Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?

Story by Joel Berly
January 2, 2025

Even minor car accidents can leave you shaken, stressed, and unsure of your next steps. If you’ve been involved in a low-impact auto accident, you might wonder whether hiring a personal injury lawyer is necessary. 

While not every car accident requires legal representation, even low-speed collisions can result in high repair costs or medical bills for injuries like whiplash. When seeking compensation, consulting a skilled attorney helps you understand the full value of your damages.

Learn why hiring a Charleston car accident lawyer is beneficial for a minor car crash and how our team at Berly Rouse can help you win the settlement you deserve.

What Counts as a Minor Car Accident?

A “minor” car collision typically results in little to no visible damage to the vehicles involved and non-serious or no apparent injuries to the occupants. These accidents are often referred to as fender benders and may occur at low speeds, such as in parking lots or at stoplights.

However, even seemingly slight accidents can have serious consequences, including: 

• Long-term injuries. Minor car accidents often lead to injuries like whiplash, causing chronic pain or limited mobility. One study found neck strain occurs in about 21% of low-speed collisions (under 10 mph).

• Hidden vehicle damage. Many drivers skip inspections after small-scale collisions, assuming visible dents are their only concern. Undetected issues like misaligned frames or damaged suspension can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs not covered in the original claim.

• Delayed symptoms.  Injuries like whiplash and concussions often don’t show immediate symptoms after a collision. When victims delay medical care, assuming they’re fine, they risk worsening injuries and losing documentation needed for insurance claims. 

When Should You Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Although you may be tempted to handle a minor car collision on your own, certain circumstances make hiring legal representation beneficial. Here are scenarios when it’s advisable to speak with a skilled car accident lawyer: 

You Suffered Injuries

Even minimal injuries can lead to medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment. If you’ve been injured in an accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you:

• Gather documentation like medical records or treatment logs to prove your injuries. 
• Collaborate with medical experts to assess the severity of your injuries and long-term care needs. 
• Pursue a personal injury claim if necessary.

The Insurance Company Denies or Undervalues Your Claim

Insurance adjusters may try to minimize the value of your claim or outright deny it, especially if there are no medical records or evidence from the scene. A personal injury lawyer has the experience to:

• Review your policy and the details of your accident.
• Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Provide an accurate estimate of your damages and negotiate for a fair settlement.

Liability Is Disputed

If the other driver disputes fault or the details of the accident are unclear, having an attorney on your side can be crucial. Car accident lawyers can:

• Investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage.
• Build a strong case to establish liability.
• Protect you from unfair blame that could reduce your compensation.

The Accident Involves Complicated Factors

Some car accidents, while inconsequential on the surface, involve complexities such as:

• Multiple vehicles
• Drivers without insurance
• Commercial vehicles or rideshare drivers

A qualified personal injury lawyer addresses these scenarios, using their legal expertise to determine who is liable and seek damages from all involved parties. 

What To Do After a Fender Bender in Charleston

After a car accident, take the following steps to protect your legal rights and properly document the incident. Whether it’s a parking lot scrape or a slow-speed rear-end collision, these actions can support a successful claim:

• Seek medical attention. Visit a doctor within 24 hours, even if you think you are not injured. A healthcare provider can help diagnose your injuries and provide medical documentation for insurance or legal claims. 

• File a police report. In South Carolina, accidents involving injuries or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to law enforcement. Even if you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or injuries, filing a report ensures an official record of the incident.

• Document the scene. Take clear photographs of the vehicle damage, the accident location, and any visible injuries. Whenever possible, do this before moving the vehicles to preserve critical evidence.

• Contact a car accident attorney. Before discussing the accident with insurance companies, speak with a knowledgeable attorney. They can protect your rights and ensure accurate claim documentation.

Protect Your Rights After a Minor Accident

Your actions after a seemingly trivial vehicle collision can have long-term implications. Before accepting an insurance settlement or dismissing your injuries as insignificant, talk with a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and options.

At Berly Rouse, we specialize in helping South Carolina residents manage the aftermath of auto accidents. Whether your case involves serious injuries or more complex issues, our experienced car accident lawyers can advocate for you. 
We have years of experience winning settlements for injured victims in Charleston. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovering the financial support you deserve.

Categories: Car Accident, Personal Injury