Disclaimer
Information provided for educational purposes only. Consult with an attorney for specific legal advice.
Navigating the aftermath of a crash is tricky. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and simple errors can cost you. Here are the most common mistakes Oregonians make.
1. Admitting Fault at the Scene
The Mistake: Saying "I'm sorry," "I didn't see you," or "It was my fault."
Why it hurts: Police and insurance companies use these statements to determine liability. Even if you think you are at fault, you might not know all the factors (e.g., the other driver was speeding or ran a red light).
What to do: Ask if everyone is okay. Exchange info. Stick to the facts.
2. Waiting Too Long to See a Doctor
The Mistake: Waiting 2 weeks to see if the pain "just goes away."
Why it hurts: Insurance companies will argue your injuries aren't serious or weren't caused by the crash. Many injuries — including whiplash, disc herniations, and concussions — have delayed symptoms that don't peak until 24–72 hours after the crash, so feeling fine at the scene is not a reliable indicator.
What to do: See a provider within 72 hours, even if you feel okay. If new symptoms appear days later, seek care immediately and document when they started. Learn more: Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident.
3. Giving a Recorded Statement Too Soon
The Mistake: Giving a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company immediately.
Why it hurts: They may ask leading questions to trap you. You are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other party's insurer without legal counsel.
What to do: Talk to your own agent. Consider consulting an attorney before speaking to the other side.
4. Signing a Quick Settlement Release
The Mistake: Accepting a check for $500 or $1,000 "for your inconvenience" right away.
Why it hurts: These checks often come with a release form. If you sign it, you cannot ask for more money later, even if you discover you need surgery next month.
What to do: Do not sign any release of liability until you have completed your medical treatment and know the full extent of your damages.
5. Ignoring Emotional Symptoms
The Mistake: Focusing only on physical injuries and dismissing anxiety, sleep problems, or fear of driving as "just stress."
Why it hurts: Car accidents are one of the leading causes of PTSD in adults. Emotional symptoms that go untreated tend to worsen over time and can interfere with physical recovery. Untreated PTSD also complicates your claim if your condition worsens later.
What to do: Mention emotional symptoms to your doctor or open a separate claim for mental health treatment. Oregon PIP covers therapy and psychiatric care related to your accident. Learn more: PTSD & Emotional Recovery After a Car Accident.
6. Not Using PIP
The Mistake: Using health insurance instead of Auto PIP, or not treating because of cost fears.
Why it hurts: PIP has no deductible and no co-pays for covered services in Oregon. It is designed for this exact situation.
What to do: Give your medical providers your auto insurance claim number, not just your health insurance card.