You’re driving home from work one day when, out of nowhere, another car sideswipes you. Thankfully, there’s not much damage to either vehicle, and everyone involved seems okay. Still, you exchange insurance information with the other driver and file a police report just to be on the safe side. Now that the dust has settled, you might be wondering: do I need a lawyer? While it’s true that many minor car accidents can be handled without legal assistance, there are some circumstances where it’s in your best interest to consult with a Waterbury personal injury lawyer. Consider the following situations:
The other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
An uninsured motorist is a driver who does not have any insurance at all. An underinsured motorist, on the other hand, is a driver who has insurance, but the coverage is not enough to cover the full extent of the damages caused in the accident.
In either case, your own auto insurance policy should provide some coverage. In Connecticut, all drivers are required to have liability insurance for bodily injury coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. If you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver and you have this coverage, your insurance company will pay out up to these limits.
You suffered injuries in the accident.
Even car accidents that seem minor can lead to serious injuries. Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head and neck suddenly snap forward and then back again. This type of injury can lead to long-term pain and suffering and, in some cases, permanent disability. If you’ve been in an accident, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible to be checked for whiplash and other injuries.
The accident caused significant damage to your vehicle.
You might not think a minor fender bender can do much damage to your car. After all, it’s just a minor accident, right? Unfortunately, even the most minor car accidents can cause significant damage to your vehicle—damage that may not be immediately apparent.
One of the most common types of hidden damage from car accidents is damage to your vehicle’s frame. Even a low-speed collision can cause the frame to bend or twist, which can adversely affect the performance of your car. If you’ve been in an accident, take your vehicle to a reputable mechanic or body shop and have them check the frame for any signs of damage.
Another type of hidden damage that can occur as a result of a car accident is leaking fluids. Even if there’s no visible damage to your car, fluids may have leaked as a result of the collision. These leaks can lead to all sorts of problems down the road, including engine trouble and brake failure. If you’ve been in an accident, it’s crucial to have a mechanic check for any fluid leaks.
As you can see, even minor car accidents can cause significant damage— to both your car and your body. If you’ve been involved in any type of accident, it’s important to have your car thoroughly inspected by a mechanic and to see a doctor as soon as possible. Taking these precautions can minimize the long-term damages caused by an accident. You should also contact an experienced Waterbury car accident attorney. They can help you understand your rights and options under the law and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.