A minor car accident may seem like just an inconvenience. However, even minor crashes can result in injuries, unexpected bills, and insurance disputes. If you were involved in a minor car accident in Shreveport, you may be wondering whether you should hire a lawyer. Keep reading to learn about some of the factors you should consider when you make your decision.
What Counts as a “Minor” Car Accident?
A “minor” car accident usually refers to the apparent severity of the crash.
These accidents typically involve:
- Low-speed collisions
- Minimal vehicle damage
- No obvious injuries at the scene
- Vehicles that can still be driven
Even so, a minor accident should not be ignored. Some injuries may not appear until hours or days later, and insurance claims can become more complicated than expected.
When Should You Consider Hiring a Shreveport Car Accident Lawyer?
Not every minor car accident requires hiring a lawyer. However, certain issues can make a claim more complicated and increase the value of having a lawyer on your side.
You Have Injuries, Even If They Seem Minor
One of the most common reasons to consult a Shreveport car accident lawyer is that you were injured. Some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days after a crash, even if the accident initially seems minor.
Common delayed injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
One of the most important steps to take after being in a car wreck is to get a medical evaluation to protect your health and document any injuries. A lawyer can then help you pursue compensation for medical expenses and any future treatment.
Fault Is Disputed
Determining who caused an accident is not always straightforward. Louisiana follows a modified comparative fault system, so if you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you generally cannot recover compensation from another at-fault party.
Fault disputes can significantly affect the value of your claim. If fault is not clear, a lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work to establish what happened.
The Insurance Company Offers Less Than You Expect
Insurance companies often try to resolve claims quickly. An early settlement offer may not fully reflect the value of your losses.
A low settlement offer may fail to account for:
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Other accident-related losses
Every case is different, and there is no standard settlement amount for a minor car accident. It is important to understand what rights you may be giving up before accepting a settlement. A lawyer can evaluate your damages, explain what compensation may be available under Louisiana law, and negotiate for fair compensation when appropriate.
Your Claim Is Delayed or Denied
Even relatively simple accident claims do not always proceed smoothly. Delays and denials can make the claims process difficult to navigate.
You may benefit from speaking with a lawyer if:
- The insurance company stops responding
- You are repeatedly asked for additional information
- Your claim is denied
- The insurer refuses to explain its decision
- The insurer engages in bad faith
A Shreveport car accident lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and work to keep your claim moving forward.
Your Accident Is More Complicated Than It First Appeared
Determining who is legally responsible can become much more complicated in certain situations. Accidents involving more than two drivers, commercial vehicles, or rideshare services can require untangling multiple layers of insurance coverage. A crash with an uninsured or underinsured driver may require alternative avenues for compensation.
Identifying every potentially responsible party can affect the compensation available to you. A lawyer can investigate the accident and determine who may be legally liable.
Contact a Shreveport Car Accident Lawyer at Desiah Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
The decisions you make after a minor car accident can affect your health and legal rights. While not every accident requires a lawyer, consulting one may be worthwhile if you were injured, fault is disputed, or the insurance company is not treating you fairly.
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Desiah Injury Lawyers at the nearest location for a consultation.
Desiah Injury Lawyers – Shreveport Office
333 Texas St Suite Suite 1300, Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 252-3034
Desiah Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
201 St Charles Ave #2500, New Orleans, LA 70170
(504) 553 3047
