The 7 Most Common Mistakes People Make After a Personal Injury

October 24, 2024, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Suffering a personal injury can be a traumatic and disorienting experience. In the aftermath, it's easy to make mistakes that could jeopardize your health and potential legal claim. At Deutschmann Personal Injury Law in Kitchener, we've seen many clients make these common errors. Here are the top seven mistakes to avoid after a personal injury:

1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

One of the biggest mistakes is not getting prompt medical care. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Delaying treatment can worsen your condition and make it harder to link your injuries to the accident.

What to do instead: Visit a doctor or hospital as soon as possible after an accident, even if you think your injuries are minor. Follow all treatment recommendations and keep detailed records.

2. Not Reporting the Incident

Whether it's a car accident, slip and fall, or workplace injury, failing to report the incident to the proper authorities can severely hamper your claim.

What to do instead: Report accidents to the police, your employer, or property owner as appropriate. Get a copy of any incident reports filed.

3. Admitting Fault or Apologizing

In the confusion following an accident, you may be tempted to apologize or accept blame, even if you weren't at fault. These statements can be used against you later.

What to do instead: Avoid discussing fault at the scene. Stick to exchanging contact and insurance information without commenting on who caused the accident.

4. Neglecting to Gather Evidence

The scene of an accident contains crucial evidence that can disappear quickly. Failing to document it can weaken your case.

What to do instead: If you're able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses.

5. Oversharing on Social Media

Posting about your accident or injuries on social media can seriously undermine your claim. Insurance companies often monitor claimants' social media accounts for evidence to dispute injuries.

What to do instead: Avoid posting anything about your accident or injuries online. Consider temporarily deactivating your social media accounts during your claim process.

6. Accepting an Early Settlement Offer

Insurance companies often make quick, lowball settlement offers hoping you'll accept before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and losses.

What to do instead: Consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. Ensure you understand the full extent of your injuries and long-term implications before agreeing to settle.

7. Trying to Handle the Claim Alone

Navigating a personal injury claim without legal representation can lead to mistakes and potentially lower compensation.

What to do instead: Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and work to maximize your compensation.

At Deutschmann Personal Injury Law, we've helped countless clients in Kitchener and throughout Ontario avoid these common pitfalls. Our experienced team understands the complexities of personal injury law and can provide the guidance you need to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

If you've been injured in an accident, don't make these costly mistakes. Contact Deutschmann Personal Injury Law today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.

Remember, the actions you take immediately following a personal injury can significantly impact your health and potential legal claim. By avoiding these common mistakes and seeking professional legal advice, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

It is important that you review your accident benefit file with one of our experienced personal injury / car accident lawyers to ensure that you obtain access to all your benefits which include, but are limited to, things like physiotherapy, income replacement benefits, vocational retraining and home modifications.