After a car accident, most people assume the hard part is over once the wreck is behind them. Unfortunately, that is never the case.
These claims have strict rules, deadlines, and insurance practices that can undermine your case if you’re not careful.
Even harmless decisions can seriously reduce the value of your claim or wipe it out. Here are 5 mistakes that can ruin your car accident claim and what you can do to avoid them.
№1. Waiting Too Long to Seek Medical Treatment
One of the fastest ways to hurt a car crash claim is by delaying medical care. Insurance companies look at how quickly you sought treatment after the crash. If there’s a long gap between the accident and your first doctor’s visit, insurers argue that your injuries were not serious or not caused by the accident at all.
From a legal standpoint, medical records are the backbone of your claim. If there is no documentation linking your injuries to the accident, then proving damages becomes harder. Even if you feel mostly fine, you want to get checked out. This protects both your health and your case.
№2. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
After a car accident, you will probably receive a call from an insurance adjuster. Sometimes, this can happen within hours after the crash. They may sound friendly and tell you they need a quick statement to get things started. In reality, recorded statements are used to limit or deny claims.
Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that encourage you to downplay your injuries or unintentionally accept partial blame. Saying something like “I didn’t see the other car” or “I’m feeling better today” can be used against you.
In South Carolina, fault matters. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault, and you could be barred if you’re more than 50% responsible. Before giving any recorded statement, you want to speak with a South Carolina car accident attorney who can protect your interests.
№3. Failing to Preserve Evidence
Strong evidence can make or break a car accident claim. Unfortunately, many people think the police report will cover everything. In turn, they do not take any additional steps to preserve the evidence. Some important evidence may include:
- Photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene
- Skid marks, debris, or road conditions
- Witness contact information
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
Without solid evidence, insurers may dispute liability or minimize the severity of the crash.
№4. Posting About the Accident on Social Media
Social media is a quiet but powerful threat to car accident claims. Yes, insurance companies review Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms for posts that can be used to challenge injury claims.
Those innocent photos or comments can be taken out of context. A picture of you smiling at a family event or a post saying “doing okay” may be used to argue that your injuries are not as serious as claimed.
These insurers look for anything that creates doubt. The safest approach is to avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery until your claim is resolved.
№5. Accepting a Quick Settlement Without Legal Advice
After an accident, financial pressure can hit fast. Those medical bills, car repairs, and missed paychecks add up quickly. Insurance companies know this. That is why they offer early settlements before the full impact of your injuries is clear.
While a quick payout may seem tempting, early settlement offers are lower than what a claim is worth. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you give up the right to seek additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen later.
Without legal guidance, it can be easy to settle for less than the law allows.
Protecting Your South Carolina Car Accident Claim
Now that you know the 5 mistakes that can ruin your car accident claim, you can take the steps to avoid them.
If you’ve been injured in a South Carolina car accident, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney is the right choice. Reach out to Truslow & Truslow PA. We can represent your interests and help you get the maximum compensation under the law. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.