Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, but the consequences often linger for weeks, months or even years. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost income, or emotional trauma, what you do in the moments and days following a crash can significantly impact your legal rights and financial recovery.
At the Law Offices of P. Kent Eichelzer III, we’ve worked with countless clients who, unfortunately, made avoidable mistakes after their accidents. As a trusted car accident lawyer in Georgia, we’re here to ensure you don’t make the same mistakes.
If you’ve been injured in a accident, here are the most common mistakes people make and how a seasoned personal injury attorney can help you avoid them.
Top 10 Mistakes From An Accident Lawyer
1. Not Calling the Police
One of the biggest mistakes people make after an accident is not contacting law enforcement. Even if the damage appears minor or the other driver seems cooperative, you must have an official police report. This report becomes crucial evidence in your injury claim and can help establish fault and document the incident.
An experienced accident settlement lawyer will always advise you to get a police report, no matter how small the crash may seem. Without it, you may struggle to prove liability later.
2. Admitting Fault at the Scene
In the confusion of an accident, many people unintentionally admit fault. Phrases like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be used against you in a claim. Even if you think you may be partially to blame, avoid making any statements until you’ve spoken to a personal injury lawyer.
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence law, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. Protect your rights by saying as little as possible at the scene.
3. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, aren’t always apparent immediately after an accident. Too often, people refuse medical treatment because they “feel fine,” only to develop serious symptoms days later.
If you delay seeing a doctor, insurance companies may argue your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. As an experienced injury attorney, Kent Eichelzer strongly recommends seeking medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor.
4. Not Documenting the Scene
Evidence disappears quickly after a car crash. If you’re able, take photos of everything: the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Also, collect the names and contact information of witnesses.
This documentation could make or break your case. A skilled personal injury attorney will use this evidence to build a strong claim and counter any disputes from the insurance company.
5. Talking to the Insurance Company Without An Accident Lawyer
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly and helpful, but their primary goal is to minimize your payout. Giving a recorded statement, signing documents, or accepting a settlement without consulting an accident settlement lawyer is a critical mistake.
Once you accept a settlement, you typically can’t go back and ask for more; no matter how your injuries progress. Always speak to a car accident lawyer near you before communicating with any insurance company.
6. Posting About the Accident on Social Media
It’s natural to want to update friends and family after a traumatic event. However, posting about your accident on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or other platforms can seriously hurt your case. Insurance companies often scour social media for evidence that your injuries aren’t as severe as claimed.
Even a photo of you smiling or out with friends can be used to argue that you’re not really suffering. A personal injury lawyer will always advise clients to stay off social media until the case is resolved.
7. Delaying Legal Help From An Accident Lawyer
Many accident victims wait too long to contact an injury attorney. They may believe the insurance company will do the right thing or assume they can’t afford legal help. However, time is not on your side.
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can result in lost evidence, missing witnesses, and a weaker case. Plus, the earlier you involve a personal injury attorney, the sooner you’ll have someone fighting for your rights.
8. Accepting the First Settlement Offer
After an accident, you might receive a quick settlement offer from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. While the money might be tempting, especially if you’re facing medical bills and missed work, it’s rarely enough to cover your long-term needs.
Insurance companies are counting on you not knowing the full value of your claim. An experienced accident settlement lawyer will evaluate your damages, including pain and suffering, future medical costs, and lost wages, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
9. Failing to Track Expenses and Symptoms
Recovering from a car accident can be overwhelming, but you must keep detailed records of your expenses, injuries, and how your life has changed. This includes medical bills, prescriptions, time off work, and even journal entries documenting your pain and emotional distress.
Kent Eichelzer III can use this information to support your claim and argue for the compensation you truly deserve.
10. Choosing the Wrong Accident Lawyer
Not all lawyers are created equal. When searching for a “car accident lawyer near me”, look for someone with a proven track record in personal injury law, a deep understanding of Georgia’s legal system, and a commitment to personalized service.
At the Law Offices of P. Kent Eichelzer III, we combine years of experience with a client-first approach. We don’t just process claims, we fight for justice. From negotiating with insurance companies to taking cases to court, we’re by your side every step of the way.
Why Choose P. Kent Eichelzer III?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you need more than just legal representation, you need an advocate. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a crash can take, and we’re committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
As a trusted personal injury attorney in Woodstock, Marietta, and the surrounding areas, Kent Eichelzer has built a reputation for results, compassion, and integrity. When you work with our firm, you can expect:
- Free consultations
- No fees unless we win
- Experienced negotiation and litigation skills
- Personal attention from start to finish
Need An Accident Lawyer? Call Us Today!
The aftermath of a car accident is confusing, but you don’t have to go through it alone. By avoiding these common mistakes and contacting a qualified personal injury lawyer immediately, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’re searching for an “injury attorney” or “car accident lawyer near me”, contact the Law Offices of P. Kent Eichelzer III today. Call us or fill out our online form to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us handle the legal stress, so you can focus on healing.