Separating Minor Accidents From Major Accidents

When you consider car accidents, you will find a wide variety of circumstances. The words minor and major, when it comes to accidents, apply to more than one factor. Your injuries are just the beginning of determining the seriousness of an accident. It's important to understand the differences in minor and major accidents because they will influence how likely you are to benefit from professional legal help. Read on to learn more.

Minor Accidents

What is classified as a minor accident has to do with injuries, but there is far more to it than that. Most of the factors revolve around insurance coverage. If the at-fault driver's insurance company will adequately cover and compensate you for your damages, you might not need to seek help from an attorney. These types of accidents usually fall into these categories:

1. The fault for the accident is clear and not in contention.
2. No medical treatment was necessary for either party, either right away or several weeks later.
3. The at-fault party had adequate insurance to cover the repair of replacement of the vehicles.
4. No work was missed as a result of the accident.
5. No mental trauma has been experienced by either party.

You May Need an Attorney

The above factors are somewhat narrow and may not apply to your accident. In that case, you will probably need an attorney. Personal injury attorneys can help accident claimants even when the accident seems to be relatively minor. For example, you may have minor physical injuries but are experiencing severe anxiety about driving a car. If you are unable to work due to this issue, you are losing financial security every day. Keep in mind that you may need to seek legal help if:

1. You are unable to deal with the insurance claim without help.
2. The other side is claiming that you are partially at-fault.
3. You missed a day or two of work and the other side is refusing to compensate you.
4. You are having problems getting the insurance carrier for the at-fault driver to pay you for your needs.

Major Accidents

When you are involved in a major accident, you probably recognize the need for an attorney. Major accidents may demonstrate these factors:

1. More than two vehicles were involved.
2. You are being counter-sued.
3. You are being told that your injuries are the result of a previous accident or medical disorder.
4. Claims have been outright denied.
5. You have been offered a settlement. (You usually need to seek an attorney's advice before accepting an offer to ensure that you are not leaving money on the table.)
6. Your injuries are severe and/or permanent.
7. You will need future medical care.
8. You may never be able to return to your job.

Speak to an auto injury lawyer to learn more.