When “Minor” Car Accidents Lead to Major Injuries

When a vehicle collision occurs at low speeds, and there is little damage or no damage done to either of the cars involved, it can be easy to shrug it off as a “minor” accident. However, these seemingly minor accidents can result in major injuries that victims may not even realize they sustained at the time.

Any time you are in a car accident in Springfield, Illinois, you should take it seriously by documenting the scene and getting checked out by a medical professional. This can significantly impact your future auto insurance claim and the compensation you could receive through it.

Serious Injuries Caused By “Minor” Crashes

Even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries if your vehicle was struck just right or if you already suffered from a pre-existing condition. Many of these injuries also develop symptoms over time, making it difficult to identify them immediately after the accident.

Common injuries our attorneys frequently see following minor crashes include:

• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries can be caused by sudden jolts, such as those experienced in a low-speed rear-end collision. These injuries affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and can worsen over time as inflammation occurs.
• Back and spinal injuries, including herniated discs and pinched nerves, can occur even when significant forces aren’t present.
• Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries may result from a blow to the head or violent shaking following an accident. Many victims believe their head injuries are minor until they begin experiencing more severe symptoms, like nausea, loss of motor function, and persistent headaches, as their brain bleeds and swells.

Challenges Victims of “Minor” Car Accidents Face

If you sustained injuries in a “minor” car accident, it can be challenging to get the insurance company to take your claim seriously. Because there is little to no damage to your vehicle, the insurance company may insist that your injuries cannot be as severe as you claim they are.

This could result in the insurance provider denying your claim or only offering a settlement well below your case’s actual value. The best way to maximize your compensation and protect your rights is to hire an experienced lawyer to handle your case.

The Importance of Seeking Medical Care for Injuries

Even if you initially feel fine after a “minor” car accident, it’s in your best interest to seek medical attention. This is because not every injury is immediately obvious, particularly to someone who isn’t a trained medical professional.

Seeking treatment can also benefit your case by having your injuries documented in your medical records. Proper medical documentation can make it easier to connect your injuries to the accident and demonstrate that your treatment was reasonable and necessary.

Why You Need Legal Support Following a “Minor” Car Accident

Insurance companies are always looking to deny claims or pay out as little as possible to accident victims. They regularly lowball victims, assuming that they won’t know the true value of their injuries.

By working with an experienced lawyer, you can protect yourself from being taken advantage of by the insurer. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance provider on your behalf and fight for your rights.

Contact Our Springfield, Illinois, Car Accident Lawyers

Holley, Rosen & Beard, LLC, is an established and well-respected law firm in Central Illinois. Our lawyers are committed to honesty and transparency, and make a point to build strong relationships with our clients.

If you were injured in a car accident in or around Springfield, Illinois, contact our firm today for a free initial consultation with an experienced member of our legal team. We’ll help you understand your rights and the process for seeking the compensation you need.