Personal Injury
Apr 1, 2025
What NOT to Do When You’re Injured: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Danielle Kushel
Attorney
Experiencing an injury can be overwhelming, and navigating the legal aspects that follow requires careful consideration and informed decisions. In this blog post, we highlight crucial “what not to do” guidelines for individuals who have been injured, helping them avoid common mistakes that could potentially impact their personal injury case negatively.
Don’t Delay Medical Attention
One of the most critical mistakes to avoid after an injury is delaying or neglecting medical attention. Seeking prompt medical care not only ensures your well-being but also establishes a documented record of your injuries and their severity. Delaying medical treatment can raise questions about the seriousness of your injuries and may weaken your case.
Don’t Admit Fault or Discuss Details
Avoid admitting fault or discussing intricate details of the accident with others, especially insurance adjusters or representatives of the opposing party. Admissions of fault or contradictory statements can be used against you in legal proceedings and may jeopardize your ability to recover full compensation.
Don’t Post on Social Media
Refrain from posting about your injury, accident, or legal proceedings on social media platforms. Content shared on social media can be misconstrued, taken out of context, or used to discredit your claims. It’s crucial to maintain privacy and discretion regarding your case and avoid sharing sensitive information online.
Don’t Accept Early Settlement Offers without Legal Counsel
Avoid accepting early settlement offers from insurance companies or the opposing party without consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney. Early settlement offers are often lower than the actual value of your damages, and accepting them without legal guidance may result in insufficient compensation for your losses.
Don’t Miss Deadlines or Ignore Legal Notices
Be mindful of legal deadlines, such as the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. Missing deadlines or ignoring legal notices can significantly impact your ability to pursue compensation. Stay informed about important timelines and requirements related to your case, and seek legal assistance promptly.
Don’t Overlook Documenting Evidence
Collect and preserve evidence related to your injury and the circumstances of the accident. This includes medical records, accident reports, photographs, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation. Thorough documentation strengthens your case and provides valuable evidence to support your claims.