Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but dealing with insurance companies, injuries, and paperwork can be overwhelming. But what many accident victims don’t realize is that even small missteps after a crash can seriously weaken your personal injury claim or cost you compensation altogether. To help protect your rights and your recovery, Lastimado Texas will share some common mistakes you should avoid after a car accident.
Not Calling the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, never skip calling law enforcement. A police report provides an official, third-party account of the accident and can include important details like:
• Statements from drivers and witnesses
• A preliminary assessment of fault
• Diagrams of the scene
Without this report, your claim may lack credibility, especially if the other driver changes their story later.
Failing to Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able to, take photos and videos immediately after the crash. Skipping this step could mean losing critical evidence such as vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs and signals, injuries and positioning of vehicles. Once vehicles are moved and the scene is cleared, that evidence is gone forever.
Admitting Fault or Apologizing
It’s human nature to want to say “I’m sorry” after an accident, but even innocent words can be twisted against you. Don’t admit fault or speculate about what happened, stick to the facts and let investigators determine responsibility. Insurance adjusters and opposing attorneys can use your words to argue that you were at least partially responsible, reducing your potential payout.
Delaying Medical Treatment
Waiting too long to see a doctor or not going at all can seriously hurt your claim. Insurance companies may argue that:
• Your injuries aren’t serious
• You weren’t actually hurt in the accident
• Your pain was caused by something else
Always get checked out as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. Some injuries like whiplash or concussions don’t show symptoms right away.
Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters might seem friendly, but they’re not on your side. They may ask you for a recorded statement soon after the crash, hoping you’ll say something that hurts your case. Never provide a recorded statement without talking to a personal injury lawyer first. What you say can and will be used against you.
Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer
After an accident, insurance companies may offer a fast settlement but it’s rarely fair. These early offers often come before you’ve finished medical treatment, you know the full extent of your injuries and you understand the long-term impact on your life and work. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more. A lawyer can help you understand what your case is really worth before you make any decisions.
Not Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Trying to handle your claim alone can backfire especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries, missed work, or are facing long-term medical care. A personal injury attorney can:
• Handle all communication with insurers
• Help you gather evidence
• Estimate the full value of your claim
• Fight for the compensation you deserve
They will protect your rights and allow you to focus on healing.
Personal Injury Attorneys in Mansfield, TX (Just Minutes from Midlothian, Euless, Bedford, Irving, Hurst, Burleson, Kennedale, Grand Prairie, Duncanville, Waxahachie, Red Oak & Arlington, Texas)
Accident victims often make mistakes out of confusion or lack of experience. But with the right guidance and by avoiding these common errors you can greatly improve your chances of a successful personal injury claim. If you have been injured in a car accident and aren’t sure what to do next, call Lastimado Texas today.
