Minor Collisions And Major Headaches
In Orlando, where highways like I-4 and busy intersections near theme parks are always packed, fender benders and low-speed crashes are common. Because many of these accidents are labeled as minor collisions, these accidents might seem like no big deal at first glance. There may be no airbags deployed, the damage might appear cosmetic, and both drivers might even agree to skip calling the police. But even the most minor accident can lead to major headaches.
Just because the damage isn’t dramatic doesn’t mean the aftermath isn’t. If you’ve been involved in a minor collision, take it seriously. Get checked out by a doctor, document everything, and don’t assume the insurance company has your best interests in mind. Talking to a skilled Orlando personal injury attorney who understands that even minor accidents can come with major consequences is also key. Always speak to an experienced Orlando accident lawyer before speaking to any insurance company.
Minor Accident Qualifiers and Hidden Costs
A minor car accident typically involves low-speed impact and minimal or no visible vehicle damage. Additionally, no immediate injuries are reported and the cars involved are still drivable. These types of accidents frequently occur in parking lots, stop-and-go traffic, or at traffic lights. Yet despite how minimal they may seem, recovery can still be complicated.
Even without major vehicle damage, minor crashes can result in serious problems over time:
- Delayed injuries. Whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and concussions often don’t show symptoms right away. Many people walk away from a crash only to develop pain or stiffness days later.
- Insurance disputes. Insurance companies might argue that your injuries couldn’t have come from a low-speed crash, leading to delayed or denied claims.
- Property damage disagreements. Even low-impact crashes can cause hidden damage to vehicle alignment or electronics, which can be costly to repair.
- Emotional stress. The stress of dealing with paperwork, repairs, and doctor visits, especially while trying to keep up with work or family responsibilities, can be overwhelming.
You may think a lawyer isn’t necessary for a small crash, but in many cases, having legal guidance makes a major difference when it comes to accessing a fair settlement.
No-Fault Considerations and Legal Support
Remember, Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means your insurance company is responsible for paying the initial medical and/or lost wages up to a limit of $10,000.00 minus any applicable deductible, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, they don’t pay 100% and thus you may need to pursue a claim against the at-fault party and/or their insurance company. Under Florida’s No-Fault law (also known as personal injury protection or PIP), you have 14 days from the date of the accident to see a doctor for your injuries or you may lose your rights to claim these medical and/or lost wage benefits.
An experienced Orlando personal injury attorney can help you document injuries that may not show up immediately and protect you from insurance companies that minimize your claim. With seasoned legal support, you can receive fair compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain. Professionals are available to manage communications and paperwork so you can focus on healing.
Could you benefit from legal advice following a seemingly small car accident? Don’t dismiss a minor crash. It’s important to understand how these incidents can have long-lasting consequences. Talking to the dedicated lawyers at Israoui Law is a way to protect your rights. Call 407-381-4529 for the personal attention you deserve.
