After a visit to the grocery store for some dire mealtime necessities, you start your car and slowly begin to reverse when all of a sudden…
BAM. Something in your rearview has collided with your car, bringing you to an immediate halt–another vehicle.
While we often follow up major car accidents with a call to law enforcement and guidance from various car accident lawyers, is a personal injury attorney needed for what could be deemed a minor inconvenience?
What is a Fender Bender Accident?
A fender bender is a type of minor car accident that occurs at a low speed, where most of the vehicle’s damage is centralized to the fender.
While fender bender accidents are low-impact and result in minimal damages or injuries, believing that you don’t need to make a “big fuss” over what could be deemed as a minor inconvenience might just be the biggest mistake you could make.
Three Reasons Having a Charleston Car Accident Lawyer on Your Case Could Help
Minor accidents, such as fender benders, may seem inconsequential but can actually leave you with mounting medical bills, an unfair settlement, and insurance companies minimizing your claim.
That’s why you just leave it to Hoffman.
Insurance Companies May Attempt to Minimize the Impact of a Crash
In the aftermath of an accident, whether minor or severe, the last thing you want to navigate is communication with insurance companies and adjusters.
Insurance companies may deem themselves as a “safety net” of sorts in the event of the unexpected, but that does not always mean they want to pay out for an accident. It is possible for insurance companies to delay or outright refuse to cover accident-related expenses, including the mounting medical bills covering your kitchen counter.
With a team of highly-skilled car accident lawyers near you, they can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, helping you combat bad-faith practices and receive fair compensation.
Paperwork Can Start to Get Heavy–Especially During Recovery
Paperwork is a tedious affair, and one that is not always easy to stay ahead of in the midst of physical therapy appointments and ongoing medical care from your accident injury. Failing to complete paperwork or file documentation in a timely manner may result in forfeiting your right to a claim and the compensation that accompanies it.
At Hoffman Law Firm, our team understands the time constraints, paperwork, and procedural requirements for car accident cases, including:
- Verifying the accuracy of the police report
- Compiling documentation, such as medical records
- Communicating with insurance providers
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Filing the documentation to initiate a lawsuit
You Deserve a Fair Settlement Offer–But That’s Not Always the Case
Car accidents often involve more than just physical injuries and bruises–they often encompass emotional stress, ongoing medical care, and a totaled vehicle, among others.
But not everyone is looking out for what you need.
Insurance companies can, at times, offer a settlement that is less than what you deserve and less than what will cover accident-related costs. While it may seem like a good idea to “take what you can get,” this is where our car accident attorneys step in.
Our attorneys can calculate the cost of your physical and emotional injuries, both present and future. We understand what you and your recovery are worth, and we work diligently to ensure you are offered what you need so you aren’t stuck covering long-term costs on your own.
What to Do in a Fender Bender: Key Steps
If you are involved in a fender bender or other minor car accident, there are key steps you can take to ensure you are following the law and protecting your right to compensation.
1. Contact Law Enforcement
While it may feel unnecessary, most states deem it illegal to fail to file a police report after an accident, even a minor one. Immediately contact law enforcement officials who will document the events of the incident via a police report. In turn, this may help in building your future claim.
2. Collect Evidence
No piece of evidence is minor when it comes to a car accident, so its important that you gather all the information in the moments after the incident. Evidence such as photos of the scene, witness testimony, and contact information of all parties involved will help your personal injury attorney justify compensation when it comes time to build your case.
3. Seek Guidance from a Personal Injury Lawyer Near You
Car accidents are not always open-and-shut cases, so its important to have someone on your side that you can trust.
At Hoffman Law Firm, we assist individuals throughout Charleston and Georgetown by providing expert legal guidance and support during every stage of their claim. We want you to know that you don’t have to face this process alone, nor should you have to.
Don’t Let a Minor Accident Become a Major Legal Nightmare–Contact Hoffman Law Firm Today
Don’t let a minor fender bender become a legal nightmare!
Our personal injury law firm proudly advocates for accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. As the locals’ trusted personal injury law firm, we have extensive experience handling a wide range of cases.
We have established a reputation for success and excellent service! To meet with a member of our team, schedule your free consultation today. We are here to help!
