You were involved in a minor fender bender on your way home from Providence. The damage to your car looks minimal, and you feel relatively unscathed. The other driver is apologetic, and their insurance company quickly reaches out to offer you a settlement for the repairs. Should you accept the offer and move on, or do you need a lawyer for this minor car accident?
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we understand the confusion and uncertainty that can follow even a small collision. Our experienced minor car accident lawyers know how small accidents can lead to significant complications. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly, but their offers might not account for the full extent of your damages or injuries. An experienced car accident attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation, even if the accident seemed minor.
Let’s explore some scenarios where hiring a lawyer after a minor car accident can be beneficial and others where legal representation may not be necessary. Then, make an informed decision about how best to protect your rights and interests following a crash.
When to Consider Hiring a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident
While you may prefer to handle a minor crash on your own, there are several scenarios where seeking legal counsel is wise:
You Suffered Injuries That Weren't Immediately Apparent
Some car accident injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not cause noticeable symptoms right away. However, these "hidden" injuries can lead to chronic pain, ongoing medical treatment, and missed work. If you begin experiencing headaches, dizziness, neck stiffness, or other symptoms in the days following a crash, get checked out by a doctor.
A car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to late-appearing injuries. They can also advise you on documenting your injuries and treatment to support a potential claim.
The Insurance Company Offers a Low Settlement
Insurance adjusters often push for quick settlements after minor accidents, hoping to resolve the claim before the full extent of the damages is known. However, these initial offers may not account for all expenses, especially if you require ongoing medical care.
Before accepting any settlement, it's wise to have a minor car accident lawyer review the offer. They can assess whether the amount is fair and negotiate with the insurer for a higher payout if necessary. The lawyer can also advise you on how a settlement might affect your ability to seek additional compensation if your condition worsens.
Liability for the Accident Is Disputed
Even if the other driver apologized at the scene, they may later change their story or try to blame you for the crash. In Rhode Island, your ability to recover damages is reduced by your percentage of fault under the state's comparative negligence law.
If the other driver or their insurer disputes liability, you could end up with a much lower settlement or even be denied compensation entirely. An experienced car accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence to support your claim, and advocate for your rights during settlement negotiations or in court.
When You Probably Don't Need a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident
Of course, not every fender bender requires legal representation. If the following apply to your situation, you may be able to resolve the matter without hiring a lawyer:
- There were no injuries to either party
- There was only minor damage to vehicles or property
- Accident fault is undisputed
- The insurance company offers a fair settlement that covers all your losses
However, it never hurts to consult with an attorney if you have doubts about the settlement offer or your rights. Most car accident lawyers, including the team at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, offer free initial consultations to review your case and explain your options.
Legal Advice After a Rhode Island Car Crash
Even a minor car accident can be an overwhelming experience. While not every fender bender requires legal representation, there are certainly situations where having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Ultimately, the decision to hire a lawyer after a minor car accident depends on your unique circumstances. However, if you've suffered injuries that weren't immediately apparent, if the insurance company is offering a low settlement, or if liability for the accident is in dispute, it's wise to consult a knowledgeable lawyer to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, our minor car accident lawyers are here to help. We’ll investigate your case, collect crucial evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.