When a road accident occurs, victims often suffer both physical and emotional pain. The most important thing is to receive fair and timely compensation. However, many insurance companies use delaying tactics, often saying, “Get well first, then make your claim.” In reality, this can cause victims to lose their right to claim full compensation.
Insurance Tactic: “Get Well First”
At first glance, this advice may sound reasonable since victims naturally want to recover. But legally, waiting until full recovery can weaken the case because:
- Evidence of injuries fades over time.
- In court, insurers often argue:
• The victim has already recovered.
• There is no ongoing damage.
• No need to pay the claimed compensation.
Thus, “get well first” is not just about delaying it’s a legal strategy to weaken the victim’s claim.
Case Study: Father’s Advice from Taiwan “You should consult a lawyer here.”
In one real case, a passenger injured in a van accident was told by the insurance company: “Recover first, then claim.”
Initially, the vehicle owner promised to help but soon withdrew support, leaving the victim anxious and helpless. Fortunately, her father, working in Taiwan and following Lawyer Arm’s YouTube channel, insisted: “If you hear this phrase, contact Lawyer Arm immediately.” This changed everything the victim sought proper legal counsel.
Why Consult a Lawyer Immediately?
Claiming compensation is not just paperwork, it’s a legal battle against insurance companies backed by professional lawyers. Without legal support, victims are at a huge disadvantage. Lawyers can:
- Assess damages (medical bills, lost income, future costs).
- Prepare legally valid medical and legal documents.
- Represent victims effectively in court.
- Prevent insurers from delaying or denying compensation.
Attorney Arm emphasizes: Insurance companies already have lawyers before an accident even happens, but victims often have none.
The Pitfalls of “Get Well First”
Victims who follow this advice often find:
- Insurers argue recovery means no claim.
- Compensation is reduced or denied.
- Crucial evidence (medical certificates, injury photos, receipts) is lost.
The law allows victims to claim both present and future damages. Waiting only weakens the claim.
The Danger of Wrong Advice from “Fake Lawyers”
Victims often receive misleading advice from so-called “know-it-alls” or “People who don’t know the truth” neighbors or acquaintances without legal training. For example:
“If you claim it once, you can’t claim it again.”
This is legally incorrect. Courts allow victims to claim for future damages and even add claims later if necessary.
Insurance Company Have “Lawyers,” Victims Only Have “People who don’t know the truth”
Insurance companies have legal teams from the start. Victims, however, often rely on unqualified advice, making them vulnerable. One common tactic:
“Recover first, then claim.”
Later in court, insurers counter with: “You’re already recovered, so you can’t claim more.”
Only Real Lawyers Can Protect Your Rights
Being a lawyer requires years of study and licensing. “People who don’t know the truth” only pretend to know and mislead victims. Believing them risks losing your legal rights.
- Don’t rely on unqualified advice.
- Consult an experienced lawyer immediately after an accident.
- Don’t let insurers delay or trick you with “get well first.”
Claiming compensation after a car accident is not a minor issue. Insurance companies protect their interests with legal teams. Victims need real lawyers too. Acting fast ensures fair compensation and justice.
Don’t let the words of the insurance company take away your rights to consult a lawyer from the very day the accident happens.
In the event of a car accident, no matter how serious or minor your injuries are, do not wait until you have fully recovered before making a claim. Doing so may put you at a disadvantage in court and cause you to lose your right to claim compensation. From the moment the accident occurs, you should collect evidence, contact a lawyer, and proceed with your claim according to your legal rights.
If you or your loved one has been in a car accident and hears the phrase “Get well first before claiming” from the insurance company, do not believe it. Immediately seek advice from a professional lawyer. The legal team at Wongsakorn Law Office, led by Lawyer Arm, is ready to consult with you and stand by your side, ensuring that you receive justice and the full compensation you deserve.