Personal injury law is one of those topics that’s surrounded by misinformation. Whether it’s from TV dramas, social media, or just word of mouth, plenty of myths exist that make people hesitant about making a claim or, worse, lead them down the wrong path. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misconceptions and set the record straight once and for all.
1. You Can Easily Handle a Personal Injury Claim Yourself
This is one of the biggest and most damaging myths. While it’s technically possible to file a claim on your own, it’s far from easy. The legal system is complex, and insurance companies are not on your side. They have experienced adjusters and legal teams whose job is to minimise how much they pay out. Without legal expertise, you risk missing key details, undervaluing your claim, or even having it dismissed entirely. A personal injury lawyer Perth knows how to gather evidence, negotiate settlements, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
2. You Have Unlimited Time to Make a Claim
Time limits for personal injury claims exist, and they’re strict. The exact deadline depends on the type of claim and location, but waiting too long can mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Many people assume they can file whenever they’re ready, only to find out too late that their claim is no longer valid. Even if you think you have plenty of time, it’s always best to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.
3. Personal Injury Claims Always Go to Court
The idea of a long, stressful court battle puts a lot of people off making a claim, but the reality is that most personal injury cases never make it to trial. In fact, the vast majority are settled outside of court through negotiations. Lawyers work to secure fair compensation without dragging the case through lengthy litigation. Only if negotiations fail does it proceed to court, and even then, your lawyer will handle everything for you.
4. If You Were Partly at Fault, You Can’t Claim
Many people wrongly assume that if they share some blame for an accident, they’re completely ineligible for compensation. That’s not true. Many legal systems follow a system of ‘comparative negligence’ or ‘contributory negligence,’ meaning you can still claim as long as another party is also at fault. Your compensation might be reduced based on your level of responsibility, but you won’t automatically lose your right to claim.
5. Personal Injury Claims Are Quick and Easy
Some cases are straightforward, but most take time. The length of a case depends on several factors, including the severity of injuries, complexity of liability, and the willingness of insurance companies to negotiate. Rushing a claim can often result in a lower settlement, especially if long-term medical issues arise after accepting an offer. A thorough legal process ensures you get the full amount you’re entitled to, not just a quick payout.
6. Personal Injury Lawyers Are Expensive and Not Worth It
Many people assume that hiring a lawyer means huge upfront costs. In reality, most personal injury lawyers work on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they successfully recover compensation for you. Even then, their fees come from the settlement, not your pocket. In almost every case, having a lawyer results in a higher payout than attempting to handle things alone.
7. Compensation Is Just About Medical Bills
While medical expenses are a major part of a claim, they’re not the only thing you can recover compensation for. Depending on your case, you may also be entitled to lost wages, ongoing rehabilitation costs, home modifications, pain and suffering, and even loss of quality of life. Many people settle for far less than they deserve because they assume it’s just about covering medical bills, when in reality, the impact of an injury goes far beyond that.
8. Making a Personal Injury Claim Is Greedy or Opportunistic
One of the most damaging myths is the idea that seeking compensation makes you greedy or that people who file claims are just looking for a quick payday. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Personal injury claims exist to help people recover from genuine losses caused by someone else’s negligence.
Injuries can lead to overwhelming medical bills, time off work, ongoing rehabilitation, and a serious impact on daily life. A claim isn’t about ‘taking advantage’—it’s about getting the financial support needed to recover and move forward. The legal system is designed to hold responsible parties accountable, ensuring that injured individuals aren’t left struggling because of someone else’s mistakes.
Don’t Let Myths Stop You from Claiming What You Deserve
Misinformation stops many people from taking action after an accident, but knowing the truth puts you in a much stronger position. Personal injury law exists to protect victims and ensure they get the support and compensation they need. If you’re ever in doubt, the best thing to do is speak to a professional who can give you clear, accurate advice based on your situation.
