
After an accident, the steps you take can protect your health and your personal injury claim. The most common mistakes include not getting medical care right away, admitting fault at the scene, failing to collect evidence, speaking to the insurance company without legal support, and waiting too long to contact an attorney. Avoiding these errors helps preserve your rights and strengthens your ability to recover full compensation. If you have been injured, the Sullivan Law Firm is here to guide you through the process and protect your best interests.
Accidents happen quickly, but the decisions you make right after the impact can affect your recovery for months or even years. Injured victims are often overwhelmed, unsure of what to say, and uncertain about what steps will protect their rights. Unfortunately, even small mistakes can make it harder to secure the compensation you deserve.
We help accident victims across Georgia understand how to navigate these overwhelming moments. Here are the top five mistakes to avoid and what you can do to protect yourself after an accident.
Some injuries show symptoms immediately, but others take longer to reveal themselves. Adrenaline after an accident can often mask pain, and victims often try to push through their discomfort. Waiting to see a doctor can not only harm your health but also give insurance companies a reason to question the legitimacy of your injury.
Seeking prompt care creates a clear link between the accident and your injuries, which is crucial to have on paper in any personal injury case.
Many people instinctively apologize after an accident, even when they are not responsible. A simple “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault. In Georgia, fault is determined through comparative negligence, meaning your recovery may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. Any statement that resembles admitting responsibility can reduce the compensation you may otherwise be entitled to.
Let the investigation determine fault. Protecting your words can protect your case.
Evidence fades fast after an accident. Vehicles get moved, weather changes, and witnesses leave. Without documentation, it becomes much harder to prove what actually happened.
Even a few quick photos or notes can make a major difference in the outcome of your personal injury claim.
Insurance companies may seem helpful at first, but their primary goal is to pay as little as possible. Adjusters may ask leading questions, request recorded statements, or encourage quick settlements that do not reflect the true value of your injuries.
Let a personal injury attorney communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. This protects your claim from being minimized or denied.
Time is one of the most important factors in a personal injury case. Waiting too long can result in lost evidence, expired deadlines, and weakened claims. In Georgia, the statute of limitations on a personal injury claim is two years, meaning an injured party must bring their claim within two years from the date of the incident. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation entirely.
Early legal support ensures your rights are protected from the beginning.
Avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in your personal injury case. Your health, financial stability, and long term recovery deserve protection. If you have been injured in an accident, our team is here to help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact the Sullivan Law Firm today for a free consultation and let our team guide you with the care and experience you deserve.
We handle personal injury cases all across Georgia. Insurance companies know us and our track record, so most cases settle without having to go to court.