By Karla Lopez-Fernandez – Miami Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury accident—whether a car crash, slip & fall, or workplace injury—can be overwhelming. However, what you do immediately after the accident can impact your ability to recover compensation.

At Karla Lopez-Fernandez Law, we’ve seen many victims make costly mistakes that reduce their settlement or even cause them to lose their case. This guide explains 10 common mistakes to avoid after an accident and how to protect your rights.

Not Calling the Police 🚔

Even if the accident seems minor, ALWAYS call the police.

🚨 Why a Police Report is Important:
✅ Provides official documentation of the accident.
✅ Records important details & statements from witnesses.
✅ Helps prove fault in your personal injury claim.

📌 Without a police report, it’s harder to prove your case to insurance companies.

Delaying Medical Treatment 🏥

Many injuries don’t appear immediately due to shock and adrenaline. However, waiting too long to see a doctor can hurt your claim.

🚨 Why You Should Seek Medical Attention ASAP:
✅ Some injuries (like concussions & whiplash) worsen over time.
✅ Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires treatment within 14 days to qualify for benefits.
✅ Insurance companies may argue your injuries aren’t serious if you delay treatment.

📌 Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation to protect your health & case.

Admitting Fault at the Scene ❌

After an accident, be careful what you say.

🚨 Avoid saying:
❌ “I’m sorry.”
❌ “I didn’t see you.”
❌ “It was my fault.”

✅ Instead, stick to the facts and let the police determine liability.

📌 Even if you think you were partially at fault, evidence may prove otherwise. Let an attorney handle the legal aspects.

Not Collecting Evidence at the Scene 📸

Evidence can disappear quickly—take photos & videos right away.

✅ What to Document:

• Vehicle damage & injuries (if applicable).
• Road conditions, traffic signals, and weather.
• Witness contact information.

📌 The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case.

Not Following Doctor’s Orders 🩺

Insurance companies closely examine whether you follow medical advice.

🚨 Ignoring treatment can:
❌ Make your injuries worse.
❌ Reduce your compensation.
❌ Give insurers a reason to deny your claim.

📌 Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Posting About Your Accident on Social Media 📵

Insurance companies monitor social media looking for reasons to deny claims.

🚨 What NOT to Post Online:
❌ Pictures of yourself engaging in physical activities.
❌ Updates about your injuries.
❌ Statements about the accident.

✅ Set your accounts to private and avoid discussing your case online.

📌 One post can ruin your personal injury claim—stay off social media!

Accepting the First Insurance Offer Too Quickly 💰

Insurance companies offer low settlements hoping you’ll accept before realizing your full damages.

🚨 Why You Shouldn’t Accept Right Away:
❌ The first offer won’t cover future medical expenses.
❌ It may ignore pain & suffering compensation.
❌ Once you accept, you can’t ask for more money later.

📌Consult a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement.

Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company 🎙️

Insurance adjusters use your words against you to reduce your claim.

🚨 Before talking to an insurance company:
✅ Speak with an attorney first.
✅ Only provide basic facts (not opinions or assumptions).
✅ Do NOT agree to a recorded statement without legal guidance.

📌 Let your attorney handle insurance negotiations to maximize your settlement.

Not Keeping Track of Your Expenses & Losses 📝

A strong personal injury claim requires documentation of financial losses.

✅ Keep records of:

• Medical bills & prescriptions.
• Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses.
• Missed workdays & lost wages.

📌 A well-documented case results in a higher settlement.

Not Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer ⚖️

Trying to handle a claim alone can lead to a much lower settlement than you deserve.

🚨 Why You Need an Attorney:
✅ Lawyers negotiate aggressively with insurance companies.
✅ They calculate the full value of your claim, including future expenses.
✅ They fight for maximum compensation in court if necessary.

📌 Insurance companies have legal teams—you should too!

Why Choose Karla Lopez-Fernandez for Your Personal Injury Case?

At Karla Lopez-Fernandez Law, we provide:
✅ Aggressive legal representation against insurance companies.
✅ Personalized attention—we fight for every client like family.
✅ No fees unless we win—zero upfront costs.
✅ Proven success in Miami personal injury cases.

🚨 Avoid costly mistakes—call us today for a FREE consultation!

📞 Contact us now to discuss your case.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights After an Injury

💡 Key Takeaways:

✅ Call the police & seek medical treatment immediately.
✅Do NOT admit fault, post online, or accept the first settlement offer.
✅Follow doctor’s orders & track all expenses.
✅Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies.
✅Hire a personal injury lawyer to maximize your settlement.

🚨 Need help with your case? Contact us today for a free case evaluation!

📞 Call now or visit our website to schedule a consultation.