The steps you take after an accident can greatly affect the result of your case. Making bad decisions could reduce your compensation or, worse yet, completely eliminate it.

You must avoid some actions that could compromise your case. After an accident, here are the things a personal injury lawyer wouldn’t want you to do.

Don’t Wait Long to Contact an Attorney

Waiting too long to contact an attorney is among the most common mistakes people make. Contact an attorney for personal injury claims as soon as possible after the accident. You should do this even if you're not sure about submitting a claim at the moment.

Gathering important evidence that might support your argument is more difficult the longer you wait. Witnesses may overlook specifics; tangible evidence might fade or lose reliability with time.

Don’t Apologize or Admit Fault

In the heat of the moment after an accident, it's easy to say something like "I'm sorry" or admit fault, even if it's unclear who is at fault. Admitting fault, though, might seriously compromise your claim.

Insurance companies or defense lawyers can use your comment against you to either minimize or refuse compensation. It's preferable to keep your statements limited to simple information. Let the investigation decide who was at fault.

Don’t Delay Medical Treatment

Not getting the right medical attention is another critical error.

Some injuries, such as soft tissue injuries or internal damage, may not show up days or weeks later, even if you feel good after the accident.

Delaying medical treatment not only compromises your health but also provides the insurance company with the justification to contend that your injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident. See a doctor immediately after an accident to protect your claim as well as your health.

Never Sign Any Settlement Offer Without Legal Counsel

Many times, insurance companies pressure accident victims into accepting a quick settlement. Although accepting the money given would seem to be the simplest way forward, settling too soon isn’t recommended.

The degree of your injuries or prospective medical costs might not yet be fully understood. Before signing anything, always see a lawyer; they will assist you in obtaining the compensation you are due.

Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer

Talking with the insurance company after an accident seems harmless, but it isn’t. Insurance adjusters are skilled at convincing you to make statements that can negatively affect your case.

They might record your statements and turn them against you to reduce the settlement value. Before you talk to the insurance company, get a lawyer who can advise you and manage communications on your behalf.

Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media

While updating your friends and relatives on social media is appealing, personal injury lawyers advise against doing so. Whether it's regarding your injuries or unrelated activities, whatever you post could be used by the other side to undermine your claim.

For example, you may imply your injuries are less severe than you claim by posting images of yourself participating in physical activities after the accident. Do not post anything linked to the accident or your condition to avoid damaging your case.