Whether they happen at high or low speeds, car crashes can be devastating for the victims and their families. As you will see in this article, even minor accidents can be responsible for painful injuries. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm invite you to keep reading as we discuss more about injuries caused by minor car accidents in the state of Pennsylvania.
What Constitutes a “Minor” Car Accident?
People mostly associate car accidents with over the top, high-speed collisions. While this might be true to some extent, not all car accidents are as catastrophic. Low-speed crashes or minor car accidents can also cause severe injuries.
Minor car accidents include collisions at low speeds. The most common example of this type of low-speed crash is the widely known “fender-bender.” However, don’t be fooled into believing low-speed crashes do not cause any health issues. As we discuss further, even minor accidents are capable of producing long-term, painful injuries.
Common Causes of Minor Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
There are several reasons for minor car accidents. A common cause of this type of accidents is what is tailgating. Tailgating is any time when a motorist drives too closely behind another vehicle. When a driver does not keep a safe distance between him and the car in front, it could lead to a rear-end collision.
Minor car accidents also frequently happen when a person backs up from their parking spot, or even their own garage or driveway. These types of crashes may also involve pedestrians. In some cases, backing-up accidents can cause mild injuries. However, things can take a dramatic turn when the victim is an elderly citizen or a minor.
What Are the Most Common Injuries After Minor Car Accidents?
As stated, even low-speed crashes can cause severe personal injuries to a driver. For instance, one of the most common injuries reported by car accident victims is whiplash. Whiplash happens when a driver experiences a sudden, forceful back and forth movement of the head. As a result of such trauma, people can injure muscles and tendons around the neck resulting in whiplash.
This type of injury usually develops by the next day after the accident, but it sometimes takes longer. Common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, dizziness, pins and needles sensations, and other painful and uncomfortable symptoms. It is always best to get checked by a doctor who can treat any neck injury after a car crash.
Other types of injuries that can happen after a minor accident are back injuries. For instance, a rear-end collision can cause injuries to the mid-section or lower back areas. People can also experience herniated or slipped discs. Pads of tissue called “discs” act as a cushion between the vertebrae, protecting the spine. Herniated discs can cause a lot of pain, and, in severe cases, they may require surgery. Additionally, if you had any previous spinal injuries, your condition could worsen after an accident, even at low speed.
What Should I Do After a Minor Car Accident?
After a serious car accident stopping should be the first thing to do. Do not attempt to flee or abandon the crash scene. If you flee the scene of an accident, you could be charged with a hit-and-run. Hit and run charges are severe, especially if there are injury victims involved. If you get convicted, you can face jail time and fines.
While experiencing an accident may be shocking and overwhelming, you should, to the best of your ability, get yourself and any other people involved to a safe spot. By doing so, you are taking the necessary measures to prevent another potential accident. Another part of being proactive is seeking immediate medical help if you or another party needs it. Keeping your health in check should be one of your main priorities.
Calling the cops is also essential after an accident. Generally, the police will make a report based on the accident, which can be useful when you try to file a claim with your insurance company. Once the police officer arrives at the scene, make sure to report as many details as you can. Also, make sure the other party’s statement is accurate. Again, the story produced by the police is vital for obtaining coverage from your insurance. Report your accident to your insurance company after complying with everything the investigating officer requires so you can to start receiving your insurance benefits as soon as possible.
Contacting a car accident attorney is crucial to make sure you get adequately compensated for your accident. Often, insurance companies will offer certain compensation for any medical expenses or losses. However, these offers may be miles away from the payment you would otherwise obtain if you file a lawsuit. Do not accept any low-ball offers until you have consulted with your lawyer first.
Minor Car Accident Attorneys Serving Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you or your loved one was injured in a minor car accident, don’t wait another minute. Don’t accept any offer from the at-fault party or their insurance company before consulting with a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer first. To schedule a free, confidential consultation about your case, call The Reiff Law Firm today at (215) 709-6940.
