Accidents can happen at any time, and even minor accidents can result in injuries. If you have been injured in an accident, it is essential to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Whether you bumped into someone while looking for a parking spot or someone hit your vehicle, you may require legal representation. In this article, we will discuss why you need an attorney after a minor accident and what they can do for you.
Do I Need an Attorney After a Minor Car Accident?
After a car accident, whether minor or severe, it’s always best to protect your rights and interests. Avoid making any arrangements with the other driver to exclude law enforcement. They may end up filing a claim against you, and without a police report or witness statements to back you up, you’ll be in a pickle. You can also get in trouble for leaving the accident scene without reporting the incident to the police.
All this becomes so much easier with a car accident attorney. Bengal Law has experience in auto accident cases. Their lawyers are familiar with local laws and can guide you on what to do and avoid in order to protect your interests.
Hidden Injuries After a Minor Accident
Even a minor car accident can result in hidden injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Here are some common types of hidden injuries you may have sustained:
- Whiplash – This is a soft tissue injury that occurs when the neck is jerked back and forth suddenly. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Concussion – A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head is jolted or shaken. Symptoms of a concussion can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty concentrating.
- Back injuries – A car accident can cause damage to the discs, ligaments, and nerves in the back, resulting in pain, numbness, and tingling sensations.
- Internal injuries – Blunt force trauma from a car accident can cause internal injuries such as bruising or bleeding, which may not be apparent immediately.
- Psychological injuries – Car accidents can also result in emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you have been involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention even if you have no visible injuries. You may also want to consider hiring an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. They’ll advise on the best course of action and the importance of obtaining medical records. Your medical care records after the accident can support your claim and improve your chances of recovering fair damages.
Statute of Limitations
In Orlando, Florida, the statute of limitations for car accidents is four years from the date of the accident. This means that if you wish to file a lawsuit against the responsible party for damages resulting from the accident, you must do so within four years of the accident date. The statute of limitations also applies to all car accidents, including minor car accidents. Whether the accident resulted in significant injuries or only minor damage to property, the same statute of limitations applies.
If you wish to pursue legal action for damages resulting from the accident, we recommend consulting with a personal injury attorney. They can advise you on the best course of action to take, regardless of the severity of the accident. An attorney can also help you file your claim before the limitation period lapses.
Common Mistakes People Make After a Minor Accident
It’s easy to make mistakes after a minor car accident due to the shock and adrenaline rush that ensues. Some of the most common mistakes to avoid after an accident include:
- Not Exchanging Information
It’s essential to exchange vital information with the other driver involved in the accident. This may include their name, phone number, and insurance details. Failure to do so can make it difficult to file a claim with your insurance provider.
- Not Documenting the Scene
Taking pictures of the damage to both vehicles, however minor, and the surrounding area can help to support your claim if you need to file one. Note the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved, as well as any relevant traffic signals or signs.
- Failing to Notify Your Insurance Company
It’s important to notify your insurance company about the accident, even if you don’t plan to file a claim. Failure to do so could result in your policy being canceled or your claim being denied if you do decide to file one later on.
If you’ve been involved in a minor car accident, it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. They can guide you on how to preserve your rights and avoid infringing on relevant laws.
