Yes—you should hire a lawyer after a minor car accident. No matter the severity of the collision, car accidents can be very stressful experiences. Oftentimes, people start to wonder if it’s necessary to hire a lawyer when the accident appears insignificant in their eyes.
Others may question if they should try to handle the legal side of things on their own. However, it is always worth retaining legal representation and speaking with a New York car accident lawyer because what may seem trivial at first could become more complicated later on.
Is It Worth Hiring a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident?
Yes, hiring a New York personal injury lawyer—even after a minor car accident—is worthwhile. Even though the crash may not seem too devastating at first, there are several issues that may arise in the aftermath of the collision, making things more complicated than they were originally.
Let’s look at some circumstances that could worsen over time.
Hidden Injuries
The symptoms of some injuries—such as whiplash or concussions—might not present themselves immediately after the accident. Instead, they may develop over time. These injuries can leave you with significant costly medical bills, which might be covered by a settlement offer.
Property Damage
Even minor accidents can result in costly repairs to your vehicle. Insurance companies may try to downplay the damage you sustained in an effort to minimize payouts, but a New York car accident attorney can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Insurance Disputes
Insurance companies are not always eager to pay out claims, even for small accidents. They may dispute liability, question the severity of your injuries, or offer a low settlement. Your legal counsel can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a fair amount.
Long-Term Consequences
Sometimes, minor accidents result in ongoing physical pain or long-term disabilities. Without a lawyer, you might accept the first offer the insurance company extends to you simply because you did not know that you can negotiate with insurance providers instead.
The long-term consequences of settling for less than you are rightfully owed mean you might not receive financial support for future medical expenses or suffering that you may experience later on. With us as your attorney, we can provide you with peace of mind by advocating for your rights.
Have You Been Injured In An Accident? Contact Morelli Law
877-751-9800Statute of Limitations if I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident
In New York, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim following a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. However, this length of time does not apply to every motor vehicle collision because there are exceptions.
For example, if the car accident involves a minor—meaning someone under the age of 18 years old—then the time limit is extended. The three-year statute of limitations will not start until the minor is of adult age, and the victim will have until his or her 21st birthday to file a lawsuit.
Let’s look at two other instances where the statute of limitations may differ from the default time frame.
No-Fault Insurance
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system. In other words, this means accident victims typically file claims with their own insurance first when minor injuries are involved. You have 30 days to file a no-fault claim before your rights to compensation are in jeopardy.
Government Entities
If the motor vehicle collision involves a government vehicle or agency, then specific rules apply to the claim-filing timeline. Victims must file a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident, and lawsuits must be filed within one year and 90 days of the crash.
What Can a Lawyer Do for Me After a Minor Car Accident?
A lawyer can provide valuable services after a minor car accident. The goal of legal counsel is to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive compensation for any damages or injuries you incurred as a direct result of the collision, even if the aftermath is not major.
Here are several ways a lawyer can assist you:
- Evaluate the details of your case
- Communicate with insurance companies
- Negotiate a settlement offer that is fair to you
- File a lawsuit and represent you in court
Contact our personal injury lawyers today
877-751-9800Reach Out to a New York Car Accident Law Firm Today
If you’ve been involved in a minor car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to the law firm of Morelli Law. We offer cost-free, no-obligation consultations for victims like you who want to build a case regarding your injuries and pursue compensation for the damages you incurred.
We can help you understand your rights, evaluate your case, and determine the course of action that makes the most sense for your situation. And remember—even minor car accidents are subject to a statute of limitations, so call now to learn more about us and what we can do.
Call or text 877-751-9800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form