Don’t Ruin Your Claim: 6 Critical Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
A car accident happens in an instant, but the decisions you make in the minutes and days following the crash can impact your life for years. Whether you are dealing with a fender-bender in St. Louis or a multi-vehicle collision in Columbia, insurance companies are looking for any reason to devalue your claim. A St. Louis car crash lawyer provides essential legal advocacy for victims navigating the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident.
To protect your rights in Missouri and Illinois, avoid these six common, but costly mistakes.
1. Failing to Call the Police
Never rely on a “handshake agreement” with the other driver. Without a formal police report, the insurance company can argue the accident never happened or that the details are disputed. A police report is a foundational piece of evidence for any St. Louis car crash lawyer to build a winning case.
2. Admitting Fault (Even by Accident)
In the stress of the moment, many people say, “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you.” In the eyes of an insurance adjuster, these are admissions of guilt. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and the other driver. Let the investigation determine fault.
3. Delaying Medical Treatment
Adrenaline can mask severe injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions. If you wait days or weeks to see a doctor, the insurance company will claim your injuries weren’t caused by the accident. Seeking immediate medical care creates a “paper trail” that links your injuries directly to the crash.
4. Giving a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance
The other driver’s insurance adjuster is not on your side. They often ask leading questions designed to trick you into damaging your own claim. You are not legally required to give them a recorded statement. Always consult with a lawyer before speaking to the “enemy” insurance company.
5. Posting Your Life on Social Media
Insurance adjusters are trained to “stalk” your social media profiles. If you claim to have a back injury but post a photo of yourself at a family BBQ or a local St. Louis sporting event, they will use it to argue you aren’t truly hurt. The best rule: Go silent on social media until your case is resolved.
6. Accepting the Very First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often swoop in with a “lowball” offer before you even know the full extent of your medical needs. Once you sign that check, you lose the right to ask for more money later. Never settle until you have a professional review your case to ensure it covers future medical bills and lost wages.
Maximizing Your Car Accident Settlement in Missouri and Illinois
Securing a fair car accident settlement requires more than just filing a claim; it demands a strategic legal approach to prove the full extent of your damages. Insurance adjusters often move quickly to offer lowball figures, hoping victims will settle before the true cost of their medical care and lost wages is realized. At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we are experienced in negotiating the maximum car accident settlement for our clients by meticulously documenting evidence and holding negligent parties accountable. Whether you are in St. Louis or Columbia, our team is dedicated to ensuring your car accident settlement reflects the justice and financial support you need to move forward.
Missouri & Illinois Accident FAQ
Q: How long do I have to file a claim in Missouri vs. Illinois?
A: Missouri generally gives you five years for personal injury claims, while Illinois is much stricter with a two-year statute of limitations for most injuries. Missing these deadlines means you lose your right to compensation forever.
Q: Can I still recover money if the accident was partially my fault?
A: Yes. Missouri follows “pure comparative fault,” while Illinois uses a “modified” version. Even if you share some blame, Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers can help you recover the percentage you are owed.
Q: What damages can I recover after a car accident in Missouri or Illinois?
A: You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future care needs. In Missouri’s pure comparative fault system, recovery scales with fault percentage; Illinois bars claims if you’re over 50% at fault. A St. Louis car crash lawyer documents everything to maximize your settlement.
Q: Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident in Columbia or St. Louis?
A: Yes, even fender-benders can lead to hidden injuries or disputes. Insurance companies lowball minor claims, but a car accident lawyer ensures fair payouts for repairs and treatment.
Q: What if the other driver is uninsured in a St. Louis crash?
A: Missouri and Illinois require minimum coverage, but uninsured motorist (UM) policies protect you. File with your insurer promptly; a car accident settlement lawyer negotiates to cover gaps, especially under MO’s 5-year limit or IL’s 2-year deadline.
Q: How long does a car accident case take in Missouri or Illinois courts?
A: Most settle in 3–12 months via negotiation. Court cases add 1–2 years due to discovery and trials. Early evidence like police reports speeds resolution, avoid delays by hiring a Columbia or St. Louis car accident lawyer immediately.
Award-Winning Personal Injury Lawyer Recognized for Excellence in Missouri
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our results speak through the voices of our clients and now, through the honors we’ve earned in the community. Tyson Mutrux was proudly awarded Best Attorney in Columbia for 2025 by Inside Columbia Magazine, a recognition that reflects not only legal skill but also the deep trust of those we serve in Missouri.
A lawyer’s reputation speaks volumes about their ability to handle cases effectively. Whether you need legal representation for a personal injury claim, car crash claim, slip and fall or any other legal matter, choosing an attorney with a proven track record is essential.
Reading online reviews, client testimonials, and industry recognitions can help you gauge a lawyer’s credibility. Tyson Mutrux has built a strong reputation in Missouri, earning a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo and recognition from Expertise as one of the Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in St. Louis (2020).
Additionally, he has been honored by The National Trial Lawyers’ “Top 40 Under 40” for his dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients. His attention to detail, strong communication skills, and history of satisfied clients are reflected in numerous positive Google reviews.
You can also connect with us directly on Google to see reviews, updates, and more:
Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers – St. Louis
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We serve clients across Missouri and Illinois, with dedicated offices in St. Louis and Columbia.
Strike Fast. Strike Often. Get the Justice You Deserve.
The aftermath of a crash is overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. When someone searches, “St. Louis car accident lawyer near me,” they need a team that believes in their story and fights for it. At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we handle the paperwork, the adjusters, and the legal hurdles so you can focus on healing.
Don’t leave your recovery to chance. Visit our website at www.tysonmutrux.com or call us today for a 100% Free Case Investigation.