a vulnerable time.
Attorneys focus on ensuring that innocent people do not pay for someone else's negligence. Victims are advised to ask all the questions they want during the consultation phase. That way, there will be no ambiguity surrounding what legal help will cost. For more information, a lawyer for product liability lawsuits may be able to help.
Personal Injury Cases Are Complex
Personal injury cases can involve complex statutes and laws. This is one of the main reasons why attorneys are great assets. It doesn't get any better than someone acting in the best interest of the victim while being well aware of all the rules that matter.
Legal professionals can also help victims understand the risks and benefits of filing a claim. Agency should never be taken away from those who are hurt, and having data means that informed decisions can be made.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer Today!
If you’ve suffered a product liability accident in Missouri, don’t let misconceptions hold you back from seeking fair compensation. Many before you have made that mistake, and it means that their lives have taken more unwanted turns than were necessary.
Take note of all the information that was presented above. If a company has wronged you with a defective product, they should be expected to make it right. Allow Powell Law Firm to walk alongside you while you get what you deserve!
Schedule a free consultation with an expert Missouri product liability attorney to discuss your case. Call us today!
Kenneth Powell
Founding & Managing Attorney
Attorney Kenny Powell currently focuses the majority of his legal practice on personal injury. His experience as a judicial intern in both the Missouri Court of Appeals and the United States District Court, give him a unique understanding of State and Federal law respectively. Mr. Powell enjoys treating every client, “as he would want to be treated” and will fight for your rights.
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