Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Filing a personal injury claim can be overwhelming—especially when you're recovering from physical and emotional trauma. At McNickle & Bonner, we’ve seen too many clients unintentionally weaken their cases by making avoidable mistakes early in the process. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, avoiding these missteps can make a significant difference in your compensation outcome.

Here are the top mistakes we urge every injury victim to avoid:

🚑 1. Delaying Medical Treatment

It’s common to downplay injuries or assume the pain will go away on its own. But failing to seek immediate medical attention can harm both your health and your legal claim. Insurance companies often argue that a delay means your injuries weren’t serious—or weren’t related to the incident.

Tip: Even if your symptoms seem mild, get evaluated right away and follow your doctor’s advice closely.

📞 2. Talking to the Insurance Adjuster Without Legal Counsel

Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to protect the company’s bottom line, not your best interests. Anything you say—such as a casual “I’m feeling okay”—can be used to minimize your claim.

Tip: Before speaking with an adjuster, contact a personal injury attorney. At McNickle & Bonner, we handle communications so you don’t say something that could hurt your case.

📱 3. Posting About Your Accident on Social Media

In today’s world, sharing updates on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok is second nature—but it can backfire in a personal injury case. Insurers and defense lawyers may monitor your posts and twist your words or photos to suggest you’re not as injured as you claim.

Tip: Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or daily activities until your case is resolved. Privacy settings won’t stop opposing counsel from accessing your content through discovery.

🗂️ 4. Not Keeping Documentation

Strong claims are built on strong evidence. If you don’t keep records—such as medical bills, lost wages, or a daily pain journal—you may struggle to prove the full extent of your damages.

Tip: Save everything related to your injury, including prescriptions, therapy notes, and photos of injuries or property damage. We’ll help you organize and present it effectively.

🕒 5. Waiting Too Long to Contact a Lawyer

Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, but waiting can still put your case at risk. Over time, evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and it becomes harder to build a strong case.

Tip: Call an attorney as soon as possible after your injury. The earlier we get involved, the better your chances of a fair settlement.

✅ Protect Your Rights—Start Smart

A personal injury claim isn’t just paperwork—it’s your shot at recovering compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain, and suffering. One small mistake could cost you dearly. That’s why McNickle & Bonner is here to guide youevery step of the way.

We work on a contingency basis—you don’t pay us unless we win for you.

Have questions or think you may have a case?Contact McNickle & Bonner today for a free consultation, and let our experienced legal team protect what matters most: your health, your rights, and your future.