Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident in California? (2024)

Although most people do their best to avoid them, car accidents happen every day. Getting into a collision can cause serious issues for your health, finances, and family. Because of this, it is important to have an action plan so that you know what to do if you get into a car accident.

Hiring a Sacramento car accident lawyer is an important part of most car accidents. Having legal representation can help you navigate the complicated process of filing a claim and resolving any outstanding issues associated with your accident. Even the most minor car accidents can benefit from the help of an experienced attorney.

If you are involved in a “fender-bender” or minor car collision, you should contact a legal professional right away. Although the accident may seem small, the impact may be significant.

Should I Get A Lawyer For A Minor Car Accident In California

California Is an At-Fault State

One of the largest reasons to hire an attorney is that California is a fault state for car accidents. This means that both parties involved in the accident file their insurance claims with the insurance of the person who was responsible. For example, if Driver A caused the accident, both Driver A and Driver B would get money from Driver A’s insurance company to pay for the damages.

Although this is a common setup for insurance, it can cause issues for drivers after collisions. If one driver was not clearly at fault, or did not take responsibility for what happened, the two insurance companies will often argue for a long time about who needs to pay. This leaves the matter undecided while the companies determine what should happen.

Insurance Companies and Legal Representation

Although many people want to believe that their insurance company exists to help them, in reality, they are businesses first and foremost. Their profits are their top priority, and many companies will use predatory techniques to avoid paying for car accidents. Because of this, it is unwise to speak with insurance companies on your own. They will likely ask you leading questions or try to get you to admit fault, even if you are not guilty. Insurance companies do this regardless of the severity of the accident or the size of the payout. Victims of minor accidents can easily fall prey to insurance companies.

When you have an attorney on your side, we can speak to insurance companies on your behalf. When we give your statement, we can be sure to evade all tricks and traps that insurance companies use. Because we have significant experience doing this, we can easily identify and avoid all insurance company tactics. This allows us to preserve your claim.

Minor Car Accidents and Personal Injury Claims

Most people assume that damage and injuries only occur in major car accidents, but this is far from the truth. Even minor car accidents can lead to serious and lasting injuries that can affect your entire life. Common injuries in minor car accidents include:

  • Whiplash
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Lacerations
  • Burns or cuts from the seatbelt
  • Concussions

These can be serious injuries under the right conditions. Regardless of their severity, each of these injuries requires urgent medical care. If you did not cause the collision, you should not be responsible for the medical costs associated with your injuries.

Personal injury claims allow you to seek compensation from the responsible party for damage that they have caused through negligent actions. This compensation can help you pay for your medical bills, damage, and other costs beyond what the insurance company will cover.

Even minor car accidents can result in personal injury claims. When you have an attorney on your side, we can help you develop your personal injury claim after a car accident.

FAQs

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident in California?

A: Yes. Even minor car accidents can cause significant legal headaches. Having an attorney on your side to represent you can help you navigate the aftermath of these events. They can ensure that you get the most from your settlement. If you have a personal injury claim, an attorney can help you develop your case and achieve further compensation if it is appropriate. Having an attorney greatly increases your chances of receiving financial support.

Q: What Do You Do in a Minor Car Accident in California?

A: For a minor car accident in California, behave as you would in any other collision scenario. Exchange license and insurance information with the other driver and take photos of any damage and injuries. Note the names and contact information for any eyewitnesses. Do not apologize or admit fault in any way, even if you were responsible. Call your attorney right away to take the next steps.

Q: How Much Does a Car Accident Attorney Cost?

A: All attorneys charge differently for their legal services. It is important to speak to individual lawyers about their costs before you hire them. They may charge an hourly rate or take a percentage of your settlement. Having a clear conversation about cost can help eliminate stress from your case. It can also ensure that you can afford your attorney’s services for the duration of your claim.

Q: Should I Call the Police for a Minor Car Accident?

A: If there are no immediate injuries or significant property damage, you do not need to call law enforcement after an accident. However, if there is debris or potential injuries, it is best to call 911. The operator can help to assess the situation and determine whether officers or medics need to be dispatched to the scene of the accident. In many minor car accident cases, however, police presence is not necessary.

Contact Kreeger Law Firm

Our team has been representing clients after minor car accidents for many years. We know how difficult these situations can feel and how easy it is to feel overwhelmed. With our expert attorneys on your side, you can navigate your car accident claim with confidence. You can feel assured that you have done everything you can to protect your family, finances, and future.

To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact Kreeger Law Firm online.