Should I Get A Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?

Most people think of hiring a lawyer only when they’re involved in a serious car accident. However, even minor accidents can lead to unexpected complications, from difficult insurance companies to large repair bills and delayed medical issues. When problems arise, having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference.

What is a “Minor” Car Accident?

Minor car accidents are any type of accident that involves little to no injury or vehicle damage. Some examples of minor car accidents include collisions in parking lots or sideswipes on a city street. These types of accidents can, on the surface, seem like a simple inconvenience, but unfortunately, getting paid for damages and potential injuries may not be so simple.

For example, imagine you are involved in a fender bender, and the other party suggests that you swap contact information and settle the details of insurance later. When you attempt to contact this person, you find you can’t. Or perhaps you feel okay after the accident, but weeks later, you develop neck and spine pain and need treatment, and the other party doesn’t want to provide their insurance information so that you can file a claim.

In some cases, the damage to your vehicle doesn’t look like it will cost much. But when you receive a repair estimate, the cost is substantial, and you realize you’ll need to file a claim for payment.

These scenarios can be difficult to navigate, especially if the other party ignores your attempts to contact them or obtain their insurance information. Having an attorney on your side may be the best way to tackle a minor accident and receive the settlement money you need.

When to Speak With a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident

You may not want to involve a car accident attorney if you don’t have to, but in some cases, doing so could be the best way to protect your ability to cover medical treatment and damages that are more than you anticipated.

Here are a few situations where consulting an attorney is a good idea:

• You are experiencing new or worsening pain after the accident. Some injuries, like concussions, whiplash, strains, and sprains, may not be symptomatic immediately.
• You run into issues over liability. You say the other driver was at fault, they say you were at fault. If there’s no police report or if liability is an issue, hiring an attorney may be the best solution.
• The amount of money the insurer offered you is far too low to cover your expenses.
• The other party and/or their insurer non-communicative.
• You know you need money to help with your expenses, but you aren’t sure how to value your claim.

How a Lawyer Can Help With Your Minor Car Accident Case

When you hire a car accident lawyer, they act as your personal representative, helping take the pressure and stress of dealing with a minor car accident off your shoulders. At Huffman & Huffman, our attorneys can work to:

• Gather evidence to support your claim.
• Accurately value your claim, ensuring it includes all possible damages you may be eligible to recover.
• File the claim on your behalf, handling all paperwork and deadlines.
• Negotiate a settlement with the insurance carrier, advocating for your best interests.
• Manage communications with the insurer and the other driver, avoiding delays and misunderstandings.

Even in a minor accident, things can get complicated—whether it’s dealing with hidden damages or unexpected medical costs. Our team ensures that you’re fully supported throughout the process, helping you navigate any bumps along the way.

What to Do After a Minor Car Accident

If you’re involved in a minor car accident, you should follow these steps.

1. Check for injuries. Make sure no one needs immediate medical attention. If they do, call 911.
2. Call the police. While you’re only required to report the accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage in excess of $1,500, it’s best to do so even after a seemingly minor collision. Having a police report can support your car accident claim.
3. Exchange information. Collect information from the other parties involved, including their driver’s license number, insurance information, and phone number.
4. Collect information from any eyewitnesses. If there were any bystanders to the accident, ask them if they are willing to provide their contact information.
5. Take photographs. Document the scene, including the damage, position of the vehicles, and the road conditions.
6. Assess your vehicle. If you can drive your vehicle away from the scene, it may be a good idea to drive it to the nearest repair shop to make sure there is no damage (other than cosmetic) that needs to be addressed.

If you aren’t sure if you are hurt or could be hurt, it’s a good idea to head to the nearest medical facility and get a medical assessment to rule out unseen injuries like internal bleeding, minor fractures, and whiplash.

Have Questions or Concerns After a Minor Car Accident? Huffman & Huffman Can Help

At Huffman & Huffman, our attorneys have more than 150 years of combined experience representing victims of both minor and major car accidents. We take every case seriously, providing the same level of care and attention to even the smallest cases, and fighting to help you get the maximum compensation possible. Whether it’s getting your vehicle repaired or covering medical expenses, we’re here to support you. If you’ve been in a minor accident and need assistance, contact us today for a case review.