Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?
Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident? You may not need a lawyer after a minor car accident, but you may benefit from hiring one if you were injured, if there are disputes about fault, or if insurance companies dispute your claim.
Our Richmond car accident lawyer offers free case evaluations so that you can get a professional opinion on your car accident case.
The Need For a Lawyer When You are Injured in a Minor Car Accident
A minor car accident that most people would classify as a fender bender can lead to injuries that require surgery or that put you out of action for a considerable time. Early diagnosis can improve outcomes, so it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident, even if you think you’re uninjured.
Common injuries that may mean you need a lawyer after a minor car accident include (but are not limited to) the following.
Concussion Can Be More Serious Than Most People Realize
You can be concussed even when you don’t sustain a blow to the head. A sudden jolt can be enough to inflict this form of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although most people recover from a concussion within two to four weeks, there is a risk of longer-term, and even permanent, complications, especially if you have experienced a concussion in the past.
Your doctor will alert you to common symptoms of a traumatic brain injury you should be alert for after a concussion. Rest, and consult a doctor immediately if symptoms worsen or you notice new symptoms that indicate cause for concern.
Minor Car Accidents Can Cause Spinal Injuries
A spinal injury, such as a herniated disc, may also impact your productivity and quality of life for a considerable time. You may require complex and costly spinal surgery. In this example, your property damage is likely to be the least of your costs. You not only have to pay for treatment, but you may not be able to work while you recuperate.
Other Injuries That Can Be More Costly Than You Expect
Hurting a shoulder, wrist, knee, or foot may not seem too serious at first, but it may require a course of treatments and therapies, may require surgery, and your injury can affect your earning capacity during your recovery. Successfully claiming compensation might be the only way to protect your financial security.
You can’t really predict recovery times and complications right after you’ve been injured. Discuss your case with a lawyer even if you hope to recover quickly. They can determine whether you have a case for compensation and advise you on next steps.
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A Lawyer Can Represent You When There are Disputes Over Fault
Disputes over fault can easily lead to you losing the right to compensation. In Virginia, Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-34 applies when more than one driver caused your accident. Each must pay their share. However, common law, as recorded in court decisions, can bar you from recovering damages. If you are found as little as 1% to blame for an accident, you cannot recover compensation.
This rule makes it profitable for insurance companies to raise disputes over fault. Most people don’t know how to react and don’t have the experience it takes to present a strong case. In many cases, having an experienced lawyer to represent you can be the only way to protect your right to compensation.
Apart from hiring a lawyer, follow your doctor’s orders when injured in an accident, and avoid discussing your accident with insurance companies. If you are active on social media, be careful about what you post. You may inadvertently say something that defendants can use against you.
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Insurance Companies Dispute Your Claim and Offer You Less Than You May Deserve
Even when it’s clear that you cannot be blamed for your accident in any way, insurance companies may offer you a far lower settlement than you deserve. Most people don’t know how to evaluate settlement offers and end up accepting one that doesn’t even cover their costs.
Meanwhile, you may be entitled to compensation over and above reimbursement for lost wages and medical costs. Your lawyer will factor in personal damages, such as pain and suffering, and will take your future prognosis into account. Their forethought may mean you are awarded a comprehensive settlement that addresses far more than the obvious basics.
Choose a lawyer who is a strong negotiator and who is willing to take your case to court if insurance companies don’t offer a fair settlement. Although fighting to maximize compensation can delay settlement, waiting for a better outcome can be worthwhile.
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How Consulting a Lawyer as Soon as Possible After a Minor Car Accident Helps You
Although it may be tempting to wait and see how your injuries affect you before consulting a lawyer, contacting one as soon as you can is a wise strategy. They can determine what your compensation may be based on your current status, helping you make informed decisions.
If they believe you may have a strong case, and you choose to work with them, they can preserve time-sensitive evidence and start building a case in your favor. Remembering that you may need a lawyer for a minor car accident and getting legal advice early on is always advisable, especially if you’re injured.
After a minor car accident, you may need a lawyer to strengthen your case, help you avoid costly errors, and improve the chance of achieving a faster resolution. An established, well-reputed law firm will always advise you with your best interests in mind.
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Consulting The Heavy Hitters® is Risk and Obligation-Free
You may need a lawyer for a minor car accident, especially if you have sustained an injury. Talking to a professional so that you can understand your rights is cost and obligation-free when you choose The Pendleton Law Team.
Our law firm has been helping injured people in Virginia since 2011. We care about fair outcomes and about you. You should not have to bear all the financial and personal costs of an accident you did not cause. Call us today to schedule your initial appointment and receive a free case assessment from an experienced lawyer.
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