Common Mistakes That Lower Your Injury Settlement (and How to Avoid Them)
After a serious accident in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, North Carolina, one of the biggest challenges is making sure you receive a fair injury settlement. Unfortunately, many people unintentionally make mistakes that can reduce the amount of compensation they recover. Knowing what to do — and what not to do — can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
At The Law Office of Miguel A. Cuadra, LLC, we help clients across North Carolina navigate the personal injury process with confidence. Our firm proudly serves both English and Spanish-speaking clients in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, ensuring clear communication and trusted legal support for every individual and family we represent.
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away
One of the most common mistakes after an accident is waiting too long to see a doctor. Even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, some injuries — like concussions, soft tissue injuries, or internal trauma — may not show symptoms right away. Delaying medical treatment gives insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Always seek medical care as soon as possible after an accident in North Carolina and follow all doctor’s instructions.
2. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company Too Soon
After an accident, insurance adjusters may contact you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. While they may seem friendly, their goal is to gather information that can be used to minimize your claim. You are not required to provide a detailed statement right away. It’s best to review your case and understand your rights before speaking with the insurance company.
3. Admitting Fault — Even a Little
North Carolina follows the rule of contributory negligence, which means that if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. Saying “I’m sorry” or guessing what might have happened can seriously hurt your case. Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurers, and avoid discussing fault at all.
4. Posting About Your Accident on Social Media
It’s natural to want to share updates about your life online, but posting photos or comments about your accident can damage your personal injury claim. Insurance companies often review social media accounts looking for posts that contradict your injury claims. Even an innocent picture can be taken out of context. Keep details about your accident and recovery off social media until your case is resolved.
5. Ignoring Doctor’s Orders or Missing Appointments
Following your doctor’s treatment plan shows that you are taking your recovery seriously. Missing appointments or ignoring medical advice can lead the insurance company to argue that you’re not as injured as you claim. Keep detailed records of all treatments, medications, and doctor visits in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or anywhere you receive care.
6. Settling Too Quickly
Many injury victims accept the first settlement offer they receive, eager to move forward and cover bills. However, early offers are often much lower than what you truly deserve. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more — even if new medical issues appear later. It’s important to understand the full extent of your injuries, lost wages, and long-term needs before agreeing to any settlement.
7. Not Keeping Good Records
Documentation is key to maximizing your settlement. Keep copies of all medical bills, repair estimates, pay stubs showing lost wages, and any communication with insurance companies. Take photos of your injuries and property damage. Detailed records make your claim stronger and harder to dispute.
8. Trying to Handle a Complex Claim Alone
Personal injury law in North Carolina can be complicated, especially when dealing with issues like contributory negligence or multiple parties involved in a crash. Many people who try to handle their claims alone end up settling for far less than they deserve. Having experienced legal guidance helps protect your rights and ensures that insurance companies treat you fairly.
At The Law Office of Miguel A. Cuadra, LLC, we represent injury victims throughout Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and surrounding North Carolina communities. Our bilingual team understands how stressful the aftermath of an accident can be, especially for Spanish-speaking individuals and families. We work to make sure every client receives the attention, care, and advocacy they need to move forward after a serious injury.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, avoiding these common mistakes can make a big difference in your recovery and your future. Taking the right steps after an injury can help you secure the settlement you truly deserve.