Worried your personal injury settlement might get delayed? You’re not being paranoid — it happens more often than people think. The good news? These delays are almost always avoidable. The even better news? With the top rated personal injury lawyer by your side, you’ll know exactly how to steer clear of the mistakes that cost victims time, money, and justice.
Let’s walk you through the biggest blunders people make — and how the right legal guidance keeps your case on track.
1. Not Getting Medical Attention Immediately
Yes, even if you feel fine.
Right after an accident, the most important thing you can do is get checked out by a doctor — no matter how minor your injury seems. A small sprain today could become a chronic issue tomorrow. And from a legal standpoint, skipping medical care is a massive red flag.
Why it matters:
If you delay treatment, insurance companies will argue that your injuries weren’t serious (or didn’t exist at all). That alone can put your personal injury settlement at risk.
What to do instead:
Get medical attention immediately and follow every recommendation your doctor gives. The best personal injury lawyers in Orlando will tell you: documented care = stronger case.
2. Failing to Document the Evidence Properly
Without proof, your case won’t stand a chance, no matter how legitimate your injuries are.
Proper documentation should include:
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Medical bills and rehab receipts
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Photos or videos from the scene
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Witness testimonies
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A copy of the police report
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Communications with the other party or insurance companies
Case in point:
Michael Mitchell’s lawsuit against USAA was dismissed because of poor documentation. The lesson? Evidence wins cases. A personal injury attorney in Orlando who knows their stuff will help you gather and organize every critical piece of the puzzle.
3. Making Statements Without Legal Advice
Remember this line from every cop show ever?
“Anything you say can and will be used against you.”
It applies here too.
Making statements — to the insurance company, on social media, or even to the other party — without your lawyer present can backfire in a big way. Misunderstood words or poorly phrased answers could cost you thousands in compensation for personal injury.
Smart move:
Say nothing until your Orlando personal injury attorney is with you. Your lawyer will guide what to say, how to say it, and more importantly, what not to say.
4. Ignoring Medical Instructions
You went to the doctor — great. But did you follow through?
Skipping follow-up appointments or ignoring treatment plans tells insurers:
“This injury isn’t serious.”
And that’s exactly the kind of excuse they’re looking for to offer you a lowball personal injury settlement — or worse, deny your claim entirely.
Bottom line:
If your doctor says rest, rest. If they recommend physical therapy, go. Your recovery and your case both depend on it.
5. Accepting the First Offer from the Insurance Company
Spoiler alert: The first offer is almost never the best.
Insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts — that’s their job. And many victims, eager to move on, accept far less than they deserve.
But once you say yes? There’s no going back.
The top rated personal injury lawyer will evaluate the real value of your case and handle tough negotiations on your behalf. Don’t settle for scraps when you could be compensated for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Future treatment
6. Posting About Your Case on Social Media
You might want to share your story or post an update on your recovery, but resist the urge.
Why? Because insurance companies monitor social media, and anything you post can be twisted against you.
For example:
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A smiling photo? “They don’t look injured.”
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A gym check-in? “They’re clearly able to move fine.”
Social media can sink your case. Period.
Your safest bet:
Keep the details offline and let your personal injury attorneys in Orlando handle your communication — both in and out of court.
Final Thoughts: Trust a Lawyer Who Knows the System (And How to Beat It)
Avoiding these mistakes isn’t just smart — it’s essential. One wrong move could delay or destroy the compensation you’re legally entitled to. That’s why working with an Orlando personal injury lawyer from the start makes all the difference.
At Louis Berk Law, our team of personal injury attorneys in Orlando has helped countless clients avoid costly missteps and maximize their claims. We don’t let insurance companies bully or delay. We fight back — and we win.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward the justice and compensation you deserve.