You’re at a red light after a long day at work when… CLANG! An inattentive driver hits your car from behind. Your cars have some small dents and scrapes, but you feel fine. Since you’re already tired, you decide not to call the police or give your information to the other person. But you might be thinking, “Should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident?”
The last thing you want after a frustrating drive is to wait on the side of the road and make traffic worse. You’re going home to sit back, relax, and watch some TV.
But this is actually one of the worst mistakes you can make when it comes to a car crash. Here’s why.
Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident? 4 Reasons Why You Should
It is Illegal to Not File a Report
If the crash involved injuries, possible injuries, fatalities, or property damage of more than $500, you are required to file a report under Florida’s laws. Otherwise, you may receive a fine, even if the accident was minor.
You Weaken Future Claims
If you lose contact with the other driver or witnesses before they’ve given you statements, there will be no one who can testify and offer an account of the accident. You may also be overlooking information and damages that occurred to your car during the accident, which you could have used for a legal claim.
You May Experience Unknown Injuries
Studies show that there are minor car accidents that can cause injuries that don’t present themselves for days. You might not be severely injured when you’re hit from behind, but you could have strained your body and not know it. Minor car accidents can also cause injury if a person is barely jolted and their back or neck experiences an impact, even if the impact seems small.
If you fail to report the incident at the scene, it will be difficult to take your personal injury suit to court or achieve a fair settlement. It often doesn’t matter if there is a medical professional on your side because one of the key points would have been undermined.
The Other Party Strengthens Their Case
What are the consequences if you don’t report a minor car accident to the police? You were the party that drove away without a report. Now, they have filed their own claim against you. Their reports contradict yours, even though you know that they are exaggerating or not telling the truth about their alleged injuries and damage.
Don’t Waste Your Time or Hard-Earned Money
Should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident? Ultimately, it’s in your best interest to do so since potential lawsuits and hearings can be time-consuming and expensive. Avoid the hassle and report the accident when it happens. Your next step is to call a personal injury attorney dedicated to your case. At Pacin Levine, P.A., we will help you collect evidence, repair your car, and negotiate with the insurance company to give you the best settlement possible.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless you win. Call us at 1-800-247-2727 — we will pick up your call 24/7, during days, nights, or weekends.
