Top 4 Misconceptions About Auto Accidents
- Vrdolyak Law Group
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, there’s a good chance you’ve heard a lot of conflicting information about what happens next. Many people don’t fully understand their rights, how compensation works, or what to expect when pursuing a personal injury claim.
At The Vrdolyak Law Group, we believe in educating accident victims so they can make informed decisions about their cases. Here are the four biggest misconceptions about being in an auto accident—and the truth behind them.
“You Have to Pay Taxes on Your Injury Settlement”
One of the most common misconceptions is that if you receive compensation for your injuries, you’ll have to pay taxes on it. The truth? Generally speaking, personal injury settlements are tax-free under federal and state law. This means that compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages due to an accident is not considered taxable income—helping you keep the full amount of your recovery.
“The At-Fault Driver Pays Out of Pocket"
Many people worry that if they file a claim, they’re personally taking money from the other driver. However, in most cases, it’s not the driver paying—it’s their insurance company.
Most states require drivers to carry auto insurance, and when an accident occurs, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for paying the injured party’s damages. That’s exactly why drivers are required to carry coverage—to protect both themselves and others financially in the event of an accident.
“The Value of a Case Is Determined by Medical Bills Alone”
A lot of people believe that the value of a personal injury case is based on a simple formula, such as multiplying medical bills by a certain number. This is not true.
While medical expenses are an important factor, many other elements influence the value of a case, including:
- The severity of the injuries
- The impact on your daily life and ability to work
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical expenses
- The strength of the legal arguments presented
This is why experienced, aggressive law firms consistently secure higher financial recoveries—because they know how to maximize the value of each case.
4. “Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer Is Expensive”
Some people hesitate to hire a lawyer because they think they’ll have to pay expensive fees upfront. The reality? Reputable personal injury law firms work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:
- You pay nothing upfront.
- The law firm covers all case-related expenses.
- You only pay a fee if you win your case.
At The Vrdolyak Law Group, we believe that everyone deserves top-tier legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. You don’t have to worry about legal fees—we only get paid when we win for you.
Get the Facts & Protect Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, don’t let misconceptions keep you from getting the compensation you deserve. The Vrdolyak Law Group has been fighting for accident victims for over 60 years.