Google Is NOT Your Lawyer – Avoid These Costly Injury Claim Mistakes
After an accident, your instinct may be to open your phone and start searching for answers. In today’s world, Google is often the first place people turn for legal advice — and while it’s fast and convenient, it’s also full of generic, misleading, or flat-out wrong information, especially when it comes to Virginia law.
Attorneys Charles James Williams III and Kimberly Raab have helped hundreds of injured clients throughout Richmond, Chesterfield, Petersburg, and the surrounding Tri-Cities. Together, they’ve witnessed the devastating impact that misinformation can have on a case — from lost compensation to claims being denied entirely.
Let’s walk through the most common mistakes injury victims make on Google, and how both attorneys approach and correct these missteps for clients across Central Virginia.
Mistake #1: Googling “Do I Really Need a Lawyer?” and Believing the Answer Is No
Plenty of online articles suggest that lawyers are only necessary for severe injuries or large claims. Unfortunately, that advice is dangerously incomplete.
“Even so-called minor accidents can lead to long-term complications or completely denied claims,” says Attorney Kimberly Raab. “Insurance companies don’t want to pay — and they have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to reduce or reject your claim.”
In Virginia, where even 1% of fault can disqualify you from receiving any compensation under the rule of contributory negligence, it’s absolutely critical to have experienced legal representation on your side.
Mistake #2: Trusting Generic Legal Advice from Other States
When you search a question online like, “Should I accept a settlement offer after a crash?” you might land on a law firm’s blog in California or Texas — not Virginia.
“We’ve had clients come to us after following out-of-state advice they found on the internet,” says Attorney Charles James Williams III. “Unfortunately, by the time they speak to us, some damage has already been done.”
Each state’s legal system operates differently, and Virginia’s strict comparative fault law and damage caps make it a uniquely challenging place to pursue injury compensation. The key? Always get advice from someone licensed and experienced in Virginia law.
Attorney Kimberly Raab’s Insights: The Dangers of DIY and Social Media
Attorney Raab has seen firsthand how victims lose out on compensation by attempting to manage their cases alone — often based on oversimplified guides or self-help forums.
Trying to Handle a Claim Without a Lawyer
“Many victims are convinced they can save money by avoiding an attorney — but they almost always end up losing money,” Raab explains. “Insurance companies never offer their best number first. We regularly negotiate claims that end up two to five times higher than what was originally offered.”
Google doesn’t understand your medical records, long-term prognosis, or the pain you’re living with. A good attorney does — and knows how to prove it.
Posting on Social Media — Then Googling “Will This Hurt My Case?”
Social media is another area where injury victims make costly mistakes. Raab cautions:
“Posting ‘I’m okay!’ or vacation photos might seem innocent, but insurance companies can twist those posts to minimize your suffering or suggest you’re exaggerating your injuries.”
Even one poorly timed post can jeopardize months of effort. Once it’s online, it’s often admissible in court.
Attorney Charles James Williams III’s Perspective: Why Local Legal Help Matters
Williams takes a strategic and regionally-focused approach to personal injury cases, ensuring his clients benefit from deep knowledge of local courts, judges, and insurance tactics.
The Problem with Searching “Average Settlement for Car Accident”
“When people Google ‘average settlement for a car crash,’ they get broad national statistics that don’t reflect Virginia law,” Williams says. “Each case depends on specifics — like fault, injury severity, and available insurance coverage.”
Thinking your case is worth a certain amount just because Google says so can set you up for disappointment — or worse, accepting a lowball offer.
Virginia’s Unique Legal Landscape
Williams also stresses the importance of understanding Virginia-specific challenges, like contributory negligence, statute of limitations, and procedural deadlines.
“Local representation means we’re ready to file in the right court, argue in front of judges we’ve worked with before, and push back against regional insurance defense strategies,” he adds.
Whether your case is in Richmond, Chesterfield, or Petersburg, you need someone familiar with how the system really works here in Central Virginia.
What You SHOULD Be Googling Instead
If you’re going to use Google during your injury claim, stick to searches that actually help you prepare — rather than mislead you.
Here are safer and more useful searches:
- “Top-rated personal injury lawyers near Richmond VA”
- “What is contributory negligence in Virginia?”
- “What documents to bring to a consultation with a lawyer?”
- “Virginia car accident statute of limitations”
Still, even these searches are just a first step. Your best option is to talk to an attorney who knows the terrain and can tailor advice specifically to your case.
Don’t Let Google Determine the Outcome of Your Case
At Burnett & Williams, we’re not just personal injury attorneys — we’re your advocates and allies through one of the most difficult times in your life. Whether you’re recovering from a car accident, truck crash, or slip and fall, we’re here to handle the legal burdens while you focus on healing.
