Top 7 Mistakes Car Accident Victims Make That Cost Them Thousands

In one moment, everything changes. You’re dazed. In pain. The flashing lights reflect off broken glass. And in the middle of the chaos, decisions you make—or don’t make—can cost you thousands.

Each year, over 2.7 million people are injured in car crashes in the U.S. (NHTSA). Yet most victims aren’t prepared for what comes next. Insurance adjusters seem helpful—but their job is to save their company money, not to help you recover.

At MVA Lawyer Network, we’ve seen too many victims lose out on life-changing compensation because of avoidable missteps. Don't let that be your story.

Here are the 7 most common (and costly) mistakes car accident victims make—and how you can avoid them.

1. Not Calling the Police

Even if the damage seems minor or the other driver apologizes, failing to file a police report is a critical error.

🚓 Why it matters: Without an official record, insurance companies can dispute the facts, and your case may weaken in court.

Always call 911 and get a police report, no matter how small the crash may seem.

2. Admitting Fault (Even Casually)

Saying "I'm sorry" at the scene feels natural—but it can be used against you later.

💬 Why it matters: Insurance adjusters may twist innocent statements into admissions of guilt, slashing your payout.

Stick to the facts and let your lawyer handle communications.

3. Delaying Medical Treatment

You may feel "okay" right after the crash—but adrenaline can mask serious injuries.

🏥 Why it matters: Delays in treatment give insurance companies an excuse to downplay or deny your injuries.

Always get checked by a doctor, and follow all medical recommendations.

4. Talking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Help

They may sound friendly, but they are trained negotiators with one goal: pay you less.

📉 Why it matters: In 9 out of 10 cases we review, the insurer’s first offer is tens of thousands below what victims deserve.

Let your attorney handle all communication. One wrong statement can shrink your settlement.

5. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Fast money is tempting—especially with bills piling up. But accepting too early can lock you into a deal that doesn’t cover long-term costs.

💸 Why it matters: The average car accident victim who hires an attorney walks away with $77,600, compared to just $17,600 without one.

Don't settle until you understand the full value of your claim.

6. Failing to Document Everything

In the chaos, many forget to gather photos, witness names, and written statements.

📷 Why it matters: Documentation can make or break your case—especially if liability is questioned.

Take photos, save receipts, and keep a record of your pain, missed work, and doctor visits.

7. Trying to Handle It Alone (Car Accident Victim Mistakes)

This is perhaps the biggest mistake. Without legal guidance, victims are often outmatched and outmaneuvered by insurers.

🛡️ Why it matters: 91% of people who work with a lawyer receive a payout—compared to just 51% without.

Our network of elite accident attorneys fight back—and win.

🔍 Quick Recap: Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not calling the police

2. Admitting fault at the scene

3. Skipping or delaying medical treatment

4. Talking to insurers without a lawyer

5. Accepting the first offer

6. Failing to document injuries and damages

7. Trying to handle it without legal help

🎯 Protect Yourself. Get What You're Owed.

At MVA Lawyer Network, we connect you with vetted, aggressive accident attorneys who work on contingency—meaning you pay nothing unless they win.

✅ Free claim review within 1 business day

✅ No upfront costs, no gimmicks

✅ Average client walks away with 3.5x more money

📞 Don’t wait. Your one shot at justice starts now. Contact us for a FREE claim review