If you were in a minor car accident, you may be wondering whether it is necessary to hire an attorney. A fender bender can involve injuries that may not become apparent until weeks later. It is vital to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible following the collision to preserve your claim, protect your rights, and learn about your legal options. An attorney can assist you with navigating your insurance claim and help ensure you receive the monetary recovery you deserve.

What is Considered a Minor Car Accident?

These types of accidents are usually characterized by a low force of impact and occur at slower speeds. Property damage is usually minimal and limited to dents, scratches, and cosmetic issues — which do not prevent the vehicle from operating. Vehicle occupants often initially report minor injuries in low-impact collisions. However, it is important to be aware that many types of injuries sustained in minor car accidents take time to fully develop.

What Types of Injuries Are Sustained in Minor Car Accidents?

After an initial impact the pain you are experiencing may be masked by adrenaline and endorphins, which can make you feel as if you escaped the crash without getting hurt. But since inflammation can build gradually, certain injuries may not become apparent until days or even weeks later. Notably, even a minor crash can result in injuries that affect your daily life and livelihood.

Common injuries sustained can include the following:

• Whiplash
• Sprains and strains
• Herniated discs
• Knee injuries
• Bruises
• Fractures
• Head injuries
• Back injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Concussions

Regardless of whether you think you have been badly hurt or not, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately after a collision to rule out any internal damage — and begin a course of treatment that prevents any injuries from worsening. By obtaining prompt medical treatment, you are also creating documentation in your case that establishes a causal connection between the accident and your injuries. If you wait until your injuries have fully developed to see a doctor, the insurance company may argue you are not as injured as you claim, or your injuries were caused by another incident.

Reasons to Hire an Attorney for a Minor Car Accident

There are several important reasons to hire a personal injury attorney, even after a minor car accident. Significantly, the at-fault party’s insurance company may try to pay out as little as possible on your claim — they might even try to place the blame on you, rather than accept liability for their insured. An attorney can safeguard your legal rights, guide you through the process of filing a claim, and help you secure the compensation to which you’re entitled.

Following a minor collision, an attorney can also:

• Deal with the insurance company — Personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and experience necessary to deal with the at-fault party’s insurance company. While anything you say to the insurance adjuster can be used against you in your case, an attorney can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure your interests are protected.
• Refute the insurance company’s denial based on a pre-existing condition — The insurance company may try to argue that your injuries are exaggerated or pre-existing to reduce your compensation or deny your claim. An attorney can work to establish the extent of your injuries and demonstrate that the accident caused or aggravated your condition.
• Negotiate a fair settlement — A personal injury attorney can evaluate liability and the damages in your case. They will determine what a fair settlement would be for your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. An attorney can build a strong case and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Investigate the accident — An attorney will know how to investigate the scene of the accident and gather evidence that will establish the at-fault party’s liability. They may also bring in various expert witnesses who can provide testimony regarding how the accident occurred, the types of injuries you have suffered, and the extent of your damages. For example, in cases like a car accident with a driver on the clock, understanding liability and gathering expert testimony can be crucial in determining responsibility.
• Alleviate your stress — After a car crash, your focus should be on your health and recovering from your injuries. An attorney can handle the legal aspects of your case to alleviate your stress and allow you to focus on what matters most.

An attorney can also help you avoid any pitfalls that could harm your case, such as giving too much information to the insurance company. Once you have the representation of an attorney, the at-fault party’s insurance company may no longer contact you directly. They must go through your legal counsel to obtain any information from you.

Contact an Experienced Washington Personal Injury Attorney

If you were in a minor car accident, your injuries could be worse than you think. It is imperative to have the representation of a skillful personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and work to obtain your rightful compensation. The Bellingham personal injury attorneys at Robinson & Kole provide reliable counsel to accident victims throughout Washington State for a wide range of personal injury matters, including minor car crashes, and work to obtain the best possible outcome in every case.