Navigating an injury claim after an accident can be challenging. Unfortunately, even a single misstep could lead to a lowball settlement—or worse, a denied claim altogether. Avoid these eight common mistakes to give yourself the best chance at receiving the compensation you deserve.
(Note: This blog is based on advice from Injury Lawyer Tate Meagher, with offices in Louisville and Shepherdsville, Kentucky, serving clients across the state.)
Mistake #1 – Delaying Medical Treatment
Delaying medical treatment can severely harm your claim. Insurance companies will argue that your injuries aren’t serious or that they were caused by something unrelated to the accident. If you’re in pain after an accident, seek medical care immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove that your injuries resulted from the accident.
Mistake #2 – Not Following Your Doctor’s Orders
Failing to follow your doctor’s recommendations—such as skipping appointments, avoiding physical therapy, or not taking prescribed medications—can damage your claim. Insurance companies will use this as evidence to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. Follow your doctor’s orders to not only recover fully but also protect the integrity of your case.
Mistake #3 – Giving a Recorded Statement
Providing a recorded statement to the insurance company can backfire. Insurance adjusters are trained to use your words against you, twisting innocent comments into evidence that minimizes your claim. Remember, you are not required to give a recorded statement, and it’s often best to avoid doing so.
Mistake #4 – Accepting the First Settlement Offer
The first offer from an insurance company is almost always a lowball attempt to settle quickly and cheaply. Accepting it may leave you with far less than what you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Unless the offer is for the full policy limits, never accept the first settlement. Negotiating further can often lead to a significantly higher payout.
Mistake #5 – Posting on Social Media While Your Claim is Pending
Posting updates, photos, or comments on social media can hurt your case. Insurance companies and defense attorneys often comb through social media accounts looking for evidence to undermine your claim. Even innocent posts can be twisted to create doubt about your injuries. The safest approach? Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
Mistake #6 – Not Collecting Evidence
Failing to gather evidence weakens your ability to prove fault and document your injuries. Photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and medical records are critical in supporting your claim. Without this evidence, insurance companies can easily argue that your version of events is unproven or exaggerated.
Mistake #7 – Talking Too Much to the Insurance Adjuster
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is to minimize payouts. They’re trained to ask leading questions, hoping you’ll unintentionally downplay your injuries or admit fault. If you have a lawyer, let them handle all communication with the insurance company to avoid making costly mistakes.
Mistake #8 – Trying to Represent Yourself
Handling your injury claim without a lawyer is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Injury claims are complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. An experienced injury lawyer knows how to build your case, negotiate effectively, and protect your rights. Representing yourself can leave you vulnerable to low settlements or denied claims.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these eight mistakes is crucial to protecting your injury claim. If you’re considering representing yourself, I strongly recommend watching my video explaining why hiring a lawyer is your best move. For more helpful advice, subscribe to my channel. And if you’ve been injured in Kentucky, remember: Don’t Wait, Call Tate!
Disclaimer: This blog is not legal advice. Always consult a lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
