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5 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Virginia Beach
Avoiding key mistakes after a car accident in Virginia Beach is crucial. Missteps like delaying medical care or posting on social media can jeopardize both your recovery and your ability to pursue fair compensation—especially when another driver’s recklessness has disrupted your life. If this has happened to you, call the knowledgeable and trusted Virginia Beach auto accident attorneys at Rutter Mills and let them work with you to get your life back on track.
Here are five common mistakes to avoid after a car accident:
#1: Failing to Get Medical Treatment
First and foremost, your health and well-being are paramount after being injured in a car accident. Failing to see a doctor right away can put your health at risk and undermine any personal injury claims you may file later.
Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical professional. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma may have delayed onset symptoms. A thorough medical evaluation will also establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
#2: Not Calling the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, always contact law enforcement. A police report serves as an official, unbiased account of what occurred and can be crucial if injuries surface later or if the other driver changes their story. The report typically includes the responding officer’s observations, the parties involved, statements from witnesses, and sometimes an initial assessment of fault. Insurance companies often rely on this documentation when determining liability, and without it, your claim may be harder to support—especially in contested cases.
#3: Talking to Insurance Company Representatives
After a car accident, you may be contacted by representatives from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, seeking information about the incident. The faster they call, the more likely it is that you need to talk to a lawyer who will look out for your interests before speaking to them.
Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in ways that can lead accident victims to make statements to minimize the severity of their injuries or suggest partial fault. Their goal is to protect the insurer’s financial interests, not yours, so it’s best to consult a car accident lawyer in Virginia Beach.
Learn more about “What Do I Do if an Insurance Adjuster Calls Me?“
#4: Posting on Social Media
While it may be tempting to stay active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, refrain from posting during a pending personal injury case. Never post about the accident. Even seemingly harmless content can be misinterpreted by insurance investigators or opposing counsel to suggest:
- You were at fault for the accident
- Your injuries are less severe than claimed
- Your activities contradict your reported limitations
A smiling photo at a birthday party, a gym check-in, or a lighthearted comment can be taken out of context and used to challenge your credibility. Opposing attorneys are adept at framing posts to support their case—don’t give them unnecessary leverage in an already challenging process.
#5: You Can’t Afford a Personal Injury Attorney
After a car accident, it may seem simpler to manage it on your own—particularly if the other driver’s insurance company appears cooperative. However, proceeding without legal representation can lead to costly missteps and compromise your ability to recover full compensation.
An experienced car accident attorney is equipped to:
- Accurately evaluate the full value of your claim, including future damages and lost wages
- Determine all liable parties and identify potential sources of compensation
- Collect and preserve evidence to establish fault and support your legal position
- Navigate procedural requirements and ensure compliance with critical deadlines
- Advocate for your best interests during settlement negotiations or, if needed, in court
Without legal help, you risk settling for far less than you deserve—or losing your chance at compensation altogether.
Make the Right Call After a Car Accident in Virginia Beach
When you are ready to discuss your car accident claim, our attorneys will be here for you. Rutter Mills is the personal injury law firm that goes beyond the ordinary. We have the expertise, resources, and renowned reputation to take on the big insurance companies and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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Workers Compensation
If you’ve been injured on the job, workers’ compensation insurance may entitle you to critical assistance like medical treatment, lost wages, and more. But insurance companies will put up an aggressive fight to resist paying you the compensation you need and deserve. Rutter Mills can help get you the money you deserve.
