If you’ve just been in a car accident, you’re probably overwhelmed—dealing with injuries, car repairs, time off work, and the confusing world of insurance. What you do next can have a big impact on your health, finances, and legal rights.
At Ruiz & Smart, we’ve seen too many people lose out on fair compensation simply because they didn’t know their rights. Here’s our list of the 10 most common mistakes to avoid after a crash—and what to do instead.
1. Settling Too Quickly With the Insurance Company
Insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts. If they offer you a quick settlement, it’s usually because your claim is worth more than what they’re offering.
Don’t sign anything or accept money without understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages. Once you settle, you typically waive your right to get more later — even if you discover additional medical issues.
2. Not Getting All the Medical Care You Need
Many people try to “tough it out” or delay treatment, hoping their pain will go away. But if you don’t get timely medical care, it can hurt both your recovery and your legal case. Insurance companies use gaps in treatment to argue you weren’t really hurt — even if you were. Always follow through with doctor visits, physical therapy, or specialist referrals.
3. Not Talking to an Attorney Early On
People often wait too long to get legal help — or assume they don’t need it. But personal injury laws in Washington are complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers. Consulting a lawyer early can help protect your rights, evaluate your claim’s true value, and handle communications with the insurer — so you can focus on healing.
4. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Adjuster
This applies to when the “other side’s” insurance company wants to take your recorded statement. Insurance adjusters might sound friendly, but they are trained to ask questions in a way that protects the company — not you. A recorded statement can be used against you later.
If it is the insurance company that covers you, you may have a legal duty to give the recorded statement. Call us first. You’re entitled to get legal advice. Always talk to an attorney before saying anything on the record.
5. Not Documenting Everything
Photos of the accident scene, damage to your car, visible injuries, and even screenshots of text messages or emails can be critical evidence in your case. Keep a file with medical records, bills, a pain journal, and notes about how your injuries are affecting your daily life.
6. Posting on Social Media
It’s tempting to update friends and family, but what you post online can be used against you. A picture of you smiling or out with friends — even if taken before the accident — can be twisted to suggest you’re not really hurt.
Best advice: Stay off social media or set everything to private and avoid discussing the accident online.
7. Assuming the Insurance Company Will Treat You Fairly
Oh boy, I used to think that, too. But don’t be fooled. Although Washington law requires insurers to act in good faith, they don’t always follow the rules. The Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA) exists because some insurers unreasonably deny valid claims or delay payment to save money. Having an advocate who knows these laws can level the playing field.
8. Missing Deadlines
In Washington, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years—but some deadlines are much shorter, especially if a government agency is involved. Failing to file required notices on time can bar your claim entirely. Don’t wait.
9. Underestimating Future Costs
A car accident can result in long-term medical treatment, lost earning capacity, and ongoing pain. Insurance companies won’t factor these into your settlement unless you demand it — backed by solid evidence and legal strategy.
10. Not Knowing All Available Insurance Coverages
There may be multiple policies that cover your accident — including underinsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or even umbrella policies. Many people leave money on the table simply because they didn’t know where to look. A lawyer can help identify all potential sources of compensation.
Bottom Line
You only get one shot at a fair recovery. Mistakes in the days and weeks after a crash can cost you tens of thousands of dollars or more. Before signing away your rights, get the information you need — and consider talking to a personal injury lawyer who knows how to deal with insurance companies in Washington.
At Ruiz & Smart, we’re here to help injured people get the justice they deserve. If you have questions after an accident, reach out for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win.