7 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Insurance After a St. Louis Car Accident

author by Christopher Hoffmann on Jan. 06, 2025

Accident & Injury Accident & Injury  Car Accident Accident & Injury  Personal Injury 

Summary: Learn the 7 costly mistakes to avoid when dealing with insurance companies after a St. Louis car accident. Get tips on protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation with free legal guidance.

After a car accident in St. Louis, dealing with insurance companies can be a minefield of potential mistakes that could seriously impact your compensation. Whether you've been involved in a collision on I-70, a crash in downtown St. Louis, or an accident in St. Louis County, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys regularly see these critical errors cost accident victims thousands of dollars in compensation.

 

1. Talking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation

The biggest mistake many accident victims make is speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney. Insurance companies may seem helpful, but their primary goal is to minimize payouts. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys offer free consultations, making it risk-free to get professional advice before making any statements that could harm your claim.

 

2. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers, hoping you'll accept them before understanding the full extent of your injuries. These initial offers are almost always lower than what your claim is actually worth. In cases involving serious injuries, accepting an early offer could leave you without coverage for future medical expenses.

Common Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Minimize Early Settlements:

  • Downplaying the severity of your injuries
  • Rushing you to accept before you've completed medical treatment
  • Suggesting that their offer is "time-sensitive"
  • Claiming that this is their "best offer"
  • Discouraging you from consulting with an attorney

 

3. Giving Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters often request recorded statements, claiming they're routine. However, these recordings can be used to damage your claim. Even innocent comments about how you're feeling or what happened can be taken out of context. Always decline to give recorded statements until you've consulted with an attorney.

 

4. Not Understanding Your Coverage Options

Many accident victims don't realize they may have multiple sources of coverage available. Beyond the at-fault driver's insurance, you might have access to:

  • Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Medical payments coverage from your policy
  • Coverage from your health insurance
  • Coverage from other involved vehicles
  • Employer coverage if the accident was work-related

 

5. Failing to Document Everything

Proper documentation is crucial for maximizing your claim. Keep detailed records of:

  • All medical appointments and treatments
  • Time missed from work
  • Pain levels and daily impact of injuries
  • All communications with insurance companies
  • Photos of injuries and vehicle damage

 

6. Waiting Too Long to Take Action

While Missouri's statute of limitations gives you five years to file a lawsuit, waiting too long can seriously harm your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses' memories fade, and insurance companies become more skeptical of claims that weren't promptly reported. In cases involving hit-and-run accidents, immediate action is especially crucial.

 

7. Handling Complex Claims Without Legal Help

Some accident victims try to handle complex claims on their own to avoid legal fees. However, this often results in significantly lower settlements. Professional legal representation typically leads to higher compensation, even after attorney fees. This is especially true in cases involving:

  • Serious injuries requiring ongoing treatment
  • Multiple vehicles or liable parties
  • Commercial vehicles
  • Disputed liability
  • Uninsured or underinsured drivers

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact an attorney after an accident?

Contact an attorney as soon as possible after seeking medical attention. Our St. Louis accident attorneys offer free consultations and can take immediate steps to protect your rights and preserve evidence.

 

Can I still get compensation if I've already spoken to the insurance company?

Yes. While it's best to consult an attorney first, you can still seek legal representation even if you've already communicated with insurance companies. Your attorney can help correct any potential issues and take over all future communications.

 

What if I can't afford an attorney?

Our car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. There are no upfront costs, and consultations are free.

 

What if the insurance company is pressuring me to make a quick decision?

This pressure is often a sign that you should seek legal counsel. Insurance companies use urgency tactics to prevent you from getting legal advice or understanding the full value of your claim.

 

Getting Professional Help

Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you after a car accident. Our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys can protect your rights and help you avoid these costly mistakes. We offer free consultations and never charge a fee unless we win your case. Contact us today to discuss your accident claim.

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