Car accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions that result in serious injuries or death. When they occur, they can have significant and lasting impacts. If you’ve been in a car accident, you may wonder if your injuries are severe enough to file a lawsuit.
A Sand Law attorney can tell you whether or not it will be worth it to take legal action against the at-fault driver. If it is, we’ll provide you with the aggressive representation you’ll need to obtain maximum compensation.
If you would like a free evaluation of your case, please don’t hesitate to call 701-609-1510 or contact us online.
What are the Most Common Outcomes of Car Accidents?
There were more than 5.2 million car accidents in the U.S. in 2020. Of those, about 3.6 million collisions resulted in property damage only. About another 1.6 million led to injuries. There were 35,766 fatal crashes.
Some of the most common outcomes of car accidents include the following:
- Property damage: Thankfully, most car wrecks fall under the “fender bender.” Yes, they’re frustrating. Yes, they can cause significant property damage. But there are no injuries involved.
- Minor injuries: These can include cuts, bruises, and sprains. While these injuries may not require extensive medical treatment, they can still result in pain and discomfort for the victim.
- Moderate injuries: Moderate injuries can include broken bones, severe cuts, and head injuries. These injuries often require medical treatment and may result in lasting disabilities or limitations.
- Severe injuries: These are debilitating injuries. They include spinal cord damage, internal injuries, brain damage, amputations, burns, etc. These injuries can be life-altering and may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Death: Unfortunately, car accidents can sometimes be fatal. When a driver, passenger, or pedestrian dies in a car accident, it can have devastating and far-reaching impacts on their loved ones.
How to Tell if Your Accident is Serious
After a car accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential, even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt. Concussions, whiplash, and other injuries may not present immediate symptoms. However, they can cause significant pain and complications later on.
If you experience any of the following symptoms after a car accident, you should seek medical attention right away:
- Loss of consciousness: If you lost consciousness during the accident or felt lightheaded or dizzy afterward, seek medical attention immediately.
- Severe pain: If you experience severe pain, especially in your head, neck, or back, it could be a sign of a severe injury.
- Difficulty breathing: Difficulty breathing could indicate a collapsed lung or a medical emergency.
- Headaches or dizziness: If you experience headaches or dizziness after a car accident, it could be a sign of a concussion or other traumatic brain injury.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately After a Crash, Even if You Think You Aren’t Injured
Even if you don’t experience these symptoms, seeking medical attention after a car accident is still essential. Your doctor can evaluate you for any underlying injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Any Injury Can Result in Damages
A “minor” injury is usually one that happens to someone else. In other words, it’s in the eye of the beholder. If someone else suffers a sprained wrist in a car wreck, you might consider that person relatively lucky. But if it happens to you, it will not only be painful; it could affect your everyday life.
For example, what if you use your hands for a living? What if it’s too painful for you to work? Even though most people say your injury isn’t severe, it is to you. That’s why you must speak with an attorney to protect your rights.
If You Have Damages to Recover, File a Lawsuit
If you’ve suffered an injury in a car accident, you may want to know if you should file a lawsuit to recover damages. In general, you may want to consider filing a lawsuit if:
Your injuries are serious
If you’ve suffered severe injuries that require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation or result in lasting disabilities or limitations, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
You’re unable to work
If your injuries prevent you from working or significantly impact your ability to earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
You’re facing significant medical expenses.
You should consider taking legal action against the at-fault driver if you’ve started to accumulate substantial medical expenses. Filing a lawsuit could pay for not only your current expenses but any other medical bills resulting from ongoing treatment.
The other driver was at fault
If the other driver was responsible for the accident, you might be able to recover damages from them or their insurance company. However, if you were partially at fault for the accident, your ability to recover damages may be limited or reduced.
We highly recommend you speak with a car accident lawyer if you have significant injuries or damages. Insurance companies will try to settle for as little as possible, and an experienced lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Who Doesn’t Need to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
While it’s generally a good idea to speak with a car accident lawyer if you’ve been injured in a collision, there are some situations where you may not need one. For example:
- You only suffered minor injuries: If you only suffered minor injuries, such as cuts or bruises, and your medical bills are relatively low, you may not need a lawyer.
- Liability is clear: If the other driver was clearly at fault for the accident, liability might not be in question. You may not need legal representation.
- You’re not seeking significant damages: You can probably handle the claim independently if your damages aren’t substantial.
- You’re comfortable negotiating with the insurance company: If you feel comfortable negotiating with the insurance company, you may not need a lawyer.
Contact Sand Law to Speak with an Experienced Fargo Car Accident Lawyer
Speak with a seasoned car accident attorney if you’ve been in a car accident and have damages to recover. At Sand Law, we have a team of experienced lawyers who can help you get the compensation you deserve. We understand the complexities of car accident cases and will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf. Contact us online or call 701-609-1510 to schedule a free consultation.