Common Mistakes Clermont Car Accident Victims Make That Hurt Their Injury Claim
Car accidents happen every day in Clermont, Florida, especially along busy roads like US-27, State Road 50, Hancock Road, and Citrus Tower Boulevard. Unfortunately, many people unknowingly make mistakes after a crash that can seriously damage—or even destroy—their ability to recover fair compensation.
As a Clermont injury attorney, I regularly see valid injury claims weakened not because the injuries weren’t real, but because simple missteps gave insurance companies an excuse to minimize or deny the claim.
Below are the most common mistakes Clermont car accident victims make—and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Delaying Medical Treatment After the Accident
One of the biggest mistakes Clermont accident victims make is waiting too long to see a doctor.
Even if you walk away from a crash on SR-50 or US-27 feeling “okay,” many injuries—such as whiplash, back injuries, or concussions—don’t show symptoms right away.
Why this hurts your claim:
Insurance companies argue your injuries aren’t related to the accident
Gaps in treatment reduce the value of your case
Medical records are weaker or incomplete
Tip from a Clermont car accident attorney:
Get evaluated as soon as possible—even if it’s just precautionary. Early documentation protects both your health and your claim.
Mistake #2: Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
After a Clermont car accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. This may sound routine—but it’s rarely in your best interest.
Why this hurts your claim:
Adjusters are trained to ask questions that minimize fault
Innocent comments can be used against you later
Statements are often taken before the full extent of injuries is known
Important:
You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. A Clermont injury attorney can handle all communications for you.
Mistake #3: Accepting the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often make early, low settlement offers to Clermont accident victims—especially before all medical treatment is complete.
Why this hurts your claim:
Future medical expenses may not be covered
Once you sign a release, your case is over
Pain, suffering, and long-term effects are often undervalued
If an insurance company is rushing to settle, it’s usually because the claim is worth more than they’re offering.
Mistake #4: Posting About the Accident on Social Media
Many people don’t realize that insurance companies monitor social media. Even an innocent post can be taken out of context.
Examples that hurt Clermont injury claims:
Photos showing physical activity
Comments like “I’m feeling better”
Check-ins or vacation posts after the crash
Best practice:
Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or recovery until your claim is resolved.
Mistake #5: Not Calling a Clermont Injury Attorney Early Enough
Trying to “handle it yourself” is one of the most costly mistakes car accident victims make in Clermont.
Why waiting hurts your case:
Evidence can disappear
Witnesses become harder to locate
Insurance companies control the narrative early
A local Clermont car accident attorney understands:
Lake County courts and procedures
Common accident locations in Clermont
How insurers handle claims in this area
Early legal guidance often leads to stronger evidence, better treatment coordination, and higher settlements.
Mistake #6: Not Following Doctor’s Orders or Skipping Appointments
Missing appointments or stopping treatment early gives insurers ammunition to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
Insurance company arguments:
“If they were really hurt, they’d still be treating”
“The injuries must have healed”
“They failed to mitigate damages”
Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and keep consistent records.
How a Clermont Injury Attorney Can Help Protect Your Claim
Avoiding these mistakes can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case. A Clermont injury attorney can:
Handle insurance companies for you
Protect you from harmful statements
Ensure medical treatment is properly documented
Maximize the full value of your claim
If you were injured in a car accident in Clermont or South Lake County, getting legal advice early can protect your rights and your recovery.
Injured in a Car Accident in Clermont, FL?
If you or a loved one has been injured, you may have legal options. Speak with a trusted Clermont injury attorney to understand your rights.
*Call John Kilpatrick Law PLLC at 352-634-6923
Proudly serving Clermont and South Lake County, Florida
- Follow us on Instagram: @johnkilpatricklaw
