How to Protect Your Health and Your Claim—Advice from Memphis’ Accident Doctors
After a car accident in Memphis, dealing with insurance companies can feel like a second battle—one where the rules aren’t always fair. At Paragon Medical Group, we’ve helped countless accident victims navigate this process, and we’ve seen how simple mistakes can drastically reduce compensation or delay recovery.
Here are the 5 most common insurance mistakes—and how to avoid them to protect both your health and your legal rights.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to See a Doctor
Why It Hurts You:
Insurance adjusters often argue, “If you were really hurt, you would’ve seen a doctor immediately.” Delaying care gives them an excuse to lowball your claim—or deny it entirely.
The Smart Move:
- Get examined within 72 hours, even if you feel “fine.”
- Paragon Medical Group offers same-day evaluations to document injuries early.
Mistake #2: Giving a Recorded Statement Without Legal or Medical Advice
Why It Hurts You:
Adjusters may ask leading questions like, “You’re not seriously hurt, right?”—hoping you’ll downplay injuries. These statements get used against you later.
The Smart Move:
- Politely say: “I’ll provide a statement after completing medical treatment.”
- Let your medical records (not an offhand comment) speak for you.
Mistake #3: Skipping Follow-Up Appointments
Why It Hurts You:
Insurers track your treatment. If you stop too soon, they’ll claim you’re “fully healed”—even if you’re still in pain.
The Smart Move:
- Follow your doctor’s full treatment plan (we’ll coordinate therapy, specialists, etc.).
- Paragon provides detailed progress notes to strengthen your claim.
Mistake #4: Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Why It Hurts You:
Early offers are often far less than your case is worth—especially before long-term costs (like chronic pain or lost wages) are clear.
The Smart Move:
- Never sign anything until your doctor confirms you’ve reached “maximum medical improvement.”
- We’ll document all injuries so you (or your attorney) can negotiate fairly.
Mistake #5: Not Choosing a Doctor Who Knows How Insurance Works
Why It Hurts You:
Most clinics just treat you—they won’t fight for the paperwork insurers demand. Without proper documentation, your claim fizzles.
The Smart Move:
- Paragon’s team specializes in accident cases. We:
- Detail exactly how injuries impact your daily life.
- Work with attorneys to build strong cases.
- Handle insurance hassles so you can focus on healing.
