Understanding What to Do After an Accident
At Ringstad Law Office, PC, we’ve built our practice in Fairbanks on trust, preparation, and community values. Handling personal injury claims of all types, including car and truck accidents, construction injuries, catastrophic events, and unsafe property conditions, to name a few—we’ve spent over 35 years helping our clients recover fair compensation for their losses.
While representing injured Alaskans, we’ve seen how small missteps can make a big difference in the outcome of a case. When an unexpected injury changes daily life, everything can feel overwhelming. Between medical appointments, calls from insurance adjusters, and the stress of missing work, it’s easy to make decisions that could unintentionally weaken your personal injury claim.
We know that after an accident, you’re dealing with pain, uncertainty, and pressure to move on. However, taking the right steps early can protect your health, finances, and future. Here are five of the most common mistakes people make after suffering a personal injury—and how to avoid them.
Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
After an accident, adrenaline can mask pain and make you think you’re fine. Many people try to “tough it out,” hoping soreness will fade on its own. Unfortunately, waiting too long to seek medical attention can not only worsen injuries but also harm your ability to recover compensation later.
Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, don’t always show symptoms right away. Without prompt medical documentation, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.
If you’ve been hurt in any kind of crash, fall, or other serious incident, we recommend:
- Visiting a doctor or hospital as soon as possible. Don’t assume minor pain will resolve on its own.
- Following all treatment recommendations. Gaps in care can be used against you later.
- Keeping copies of all medical records and receipts. These form the foundation of your injury claim.
Prompt treatment not only protects your health; it also establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries, making your claim far stronger down the road.
Talking to Insurance Adjusters Too Soon
After an accident, it’s common for insurance companies to reach out quickly. The adjuster may sound friendly, concerned, and eager to “get things resolved.” Remember, insurance companies have one main goal: to protect their bottom line.
They may request a recorded statement, ask for access to your medical records, or offer a quick settlement. It might feel tempting to accept the money and move on, but early offers are often far less than what you truly deserve. Once you sign a release, you usually give up your right to seek further compensation, even if new symptoms or complications arise later.
Before you speak with any insurance representative, consult a Fairbanks personal injury lawyer who can guide you through what to say (and what not to say). Having someone handle these conversations for you prevents costly mistakes and ensures your rights stay protected.
Ignoring Evidence or Failing to Document the Scene
Accidents happen fast, and in the chaos that follows, it’s easy to forget to gather evidence. But what you do in those first few moments—or even the next few days—can be critical for your claim.
If you’re physically able, take photos and notes as soon as possible. If not, ask a friend or family member to help. You’ll want to preserve as much information as you can before it disappears.
Important details to record include:
- Photos of the accident scene (including vehicles, equipment, or hazards that caused the injury)
- Visible injuries and property damage
- Names and contact information for witnesses
- Police report details or case numbers
- Weather, lighting, or road conditions, if relevant
Even a single photo or small detail can become valuable evidence later. Over time, memories fade, and physical evidence gets lost or repaired. By documenting everything early, you help your attorney build the strongest possible case.
Posting About Your Accident on Social Media
In today’s world, sharing updates on social media feels natural. But after a personal injury, that instinct can work against you. Insurance companies routinely monitor social media profiles looking for posts that contradict claims of pain or limited mobility.
A single photo, like smiling at a family barbecue or going on a short hike, can be used out of context to suggest your injuries aren’t serious. Even innocent comments about the accident can be twisted or misinterpreted.
To protect your claim, it’s best to:
- Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery.
- Refrain from discussing your case publicly, even in private groups.
- Review your privacy settings and consider pausing your social activity entirely until your case is resolved.
Once information is online, it’s nearly impossible to take back. Keeping your situation off social media is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your credibility.
Waiting Too Long to Contact a Lawyer
After an accident, it’s understandable to focus on recovery before thinking about legal issues. But waiting too long can have serious consequences. Alaska law limits how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can move, and memories fade.
A knowledgeable local attorney can begin working immediately to preserve evidence, handle communication with insurers, and ensure all deadlines are met. The earlier you seek legal guidance, the more options you have for building a strong case.
Get the Help You Need from a Fairbanks Personal Injury Lawyer
When you’re hurt, you shouldn’t have to take on insurance companies or complicated paperwork alone. You deserve someone who knows the Fairbanks community, understands the local courts, and has decades of experience standing up for injured Alaskans.
At Ringstad Law Office, PC, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, because that level of preparation often leads to better settlements. We’ve seen firsthand how a proactive approach can make all the difference, especially in complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability. When you work with us, you won’t be handed off to an assistant or paralegal: you’ll speak directly with Ken and/or Jason Ringstad from start to finish.
Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on what matters most: healing and moving forward with your life. We take pride in walking our clients through every stage of the process, answering questions, and ensuring you understand what’s happening at each step. Your initial consultation is always free, and we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, call (907) 891-7201 or contact us online today.