Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

1. Not Seeking Medical Attention Promptly 

• Mistake: Delaying or skipping medical treatment after an accident can jeopardize your claim. Insurers can argue that your injuries must not be serious, or that the injuries weren't caused by the accident. 

• How to Avoid: Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injuries seem minor. Keep records of doctor visits, any diagnoses, and treatments. They will prove to be an asset for your case. 

2. Failing to Document the Accident 

• Mistake: Failing to gather evidence like pictures from the collision scene, witness statements, or police reports can put you in a more challenging position to prove liability. 

• How to Avoid: Take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Get contact info from witnesses and ask for a copy of the police report. Our team at Flahavan Law Offices would be happy to assist you in gathering evidence to support your claim. 

3. Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice 

• Mistake: Talking to insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney can lead to statements that harm your case. Adjusters may use your words to minimize or deny your claim. 

• How to Avoid: Politely decline to discuss details with adjusters until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. Let Flahavan Law Offices handle negotiations to ensure your rights are protected. 

4. Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer 

• Mistake: Accepting an early settlement from an insurance company often means settling for less than you deserve, especially before the full extent of your injuries is known. 

• How to Avoid: Consult with our attorneys before accepting any offer. We’ll evaluate your case to ensure the settlement covers all medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

5. Not Hiring an Experienced Attorney 

• Mistake: Navigating a claim alone may lead to missed deadlines, submitting the wrong paperwork, or not valuing your claim correctly. 

• How to Avoid: Reach out to Flahavan Law Offices and let us help you navigate the legal process. With over 20 years of experience, we will give you the best representation possible, complete the necessary paperwork, and fight to maximize your compensation. 

6. Posting About Your Accident on Social Media 

• Mistake: Including details or pictures related to your accident or injuries on social media can be used by insurance companies to dispute the severity of your claim. 

• How to Avoid: Avoid posting about your accident or injuries online. Discuss your case only with your attorney to maintain its integrity.

7. Missing the Statute of Limitations 

• Mistake: In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can bar you from seeking compensation. 

• How to Avoid: Contact Flahavan Law Offices as soon as possible for a free consultation to ensure your claim is filed on time. 

Why Choose Flahavan Law Offices? 

Flahavan Law Offices has focused on being an advocate for all injury victims since 2002 throughout Santa Rosa and Sonoma County. With founding attorney, Brian Flahavan, as part of the California State Bar, we can provide caring individual support for all injury cases, including: 

• Car Accidents: From collisions on Highway 101 to local crashes in Santa Rosa. 
• Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents: Protecting riders injured by negligent drivers. 
• Slip-and-Fall Injuries: Holding property owners accountable for unsafe conditions. 
• Medical Malpractice: Seeking justice for injuries caused by healthcare negligence. 
• Workplace Injuries: Advocating for workers harmed on the job. 

As active members of the Sonoma County community, we take pride in serving our neighbors and fighting for justice locally. 

Contact Our Santa Rosa Personal Injury Attorneys Today 

Avoid the pitfalls of careless mistakes that can ruin your personal injury claim. Call Flahavan Law Offices at (707) 525-2917 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, Lake County, and Mendocino County. Remember, if we don't win your case, you don't owe us anything. That's our no recovery, no fee policy! Let our knowledgeable Santa Rosa personal injury attorneys help you avoid errors and recover the full compensation you deserve. Call us today!