In the days and weeks after a motor vehicle accident, most people are focused on putting one foot in front of the other. Between medical appointments, insurance paperwork, missed time from work, and the stress of the recovery process, it’s easy to make decisions that can unintentionally hurt both your health/wellbeing and your legal claim.
Here are some of the most common missteps we see after an accident:
- Waiting Too Long to Get Medical Attention
People are often running on adrenaline in the aftermath of an accident, and without visible injuries they think they’re “fine”. However, many injuries don’t immediate present. Delaying medical treatment can make recovery more difficult and may create questions later about whether the injuries were related to the accident. Even if you think your injuries are “minor,” you should be assessed and to follow up if symptoms continue.
It’s important to note that regardless of whether you caused the accident, there should be funding through Section B of your automobile policy to help facilitate treatment needs.
- Underestimating the Impact of the Accident
Many people minimize their symptoms, especially early on. They may tell others they are “fine” while quietly struggling with pain, fatigue, anxiety, sleep disruption, or cognitive issues. It’s important to accurately communicate symptoms to healthcare providers and document how injuries are affecting your daily activities.
- ‘Pushing Through’ the Pain
People often try to return to work, caregiving, exercise, or normal routines too quickly. While understandable, this can sometimes worsen injuries or prolong recovery. Recovery is not always linear. Listening to medical advice and giving your body time to heal matters.
- Failing to Follow Treatment Recommendations
Missing medical appointments, stopping treatment early, or not following medical recommendations can negatively impact your recovery, credibility, and the value of your claim. Insurance companies will review the treatment records for compliance.
- Giving Recorded Statements Without Advice
Insurance adjusters may request statements shortly after the accident. While some communication may be necessary, it’s important to understand what is being asked and why. People are usually still shaken, medicated, or unclear about their symptoms following an accident.
- Waiting Too Long to Get Legal Advice
Speaking with a personal injury lawyer early does not mean you are starting a lawsuit or your claim is heading to trial. Early legal guidance simply helps people understand their rights, benefits, timelines, and obligations so they can focus on recovery while feeling impowered through understanding the process.
The reality is that small mistakes made early can become much harder to fix later. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, the personal injury team at MDW is here to help guide you through the process and answer your questions during our complimentary consultation.