Experiencing an injury due to an accident can be overwhelming and stressful. In the aftermath, many victims unintentionally make mistakes that can hinder their ability to recover fair compensation. Being aware of these common pitfalls—and knowing how to avoid them—can make a significant difference in the outcome of your personal injury claim. Here are five mistakes injury victims often make—and how you can steer clear of them.
- Delaying Medical Attention
After an accident, your health should always come first. One of the most frequent mistakes victims make is not seeking immediate medical care. Injuries might seem minor at first, but some, like 
concussions or internal injuries, can be hidden and worsen over time.
Why it matters: Prompt medical documentation links your injuries directly to the incident, strengthening your claim. Insurance companies look for timely medical records to verify your injuries and their severity.
How to avoid: Get evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible after the accident, even if you don’t feel injured. Keep all medical records, bills, and reports—these will be critical if you pursue a claim.
- Not Collecting Evidence
In the chaos following an accident, victims often forget to gather essential evidence that can prove liability and damages.
Why it matters: Photos of the accident scene, injuries, and property damage, witness contacts, and police reports build a compelling case and establish facts.
How to avoid: Immediately document the scene with photos and videos, note down witness contact information, and file a police report. The more evidence you collect early on, the stronger your case will be.
- Speaking Freely to Insurance Companies
After an incident, insurance adjusters may contact you to discuss the accident. While it might seem like a simple conversation, sharing too much information can inadvertently harm your case.
Why it matters: Insurance companies look for reasons to devalue or deny claims. Statements made without legal advice can be used against you.
How to avoid: Be cautious about what you share. It’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer before speaking with insurers or providing recorded statements.
- Undervaluing Their Claim
Victims sometimes don’t realize the full extent of their damages and settle too early or for less than they deserve.
Why it matters: There could be ongoing medical treatment, lost wages, or future rehabilitation costs that are overlooked.
How to avoid: Get a comprehensive evaluation of your damages from a qualified attorney. They can help calculate the full scope of your claim, ensuring you seek compensation for all losses.
- Failing to Hire a Qualified Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating a personal injury claim can be complicated, and many victims attempt to handle it themselves or delay hiring legal help.
Why it matters: Without a skilled lawyer, you risk undervaluing your claim, missing deadlines, or making procedural mistakes that could harm your case.
How to avoid: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney early in the process. A professional can guide you through every step, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Making these common mistakes can significantly impact your ability to recover fair compensation after an injury. By seeking prompt medical care, gathering vital evidence, speaking cautiously to insurance companies, understanding your claim’s full value, and hiring a knowledgeable lawyer, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
If you’ve been injured and want to ensure your rights are protected, VanDerGinst Law is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team guide you through your personal injury claim.