Getting hurt in an accident can flip your life upside down. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or any other unexpected event, you’re suddenly left with pain, bills, and stress. You might think that filing a personal injury claim is simple. But the truth is, one small mistake can cost you a fair settlement. That’s why knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
At Richards Penn Bonner, they have seen countless people lose out on the compensation they deserve because of avoidable errors. Filing a claim the right way isn’t about being lucky. It’s about being prepared and informed. Let’s go over the top five mistakes people often make—and how you can avoid them.
1. Waiting Too Long to File Your Claim
Time is not your friend after an injury. Most states have strict deadlines, called statutes of limitations. If you miss that window, your case could be thrown out, no matter how serious your injury is.
You also risk losing key evidence the longer you wait. Witnesses forget. Records disappear. Photos get deleted. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be.
2. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
Some people think, “I’m fine. I don’t need to see a doctor.” But even minor pain can turn into major problems later. Delaying medical treatment gives insurance companies a reason to argue that your injury wasn’t serious, or wasn’t even caused by the accident.
Always go to a doctor right away. It helps your health and creates a medical record that links your injury to the incident.
3. Talking Too Much to Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but remember—they work for the insurance company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim.
Don’t give recorded statements without talking to a lawyer. And never admit fault, even if you think you might have done something wrong. Let the professionals handle the talking.
4. Posting About the Accident on Social Media
It might feel natural to post about your accident or injuries on Facebook or Instagram. But be careful. Insurance companies check social media. They might use your posts to suggest you’re not hurt or that your story doesn’t match up.
Even innocent photos or comments can be taken out of context. It’s better to keep your case private until everything is resolved.
5. Trying to Handle Everything Without Legal Help
Personal injury law is complex. It’s full of deadlines, documents, and negotiation tactics. Going it alone often leads to lower settlements—or no settlement at all.
A good lawyer knows how to build your case, deal with insurance companies, and fight for what you deserve. You don’t have to go through it alone, and you shouldn’t.
Final Thoughts
Filing a personal injury claim isn’t just paperwork. It’s your chance to recover physically, emotionally, and financially after something that wasn’t your fault. But mistakes can hold you back if you’re not careful.
Act quickly. Get medical help. Be careful who you talk to. Stay off social media. And always consider getting legal support early on.
Avoiding these five common mistakes can make a big difference in your case. It’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about knowing what to avoid so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
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