A car accident can be traumatic, no matter how minor or severe it may be. Understanding the differences between a minor and serious car accident injury can help you determine whether and how to proceed with a claim. Please continue reading to learn how a seasoned New York City Car Accident Lawyer can help you navigate your legal options during this difficult time.
What Are the Requirements for Reporting an Accident in New York?
Across the country, many states have laws that dictate when an individual must report a car accident. While there is no technical definition of a “minor car accident,” the resulting damage caused by the accident determines whether or not you need to report the collision.
Under New York’s Division of Motor Vehicles, you must file a report within 10 days of the accident if there is any injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. It’s also important to note that you are required to notify the police if you hit a parked car or a domestic animal. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to call the police at the accident scene. It can be difficult to estimate property damage or assess the physical harm done. Calling the police and filing a report will help to protect your rights and interests.
What’s the Difference Between a Minor and Serious Car Accident?
A good rule of thumb is to consider any auto accident a serious crash if it results in personal injury. Similar to property damage to your vehicle, it can be difficult to determine the full extent of your injuries without a medical assessment. Common injuries like whiplash have delayed onset symptoms that may not present themselves until hours, days, or even weeks after the incident. Therefore, it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible to ensure you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. It also will provide you with valuable documentation for your legal claim.
Following a fender bender, you will typically face minor damage. These accidents occur at low speeds, which leaves your vehicle in driveable condition after the incident. It’s crucial not to equate the level of damage done to your vehicle with injuries that may have occurred because of the collision. A minor car accident injury involves mild pain, bruising, or soreness, which requires minimal medical intervention and healing within a short period. A serious car accident injury, on the other hand, involves significant trauma, requiring immediate medical attention and potentially long-term care. Essentially, minor injuries are not life-threatening, whereas a serious injury can cause lasting impairment or disability.
At The Bàez Legal Group, we are prepared to help you fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.
