Nine Wrong Moves That Can Undermine Your California Car-Crash Claim
The following article is provided by Solum Space Law, APC for general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every collision is unique—if you have questions about protecting your rights after a crash in Southern California, call our office for a free consultation.
Insurance carriers are trained to protect their bottom line—not yours. The moment a crash occurs, adjusters begin looking for reasons to pay as little as possible. Avoiding the missteps below and contacting a Car Accident Attorney will keep your case on track and your leverage intact.
Common Missteps to Avoid
1. Stretching—or Hiding—the Truth
Photos, witness testimony, data downloads, and police diagrams can show exactly who violated a traffic law or acted negligently. Adjusters cross-check medical charts, social media, and prior claims. One inconsistency can torpedo credibility and slash your recovery. Stick to the facts, even when the details feel embarrassing or incomplete.
2. Talking About the Case (to Anyone but Your Lawyer)
The at-fault driver, their insurer, or even a friendly “investigator” may reach out. Refer all calls and e-mails to counsel. Off-the-cuff remarks can be twisted into admissions of fault.
3. Posting on Social Media
Private settings are no protection—defense attorneys routinely subpoena account data. A single “Feeling great today!” post can be used to argue you were never badly hurt. Go silent online until the case is resolved.
4. Signing Paperwork You Don’t Understand
Release forms, medical-record authorizations, or property-damage settlements can include hidden language giving up future injury claims. Have an attorney review every document before you put pen to paper.
5. Skipping Medical Appointments
Gaps in treatment suggest that you’re either fully healed or not taking recovery seriously. Follow all doctor recommendations, keep every appointment, and save receipts for medications, devices, and mileage.
6. Throwing Away Evidence
Prescription bottles, braces, damaged clothing, or a cracked helmet are powerful exhibits. Box them up. They illustrate pain, expense, and the violence of the impact far better than words.
7. Failing to Photograph Everything
Document visible injuries, surgical scars, vehicle damage, and the crash scene itself. Timestamped photos and short video clips help jurors see what happened and how life has changed.
8. Attending the Insurer’s “Independent” Medical Exam Alone
The doctor is hired—and paid—by the insurance carrier. One careless statement can end up in a report saying you’re exaggerating. Notify your lawyer immediately when an IME is scheduled; we will prepare you and, when appropriate, arrange for a nurse observer.
9. Going Radio-Silent with Your Attorney
Updates on new symptoms, job impacts, or bills let counsel adjust strategy and valuation. When in doubt, call or e-mail. A five-minute chat can prevent a costly mistake.
Why DIY Negotiation Rarely Works
California’s comparative-fault rules, medical-billing quirks, and ever-shifting case law create traps for the unrepresented. Insurers know most people lack the time, statutes, and expert contacts needed to push back. An experienced trial lawyer cuts through delay tactics, quantifies long-term losses, and—when necessary—files suit to compel fair payment.
Ready to Level the Field?
Solum Space Law has recovered substantial compensation for crash victims across the state. Let us do the heavy lifting while you focus on healing.
Injured in Los Angeles? Protect Your Claim Today.
Call (310) 405-0014 or complete our online form for a free, no-pressure case evaluation. Solum Space Law fights to turn the chaos of a collision into a well-documented claim for the recovery you deserve.
This blog is attorney advertising. The material below is presented by Solum Space Law, APC for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for tailored legal advice. Damages are fact-specific; if you have questions about the value of your claim, contact us for a complimentary consultation.
