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(314) 500-HURTWhether a collision was “minor” does not always dictate your legal needs. If you were
injured, have lost income, suffered property damage, or have experienced any psychological or emotional pain and
suffering, you are legally entitled to financial compensation to offset your losses – even if these losses occurred
due to a fender bender.
Furthermore, there are often numerous parties involved in a seemingly minor car accident
claim: you, your insurance company, the other driver, his/her insurance party, and more. The claim process can be
more complicated than you imagine, which is another reason to consult a St. Louis car accident
lawyer.
The term “minor car accident” really is a misnomer. If any losses occurred, then it was
indeed a serious accident. Here are some common mistakes we see people making after so-called minor car accidents:
Out of some social obligation, some drivers who either were or were not at fault will
get out of their cars and walk over to the other driver and apologize. If you weren’t at fault, why imply that you
were? Even if the crash was your fault, don’t say anything until you’ve spoken to a lawyer. Insurance companies will
use anything against you, including what you perceive as a gesture of kindness.
Car accidents
always need to be reported in Missouri. By calling 911, the
dispatcher can ask you the necessary questions to determine what you need and how to proceed. At the very minimum,
have the record of the 911 call being made. If anyone is potentially hurt, calling 911 is also the fastest way to
get EMTs out to examine everyone as well. It’s important to mention that leaving the scene of any car accident is
illegal and a legal mistake to boot. Don’t forget that police can be witnesses and can write a thorough report of
the collision. On the other hand, always review the police report as soon as possible and notify the police of any
discrepancies you notice right away.
After a relatively minor crash, your injuries might allow you to gather evidence following the accident. However,
again, out of a misguided sense of politeness, some drivers fail to take pictures and videos at the scene of the
accident. Get the driver’s information. Get the insurance information. Get the vehicle’s information. Document not
just the damage to the vehicles but injuries (or lack thereof), skidmarks, roadway conditions, lighting, weather,
and anything else you see of interest. It can help you down the road.
Many injuries do not immediately manifest at the scene of a car accident. It’s not
uncommon for an injury like whiplash, for example, to not become evident until hours later or even the next day.
Always get checked out by a medical professional after an accident, and, even more importantly, follow up with your
physician’s recommendations. If they recommend x-rays or a neck collar, then be sure to follow through.
Attempting to settle a car accident claim without professional assistance poses
significant risks for individuals navigating the complexities of insurance negotiations and legal processes. Here’s
why seeking legal representation is essential:
The risks of trying to settle a car accident claim alone include undervalued
settlements, vulnerability to insurance company tactics, and inadequate legal strategies. Seeking professional
representation ensures a fair assessment of damages, protection from legal pitfalls, and a stronger position
throughout the claims process.
Hiring a car accident lawyer is typically free for injury victims. Our car accident
attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if they secure a settlement or win the case in
court. This arrangement allows accident victims to access legal representation without upfront costs, making it an
accessible option for those seeking compensation for their injuries and damages, even after a seemingly minor
crash.
If you were involved in a minor car accident and suffered any injuries and losses,
Burger Law can assist you in learning your rights and assessing your case. Having the right legal representation can
often increase your settlement to cover all your past and future losses. Our fees come directly from your
settlement, and you pay nothing if we don’t win.
Call our St. Louis car accident attorneys at 314-500-HURT (4878) or use our online
contact form to set up your free case evaluation.
Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO
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