After a collision in Tempe, your first instinct might be to call your insurance provider and “just tell them everything.” That's exactly what many drivers do—often without realizing it could jeopardize their entire case. Before you make any statements or sign any paperwork, it's important to understand what the insurance companies don't want you to know. A Tempe accident attorney can help protect your rights, but more importantly, knowing these common mistakes can help you avoid trouble from the very start.
Mistake #1: Admitting Fault Too Soon
In the heat of the moment, even saying “I'm sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your own words can reduce your compensation—even if you weren't primarily at fault.
Pro tip: Stick to the facts. Let the investigators and attorneys assign fault. Don't speculate or apologize.
Mistake #2: Giving a Recorded Statement Without Legal Guidance
Insurance adjusters often sound friendly—but they're trained to extract statements that reduce liability. A single misworded sentence about the crash can be used to justify a lower payout.
What to do instead: Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you've reviewed your situation thoroughly.
Mistake #3: Waiting Too Long to File
Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations for injury claims, but you shouldn't wait more than a few days to begin the process. Delays can result in lost witness testimony, missing evidence, and suspicious gaps in medical treatment.
What can help: Start the paperwork and gather documentation as soon as possible—even if you're unsure whether a claim is necessary yet.
Mistake #4: Not Getting a Medical Exam
A surprising number of accident victims “feel fine” right after the crash and skip the doctor altogether. Days or weeks later, injuries surface—and by then, insurers are skeptical and use the delay against you.
Solution: Always get examined. Medical records from day one are powerful evidence.
Mistake #5: Accepting the First Offer
Most first-time settlement offers from insurance companies are strategically low. They're betting you'll accept fast cash rather than push for what you're truly owed.
Your move: Don't rush. Even if the insurer says it's a “final offer,” there is almost always room to negotiate—especially if you have documentation, treatment history, and strong evidence.
Mistake #6: Believing the Insurance Company Is on Your Side
This one's simple. They're not.
Their loyalty is to their shareholders, not your recovery. Claims are resolved based on risk minimization—not fairness.
That's why drivers in complex cases often work with a Tempe accident attorney who understands insurance negotiation strategy. But even if you don't hire a lawyer, knowing these pitfalls gives you the upper hand.
Final Word
Insurance claims can be complicated, even when the accident seems “straightforward.” Tempe's roads are busy, fault isn't always obvious, and insurers are rarely generous out of the gate. Protecting yourself starts with avoiding the common traps.
You don't need to be an expert to avoid losing out—just be informed, cautious, and assertive.
