A car accident can occur at any time. In 2022, there were 148 fatalities in California caused by distracted driving alone. If you’re involved in an accident, you may wonder, should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident? The experienced team at The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani specializes in helping clients deal with the aftermath of accidents, from minor fender benders to major pileups.
Aftermath of a Car Accident
Even if a car accident is minor, it has the potential to cause a range of issues for everyone involved. Here are some of the most common examples of the aftermath people deal with when they’re involved in a car accident.
Physical injuries
Although some car accidents are minor, they may still cause a range of physical injuries. Some of the most common injuries victims face are cuts, bruises, and whiplash. However, these injuries can become more severe over time and cause lingering issues like headaches and neck or back pain. In some cases, traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or even spinal cord injuries can result from a vehicle accident.
Psychological impacts
Any type of car accident can be traumatic for people, regardless of the severity. The event may lead to several psychological issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Many people start to become fearful of driving, or they may become irritable or have severe mood swings. Others might have difficulty sleeping or become withdrawn from friends, family members, or coworkers due to the stress and anxiety the accident caused.
Delayed physical effects
Even if you don’t feel pain immediately following a car accident, it doesn’t mean that you won’t suffer from the aftermath later. Some people don’t feel soreness or pain for one or several days following a car accident. Others may have more serious underlying issues that don’t present as pain, but that can cause health problems later if a medical doctor does not treat them.
Lost wages
Aside from the physical and mental aftermath of being involved in a car accident, many victims may end up losing money, too. You may lose wages if your main mode of transportation is totaled, leaving you without a way to get to work. Losing time at work means losing money, and in some cases, it could even mean losing your job altogether.
Signs You Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident
So, when should you get a lawyer for a car accident? Here are some signs that you should contact a lawyer immediately after a car accident instead of trying to handle it alone.
- Property damage: From vehicles to structures, it’s always a good idea to hire a lawyer if any property damage occurs due to the accident.
- Injuries: An experienced attorney should handle all forms of injuries, from minor to major.
- Defective parts: If a defective part, such as a blown-out tire or malfunctioning brakes, caused the car accident, you should contact a lawyer immediately.
- The other driver was uninsured: When the other driver has no insurance, you must hire a lawyer to help you work to get the compensation you deserve.
- The accident involved a commercial vehicle: If it involved a large commercial truck or other commercial vehicle, hiring a lawyer to help with your case is advisable.
- Multiple parties were involved: When an accident involves more than two vehicles, a lawyer is needed to handle these complex cases.
Benefits of Retaining a Car Accident Lawyer
Regardless of the severity, there are many benefits to retaining a car accident lawyer.
Lawyers know your rights
An experienced car accident lawyer has a solid understanding of your state’s motor vehicle accident laws and rights. Hiring legal counsel helps you navigate the complex landscape associated with car accident cases. Your attorney can help to determine who was at fault, understand liability, and more. Their main goal is to protect and fight for your rights as a victim of a car accident.
You’ll get sound advice
After your accident, you’ll likely get all kinds of advice from friends and other people. However, only an experienced lawyer can advise you on handling your case. Your lawyer is there to guide you through the correct channels to help you make sound, informed decisions. They’ll also work to ensure you avoid common problems that could jeopardize your claim.
You can negotiate a fair settlement
If you’re attempting to settle with the other party or parties involved in the accident, you need a skilled lawyer by your side. Your lawyer knows how to handle vital information like police reports, medical records, proof of damages, and more. This evidence must be presented during your case to help you get a fair settlement and adequate compensation. Without a lawyer, you won’t know how, what, or when to present to the court to ensure you get what you deserve.
Legal Timelines and Deadlines to Consider
In the state of California, there are several important legal timelines and deadlines to consider after a car accident.
- Personal injury claims: If you plan to file a lawsuit, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date.
- Government entities: If a government entity was involved, the agency must be notified within six months of the accident. If they reply in 45 days, you have six months to file — otherwise, you have two years.
- Minors: When a minor is involved in a car accident, the statute of limitations can be paused until the minor turns 18.
- Property damage claims: The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for property damage claims is three years from the accident date.
Contact The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani Today
The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani have extensive experience dealing with all types of car accidents. We have over 25 years of experience helping clients with no upfront or hidden fees. If you need representation after a car accident, call (888) 912-7115 to set up your no-cost case evaluation today!