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When you’re in a car accident, it will probably feel like a big deal even if it was a small fender bender. You might be able to walk away with nothing more than a few bruises, but you may already be worrying about insurance issues and paying for any repairs. So what exactly is the difference between a minor and a major car accident?
There is no precise definition for minor and major car accidents. The difference between these two types of accidents is a matter of scale: the extent of the injuries sustained, how much damage there was to your car, and how much money it will take to resolve the claim. A seasoned Long Island car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and get a fair settlement for your losses.
Based in Melville, The Odierno Law Firm represents injury victims throughout Long Island. For each case, our goal is to help our client get the highest possible recovery. To learn more or to schedule a free initial consultation, give our law office a call.
What is Considered a Minor Car Accident?
Generally, minor car accidents occur at low speeds and result in minimal property damage and injuries. These types of car crashes usually involve low levels of impact. Examples of property damage in minor car accidents include:
- A broken headlight or taillight
- Cracked windshield
- A small dent
- Scraped paint
For example, a driver is backing out of his driveway at a low speed and bumps into a car that is parked directly across from his driveway. Both his car and the other vehicle have tiny dents, and he doesn’t have any injuries. This type of low-speed, low-impact accident can almost certainly be classified as minor.
Injuries from a minor car accident are typically minimal as well, such as a few bruises or sore muscles. That being said, even relatively minor car accident injuries can become more serious if the injury victim does not receive prompt medical attention. If you don’t get treatment for a common soft tissue injury like whiplash, for example, it could become worse over time.
What is Considered a Major Car Accident?
Major accidents usually occur at higher rates of speed and involve much higher impacts. They can result in property damage that is significant enough that the car is no longer drivable, such as one side of the car being completely smashed. More importantly, major car accidents are associated with serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Burns
- Multiple broken bones
A major car accident can often cause life-changing injuries that can lead to permanent disabilities. It is critical that you seek medical attention immediately after a car crash that involves these types of injuries.
When Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident on Long Island?
If you were involved in a minor accident, you might not need to hire a personal injury lawyer. Because New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, your own auto insurance will typically pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other qualifying expenses up to your policy limit, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you will still need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to recover compensation for property damage.
However, if your injuries worsen over time or if you have suffered from severe injuries, such as those listed above, then you should consult an attorney as soon as possible. In New York, car accident victims may file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver if their damages exceed $50,000 in no-fault coverage or their injuries meet the state’s serious injury threshold.
Importantly, unlike in standard car accident insurance claims, damages in personal injury claims aren’t limited to just property damage or medical bills. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to money for:
- Reduced earning capacity
- Future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
While you aren’t required to hire an attorney to handle your claim, keep in mind that the insurance company isn’t on your side. Whatever settlement they offer you will almost certainly be a lowball amount. Talking to a New York car accident lawyer is the best way to understand the types of damages you may be able to recover and to get a better sense of how you can proceed with a claim.
At The Odierno Law Firm, we handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that we never charge you a fee upfront, and you only pay attorney’s fees if we recover money for you. Reach out to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.
What to Do After Any Car Accident on Long Island
Even if your accident seems minor, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health, your insurance coverage, and your legal rights if issues arise later.
1. Ensure safety and call the police if required:
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Contact law enforcement if anyone is injured or killed, property damage exceeds $1,000, or a vehicle is unsafe to drive. A police report creates an official record for insurance and legal purposes.
2. Gather essential information:
- Exchange names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details with all drivers involved.
- Collect contact information for witnesses.
3. Document the accident scene:
- Take clear photos of the vehicles involved, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Note the time, date, location, and circumstances of the accident.
4. Notify your insurance company promptly:
- Even if injuries seem minor, contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the accident and start your no-fault (PIP) or property damage claim.
5. Seek medical attention within 30 days:
- To qualify for PIP coverage, you generally must receive medical care and file a no-fault claim within 30 days of the accident.
6. Keep detailed records:
- Save medical bills, repair estimates, receipts, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
- Maintain a timeline of medical treatment and expenses to protect your rights if future claims arise.
Following these steps ensures you are prepared if injuries develop, costs exceed PIP limits, or disputes occur with insurers. Taking these actions, even after a minor crash, can make a significant difference in protecting yourself and your recovery.
If You Suffered Significant Injuries in a Long Island Car Accident, We Can Help.
Whether you have been in a minor or severe car accident, it is important to understand your rights and next steps. At The Odierno Law Firm, our experienced personal injury attorneys represent accident victims throughout Long Island. We work hard to ensure that our clients get the money that they deserve for their losses. To learn more or to schedule a free case evaluation, call our law office at 631-933-1304 or fill out our online contact form.
See Also:
Other Insurance Company Denied Accident Claim: What Now?
How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Respond to a Claim?
