The term “fender bender” is a colloquialism people use to refer to a seemingly small accident that causes minor injuries to the vehicles involved. But in legal terms, it’s an accident. And all accidents should be taken seriously.
Even a minor bump that caused little damage to your car could cause damage to your body if you were jerked suddenly or if you were turning to look over your shoulder at the time. The spine and neck are very delicate and can be easily injured. Don’t take any accident lightly.
What to do immediately after a minor accident
Take your own pictures of the scene, the other driver, any passengers of the cars involved, the license plates, and the insurance information and ID of the other driver. Ask how everyone is feeling. Do not take blame or apologize, and do not become angry and yell at the other driver.
If you have been involved in an accident in Florida, even if it seems like a minor fender bender, we recommend that you call the police to come to the scene. Yes, it takes time, but it could be important in the future to have had a police officer record everything on location. Florida law requires that you call the police if the accident involves injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Almost any damage will exceed $500, so it’s best to call the police if you have an accident. Even if you do not, you should report the accident to the police within 10 days. Failure to report the accident within the deadline could restrict your right to compensation later.
Get a medical checkup within 14 days of the accident to be able to receive compensation under PIP through your car insurance. Injuries sometimes do not manifest within the first couple of days after an accident, especially strains or twists involving the spine. Any new aches, pains, headaches, digestive changes, sleep changes, or symptoms of any kind should be mentioned to the doctor. An injury to the spine, neck, or head can easily manifest itself anywhere in the body.
How a lawyer can help you
A personal injury attorney is an expert in all aspects of auto accidents, auto insurance, and injuries sustained from accidents of all kinds. We know how to deal with insurance companies, negotiate, and thoroughly investigate accidents to maximize compensation for your claims.
Usually, in a fender bender, the car remains drivable, but that does not mean the repairs will be inexpensive. Given the cost of parts and labor, depending on the age and value of the car, the insurance company may want to total your vehicle and send you a check. But would that check be enough to replace your vehicle? Probably not. Your attorney can discuss your options and preferences with you and then negotiate with the insurance company to provide you with the money for repairs or sufficient compensation.
More importantly, your attorney would be there to help you with any medical complications that require compensation. PIP coverage is limited to only 80% of medical expenses up to $10,000. With the cost of medical services, insurance co-pays, and deductibles, your injuries could significantly surpass that amount.
Your attorney could help you by negotiating with the hospital and medical providers to discount your bill and by negotiating with the health insurance company to cover more medical costs. Your attorney can also initiate a personal injury lawsuit to cover your losses from injuries, lost wages, and property damage if your injuries and expenses are significant.
If you have recently been involved in a fender bender or any vehicular accident anywhere in Florida, contact The Quackenbush Law Firm at (954) 448-7288, 24/7, for a free consultation to see how we can help you. As experts in auto accidents and auto insurance, we can help you protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and get you the compensation you deserve.