The Biggest Mistakes Accident Victims Make Before Calling a Lawyer
When you’ve just been injured—whether in a car crash, a slip-and-fall, or any other accident—your first instinct is survival. You’re focused on pain, paperwork, and getting back to normal. But in those first few hours and days, the decisions you make can shape your entire recovery—financially, medically, and legally.
Too many victims wait to call a lawyer. And in that gap, they make costly mistakes that weaken their case, reduce their compensation, or even eliminate their legal options entirely.
Here’s what you need to know before it’s too late.
Mistake #1: Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
It sounds harmless. The adjuster calls, says they just need a quick statement to “move things along.” They sound polite. Helpful. Professional.
But make no mistake: they’re building a case against you.
Insurance companies train adjusters to ask leading questions, catch inconsistencies, and lock you into statements that can be used to deny or minimize your claim. Even something as simple as saying “I’m feeling okay” can be twisted to suggest your injuries aren’t serious.
Once you’ve given a recorded statement, it’s permanent. You can’t take it back. And if you haven’t spoken to a lawyer first, you may have already undermined your case.
Mistake #2: Delaying Medical Treatment
Some victims try to tough it out. They wait days—or weeks—before seeing a doctor, hoping the pain will fade. Others worry about costs or don’t want to “make a big deal” out of the accident.
But here’s the problem: delayed treatment looks like a lack of injury.
Insurance companies will argue that if you were truly hurt, you would’ve sought care immediately. They’ll claim your injuries were minor, unrelated, or pre-existing. And without early medical records, your lawyer has less evidence to prove the impact of the accident.
Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Internal injuries, concussions, and soft tissue damage aren’t always obvious. And the sooner you document your condition, the stronger your case becomes.
Mistake #3: Accepting a Lowball Settlement
Many victims receive a settlement offer within days. It’s fast. It’s framed as generous. And it’s designed to close the case before you understand your full rights.
That check might cover your ER visit—but what about follow-up care? Lost wages? Long-term pain? Emotional trauma?
Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to future compensation. And if your condition worsens, you’re on your own.
Accident lawyers know how to calculate the full value of your claim—including future medical costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages. They negotiate from a position of strength, not desperation. And they don’t let insurers take advantage of your vulnerability.
Mistake #4: Posting on Social Media
You’re frustrated. You want to vent. Or maybe you just want to reassure friends that you’re okay. But that innocent post—“Feeling better today!” or “Back at work!”—can be used against you.
Insurance companies monitor social media. They’ll use your own words and photos to argue that you’re exaggerating, recovering quickly, or not as injured as you claim.
Even private posts aren’t truly private. If you’re pursuing a claim, stay off social media—or at least avoid discussing your health, your accident, or your recovery.
Mistake #5: Waiting Too Long to Call a Lawyer
This is the most damaging mistake of all.
Every day you wait, evidence fades. Witnesses forget. Surveillance footage gets erased. And the insurance company builds its defense while you’re still deciding what to do.
Accident attorneys don’t just file paperwork. Accident attorneys preserve evidence, coordinate medical care, and protect you from insurance tactics. The earlier they get involved, the more they can do to strengthen your case.
Moseley Collins offers free consultations to help victims understand their options before it’s too late. His team knows how to act fast, build airtight claims, and fight for full compensation.
Conclusion
Accidents are unpredictable. But your response doesn’t have to be. By avoiding these common missteps—and calling a lawyer early—you protect your health, your finances, and your future.
If you’ve been injured and you’re unsure what to do next, don’t wait. Talk to an accident lawyer like Moseley Collins who knows how to fight back—and make sure your case starts strong.
Moseley Collins Law
980 9th St 16th floor, Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 444-4444