Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers | January 25, 2024 | Car Accidents
If you were in a minor car accident in Orlando, Florida, you may need clarification about whether you need to retain the services of an attorney. The answer to this question may be more complex than you think. While the accident may have been minor, your decision to hire an attorney will primarily depend on the extent of your injuries and other related factors.
Hiring a car accident lawyer in Orlando after a minor collision can protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
What You Should Know About Minor Car Accidents
Even minor car accidents can significantly impact the quality of your life. Imagine this scenario: you’re sitting at a red light, and suddenly, another driver who wasn’t paying attention rear-ends your car. Both cars have minor damage, and you and the other driver feel fine. It’s been a long day, and you decide not to call the police or exchange information. You might think, “Do I need to hire a lawyer after a minor car accident?”
Leaving the scene without reporting the accident can be a mistake, even in a minor car accident. Failing to file a police report after a car accident can be considered illegal depending on the severity of injuries and property damage. It doesn’t matter if you believe you weren’t injured or if the vehicles sustained only minor damage. Leaving the accident scene can make it challenging to establish the facts later on.
Aside from the legal aspects, leaving the scene prematurely can also jeopardize any potential claims you may have against the other driver, even if there is minimal damage to your car.
What Are The Components of a Minor Car Accident?
Minor car accidents typically involve collisions with limited impact and minimal damage or injuries.
Examples of minor car accidents include:
- The Common Fender Bender: Think of low-speed dings to minor front or rear bumper damage.
- Parking Lot Incidents: Think about key scrapes on the car door or getting hit when backing out.
- Side-Swipes: Minor contact along the sides of vehicles, like pulling out of a parking lot and coming into contact with a vehicle.
- Rear-End Collisions: These normally happen at lower speeds in traffic, and bumpers are damaged.
Injuries and damages associated with minor car accidents can include whiplash, soft tissue injuries, bruises, scrapes, property damage, and psychological impacts like stress or anxiety.
What Do People Go Wrong About Minor Car Accidents?
Common misconceptions about minor car accidents can lead you to make costly mistakes that jeopardize your personal injury claim. To protect yourself and your right to pursue compensation, avoid making the following mistakes:
Thinking You Are Not Responsible for Reporting the Accident
All car accidents, whether minor or severe, should be reported to the police. Failing to report can have legal repercussions. Consequences for leaving the accident scene may include fines or jail time, especially if you leave the scene without exchanging information.
Thinking That Hiding the Accident from an Insurance Company Is Helpful
Promptly reporting the accident to your insurance provider is essential, even if you weren’t at fault. Insurance companies and policyholders often sign contracts to have all insured vehicle accidents reported within a specific timeframe. This is done to benefit the insurance company and the client. In short, it initiates the claims process and protects you from paying out-of-pocket for damages.
Believing That Medical Care Is Not Required if the Accident Is Minor
Just because you don’t have immediate visible injuries doesn’t mean you’re completely fine. Some injuries might not be apparent right away. Never refuse medical treatment even if you are not in pain. It’s crucial to seek medical evaluation after any accident. Doing so gives you the best chance of recovering and helps substantiate a personal injury claim.
Believing That Consulting With a Lawyer Is a Waste of Time
You will decrease your chances of receiving fair compensation without a lawyer. Skilled car accident attorneys have the expertise and resources needed to successfully advocate for you. Their skills help ensure you get fair compensation for your injuries.
Believing That Accepting the First Settlement Offer Is Required
Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements. It’s advisable to trust your lawyer because they are skilled at negotiating with insurance companies. An Orlando car accident lawyer can ensure you do not accept a settlement that is less than your case is worth.
Car Accident Lawyers Provide Legal Expertise and Experience
Car accident attorneys understand local, state, and federal traffic laws. Your attorney will also understand insurance policies, which are crucial for determining liability and maximizing compensation.
They work with accident reconstruction specialists to gather evidence and establish a clear picture of the accident. In case of litigation, attorneys can represent you effectively in court.
Attorneys are skilled negotiators. They communicate effectively with all parties involved and promote your best interest as the solution to the issue.
Car Accident Attorneys Navigate Florida Insurance Claims
Attorneys talk to insurance companies and come to an agreement by referencing the law and understanding how to obtain compensation through insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits.
Car accident lawyers gather evidence and research information for your specific case to strengthen the insurance claim. They use all available information to present compelling evidence to support your claims and prevent undervaluation by insurers.
The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer in Minor Accidents
Lawyers evaluate the viability of your case by examining liability, injuries, property damage, evidence, insurance coverage, causation, and more. They can assess the potential for negotiation or litigation.
Attorneys handle all communication with insurers, protect your interests, and help you navigate complex legal issues. They ensure your case is filed within the statute of limitations. If necessary, they pursue litigation to secure maximum compensation.
When should you hire a car accident attorney:
- If your injuries are severe or need ongoing care.
- When liability is unclear or multiple parties are involved.
- If you had pre-existing injuries worsened by the accident.
- If you’re unfamiliar with legal procedures.
- If you’re experiencing persistent pain or significant life disruption.
- When the opposing party or their insurer is uncooperative.
Consider the attorney’s experience, track record, fee structure, resources, and client testimonials. Ask questions about their specialization, past cases, negotiation strategies, communication style, and fee arrangements.
Auto Accident Attorneys Work on a Contingency Fee Basis
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay them if they secure a settlement for you. You can also consult an attorney for free during a case evaluation to understand your rights and options. This allows you to seek legal counsel and representation without taking on an overwhelming financial burden.
Get the Help You Need After Your Minor Car Accident
While a minor car accident may seem insignificant, it’s essential to consider your legal rights, potential injuries, and the importance of seeking professional legal assistance to navigate the aftermath effectively.
Contact an Orlando Car Accident Lawyer from Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Orlando today. We have five convenient locations in Florida, including Orlando, Melbourne, Cocoa, Titusville, and Palm Bay
We proudly serve Orange County, Brevard County, and the surrounding areas:
Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers – Orlando Office
964 Lake Baldwin Ln Ste. 200 Orlando, FL 32814, United States
(407)-801-3000
Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers – Melbourne Office
1600 W Eau Gallie Blvd #205j, Melbourne, FL 32935
(321)-334-3929
Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers – Cocoa Office
717 S Cocoa Blvd STE 203, Cocoa, FL 32922
(321)-517-2079
Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers – Titusville Office
4527 S Hopkins Ave Suite B, Titusville, FL 32780
(321)-455-5182
Norden Leacox Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers – Palm Bay Office
4620 Lipscomb street N.E Suite #3K, Palm Bay, FL 32905
(321)-334-3819