Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident?
Car accidents are common in the U.S., Kentucky not being an exception. According to statistics, in 2022, the number of police-reported accidents was almost six million. Some of these collisions were minor, resulting only in property damage or minor or no injuries. If you were in a seemingly minor car accident in Kentucky, you might wonder whether it is necessary to contact an attorney. So, should you contact an attorney after a minor car accident in Kentucky? While a minor car accident may not require legal assistance, it’s best to contact a lawyer after a seemingly minor accident. Not contacting an attorney can be detrimental in the end. Read on to learn more.
Vital Facts About Minor Accidents
Not taking particular steps after a seemingly minor accident can be a huge mistake. One vital step after a car accident, even one that seems minor, is to contact the police. Under Kentucky law, KRS 189.635(4), drivers are required to report their accident to the police if the accident results in over $500 in property damage, injury, and/or death. Failing to report such an accident can result in legal consequences.
After a car accident, it might seem your injuries are minor or you are uninjured. However, this might not be the case. After a car accident, adrenaline can mask pain and injuries. Also, it may be impossible to tell the full extent of property damage without professional evaluation. For these reasons, it is best to notify the police of your accident, even if it seems minor.
It is also best to seek prompt medical attention after a minor accident. Even if you believe your injuries are minor or you are unharmed, you should see a doctor. It’s possible to suffer severe injuries in a seemingly minor accident. You have a higher chance of recovering quickly if you receive the necessary medical treatment immediately after the accident. If you don’t seek immediate medical attention, your injuries may worsen, prolonging recovery.
Finally, as mentioned earlier in this article, it is best to contact an attorney after a seemingly minor accident. A minor accident may seem like nothing to worry about. However, what if it turns out that you suffered severe injuries or significant property damage due to another party’s fault? In such a case, an attorney can help you with your insurance or legal claim. They can protect your rights throughout the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. The at-fault party’s insurance company might try to undervalue or devalue your claim, but an attorney can help you fight. They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and gather evidence to support your case. If your case results in unforeseen complications, such as disputes over fault, a lawyer can help you navigate these challenges much easier.
Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer
When looking for a lawyer after a Kentucky car accident, look for, among others, the following qualities;
- Experience and expertise: Choose someone experienced in handling car accident cases in Kentucky.
- Proven track record: An attorney with a proven track record increases your chances of achieving a successful outcome.
- Convenient location: The lawyer’s office should be conveniently located for times when you need to visit it.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced London & Southeast Kentucky auto accident attorneys at Cessna & George Law Firm for legal help.
Source:
forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/car-accident-statistics/#:~:text=Car%20accidents%20are%20a%20fact%20of%20life.%20In%202022%2C%20a%20total%20of%2042%2C514%20fatal%20car%20accidents%20occurred%20on%20roadways%20across%20the%20United%20States.%20Another%201%2C664%2C598%20crashes%20resulted%20in%20injuries%20and%20
