When you’re injured in an accident, the legal process can seem overwhelming. Most people know they can file a claim, but they don’t always know the ins and outs that can make or break their case. Here are some lesser-known but highly valuable insights from experienced Michigan Injury Attorneys that can help you maximize your claim and protect your rights.
It may seem harmless to post about your accident, but insurance companies love social media—they actively monitor posts to find anything that could discredit your claim. Even a simple picture of you smiling at a family event could be twisted to argue that you’re not as injured as you claim.
What to do:
• Avoid posting about your injury, accident, or recovery.
• Ask friends and family not to tag you in posts.
• Set your profiles to private, but remember that nothing online is truly hidden.
When an adjuster calls you and acts friendly, they’re not doing it because they care about you. Their job is to minimize payouts for the insurance company, and they have well-rehearsed tactics to get you to say something that could be used against you.
Common traps they set:
• Asking “How are you?”—If you say “I’m fine,” they might argue you’re not really hurt.
• Getting you to downplay your pain—They may ask leading questions like, “So your injuries aren’t that bad?”
• Requesting a recorded statement—They’ll use this against you later.
What to do:
• Never give a recorded statement without an attorney.
• Keep responses short and factual.
• Direct them to your lawyer.
Most people assume only their accident-related medical records are important, but insurance companies will dig deeper. If they can find a prior injury or condition—even if it wasn’t bothering you before the accident—they may argue your new injuries aren’t from the crash.
What to do:
• Disclose previous injuries honestly, but let your attorney handle how they’re presented.
• Get consistent treatment—gaps in care can be used against you.
• Keep a pain journal to track symptoms, doctor visits, and daily struggles.
When people hear “pain and suffering,” they often think of physical pain. But in Michigan, non-economic damages can also cover:
✅ Emotional distress (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
✅ Loss of enjoyment of life (if you can’t do hobbies or activities you once loved)
✅ Strained relationships (if your injury affects your marriage or family life)
These factors can significantly increase your claim’s value—if documented correctly.
What to do:
• Have a mental health professional document your distress if needed.
• Keep notes on how your injury affects your daily life.
• Get witness statements from family or friends who’ve seen the impact.
Insurance companies expect you to negotiate, so their first offer is rarely fair. Many people take it because they’re worried about bills piling up, but accepting a quick settlement can mean leaving thousands (or more) on the table—and once you sign, you cannot ask for more later.
What to do:
• Never accept the first offer without speaking to an attorney.
• Let your lawyer handle negotiations—most settlements go much higher with legal representation.
• Be patient—good settlements take time.
In Michigan, you typically have three years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit (some exceptions apply). However, waiting too long can weaken your case because:
• Evidence disappears (witnesses forget, security footage gets erased).
• Insurance companies stall in hopes you’ll miss deadlines.
• Your injury may be harder to prove if you wait too long to seek treatment.
What to do:
• Contact an attorney ASAP to start building your case.
• Don’t delay medical treatment—it’s one of the first things insurance companies look at.
• Keep detailed records of everything related to your injury.
Most people don’t know these insider tips until after they’ve made a mistake that costs them thousands in their claim. If you or a loved one has been injured, knowing these key points can make all the difference in getting the settlement you truly deserve.
If you’re dealing with a personal injury case in Michigan, consult an experienced attorney before speaking with insurance companies or signing anything. A good lawyer ensures your rights are protected and fights to maximize your compensation.
Need legal guidance? Contact Michigan Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation.
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