Car accidents are unfortunately common. The average American will be involved in roughly three to four accidents in his or her lifetime. After a collision, many people are unsure of what to do next. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may need to seek immediate medical attention and notify local authorities.
Many car accidents end up costing much more than what is expected. What may seem like a “minor” accident may end up costing major money down the line. To prevent paying for unseen expenses, it is best to consult with a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer can recover compensation for bills that accrue after a collision.
There May Be Hidden Injuries
A car accident can cause a variety of injuries, even some that aren’t immediately noticeable. Due to the body’s use of adrenaline, some injuries won’t be noticeable at the time of the accident, only to appear a few days later. Common injuries sustained from a car accident include:
- Concussions
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Strained tendons
- Contusions
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Burns
After a collision, even a minor one, it is best to seek medical attention. “When individuals pass on receiving medical care immediately following the crash, this can create significant complications when it comes to securing insurance coverage from the at-fault party,” note car accident experts at Manchin Ferretti Injury Law. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention can only improve your claim.
The Other Driver May Blame You
Another reason why you may want to hire a car accident lawyer after a seemingly “minor” accident is if the other driver blames you. The story the driver told at the scene of the collision may be a completely different story the driver tells his or her insurance company. Choosing to have an attorney by your side can also help recover crucial pieces of evidence to help prove you were not at fault.
After leaving the scene of a minor accident without contacting local law enforcement or taking pictures, you may be in a bad position to prove your innocence. Prevent this happening by calling local police.
A police report can be an important piece of evidence in a car accident claim. Ensure you record the police report number as well as the officer name and badge number. When answering questions about the collision, never admit fault or wrongdoing. Explain what happened using facts and do not share more information than necessary.
You May Not Realize Your Options for Compensation
A car accident claim can reimburse a victim for far more than just property damage and medical expenses. By hiring an accident lawyer, you can maximize your financial recovery by evaluating all possible avenues for compensation. This can include:
- Car damage repairs
- Future medical costs
- Disability costs
- Permanent scars or disfigurement
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish
- Lost wages
- Legal expenses
- Punitive damages
Scheduling an Appointment with a Lawyer After a Minor Crash
A car accident may seem minor, but can have major consequences. To avoid being stuck paying for expensive bills for a collision you were not responsible for, contact a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer can help recover the compensation you deserve after a car accident, even if the accident feels minor.
