Accidents happen. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or some other injury caused by someone else’s negligence, filing a personal injury claim is your legal right. It’s a way to recover damages for things like medical bills, lost wages, and the pain you’ve been through. But here’s something many people don’t realize—what you don’t do during the process is just as important as what you do.
Working with a personal injury lawyer from Bentley & More LLP can make the process less confusing. These professionals help guide you through the legal maze, making sure you don’t fall into the common traps that can ruin your case. Knowing the mistakes to avoid can save you time, stress, and possibly thousands of dollars.
1. Never Delay Medical Treatment
One of the biggest mistakes you can make after an injury is waiting too long to get medical help. Even if your injury seems minor, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Why? Because insurance companies will question your claim if there’s a gap between the accident and your medical visit. They might argue that your injury wasn’t serious or that something else caused it.
Getting treatment also builds a clear record that connects your injury to the incident. And don’t skip follow-up appointments. That can also hurt your case.
2. Don’t Post About Your Injury on Social Media
This one surprises a lot of people. Social media might feel like a safe place to share your thoughts, but anything you post can be used against you. If you say you’re seriously hurt, but then post photos of yourself hiking or smiling at a party, it sends mixed signals. Even if the photos were taken before your injury, they can still be used to weaken your case.
It’s best to stay off social media—or at least avoid posting anything related to your injury—until your claim is resolved.
3. Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice
After an accident, the other party’s insurance company might contact you. They’ll seem polite and concerned, but remember—they are not on your side. Their goal is to settle your claim for as little as possible. If you give a recorded statement or accept an offer too soon, you might lose out on the full compensation you deserve.
Always talk to your personal injury lawyer before speaking with an insurance adjuster or signing anything.
4. Avoid Exaggerating Your Injuries
It might seem like exaggerating your pain or limitations will get you a bigger settlement. In reality, it can backfire badly. Insurance companies do their homework. They may hire investigators, check your medical records, or even follow you in public.
If they find out you’ve been dishonest, your entire claim can be thrown out. Be truthful. If your injuries are real and serious, the facts will speak for themselves.
5. Don’t Settle Too Quickly
It’s tempting to take the first offer, especially when you’re facing medical bills and time off work. But quick settlements often don’t cover the full cost of your injury. You might still need treatment, and you won’t know the long-term effects until more time has passed.
Let your lawyer review any offers before you agree to anything. They’ll help make sure the amount actually reflects your needs—now and in the future.
Final Thoughts
Filing a personal injury claim isn’t something most people do every day, so it’s easy to make mistakes. But avoiding these five common missteps can make a huge difference in your outcome. Be honest, stay cautious, and let your lawyer guide you through the process. You only get one chance to do it right—make it count.
