Car Accident Myths That Could Cost You Your Case

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough—but what’s even worse is the misinformation that can hurt your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. From insurance companies downplaying injuries to misleading advice from friends, believing the wrong things after a crash can cost you thousands of dollars—or even your entire case.

At Awad & Baker, we’ve seen people make avoidable mistakes based on myths they assumed were true. Let’s break down some of the most common car accident myths and what you need to do to protect yourself.

Myth #1: If You Feel Fine, You Don’t Need to See a Doctor

One of the biggest mistakes people make after a car accident is assuming they’re "okay" just because they don’t feel immediate pain. The truth? Some injuries take hours, days, or even weeks to show symptoms.

🚨 Hidden injuries include:

• Whiplash (can take days to fully set in)

• Internal bleeding (which may not be obvious at first)

• Concussions (you don’t have to lose consciousness to have one)

• The reality: Always get checked by a doctor after an accident, even if you feel fine. Medical records prove your injuries and help strengthen your case if symptoms appear later.

Myth #2: The Insurance Company Will Give You a Fair Settlement

If you believe insurance companies are on your side, think again. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Even when they act helpful, they are looking for ways to minimize your claim.

🚨 Common tactics they use:

• Denying or delaying your claim to wear you down.

• Offering a quick, lowball settlement before you realize the full cost of your injuries.

• Use your own words against you (especially if you give a recorded statement).

• The reality: Never accept an insurance offer without consulting a lawyer. They almost always start with a low offer, hoping you’ll take it before realizing the full impact of your injuries.

Myth #3: If You Were Partially at Fault, You Can’t Get Compensation

Some people assume that if they were partially at fault for the accident, they can’t recover anything. That’s not necessarily true.

🚨 Most states follow comparative fault laws, meaning you can still get compensation even if you were partially responsible. Your final settlement just might be reduced by your percentage of fault.

The reality: Never admit fault at the scene. Let your attorney investigate the case—sometimes, what seems like your fault may be caused by another driver’s negligence.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident to Protect Your Rights

Now that we’ve cleared up some common myths, here’s what you should do after a crash to protect yourself legally and financially:

✅ Step 1: Call 911 & Get Medical Attention

A police report documents the accident, which is crucial for your case.

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor to rule out hidden injuries.

✅ Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene

Take photos and videos of the cars, road conditions, and any visible injuries.

Get contact information from witnesses—their statements can be game-changers if the other driver disputes what happened.

✅ Step 3: Don’t Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance

Anything you say can hurt your case.

Instead, direct them to your lawyer.

✅ Step 4: Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company so you don’t get shortchanged.

They ensure you get maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain & suffering.

Don’t Let These Myths Cost You Your Case

If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t fall for the common myths that could hurt your claim. Insurance companies aren’t looking out for you—but we are.

👉 Call Awad & Baker today for a FREE consultation. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing. Justice is just one call away.