A fender bender in a parking lot. A low-speed bump in Houston traffic. On the surface, these incidents seem minor. You exchange insurance information, maybe even feel a little embarrassed by the hassle, and assume everything will be sorted out with a quick phone call. It’s easy to think, “It’s just a small crash; I don’t need a car crash lawyer for this.” But as many Texans have unfortunately discovered, even a seemingly minor accident can spiral into a major legal and financial nightmare.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure after a car crash, please know that you are not alone. It’s natural to want to minimize the situation and hope for a simple resolution. However, the reality is that insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their profits by paying out as little as possible. This is where a minor incident can become a major problem for you. At The Stano Law Firm, we’ve seen it happen time and again. We’re here to help you understand when that “small” accident requires the help of a dedicated legal professional.
The Hidden Dangers of a “Minor” Car Crash
It’s a mistake to judge the severity of an accident by the amount of vehicle damage. Modern cars are designed to absorb impact, and a pristine-looking bumper can hide underlying frame damage. More importantly, the human body is not designed to withstand the violent forces of a collision, even at low speeds. Here are the key reasons why you should never underestimate a minor crash.
1. Delayed-Onset Injuries
The adrenaline that floods your system during an accident can mask serious injuries. You might walk away from the scene feeling fine, only to wake up days or even weeks later with debilitating pain. Common delayed-onset injuries include:
Whiplash:A neck injury that can cause chronic pain, headaches, and dizziness.
Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains and strains in the back and shoulders that can lead to long-term mobility issues.
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even a slight jolt to the head can cause a concussion with lasting cognitive and emotional effects.
Herniated Discs: Damage to the spinal discs that may require surgery.
If you settle with the insurance company before the full extent of your injuries is known, you will be left to pay for any future medical care out of your own pocket. A car crash lawyer will advise you to wait until you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before even considering a settlement.
2. The Insurance Company’s Tactics
Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. They may seem friendly and helpful, but their job is to minimize your claim. They will often:
- Offer a Quick, Lowball Settlement: They may offer you a few thousand dollars right away, hoping you’ll take it before you realize the true cost of your injuries and damages.
- Use Your Words Against You: They will ask for a recorded statement and use seemingly innocent comments to argue that you were at fault or that your injuries aren’t serious.
- Dispute Your Medical Bills: They may claim your medical treatments were unnecessary or unrelated to the accident.
Having an experienced attorney from our dedicated team forces the insurance company to take your claim seriously. We handle all communications and negotiations, protecting you from these high-pressure tactics.
3. Proving Fault Can Be Complicated
Even in what seems like a clear-cut case, the other driver or their insurer may try to shift the blame to you. They might invent a story about you braking suddenly or changing lanes without signaling. In Texas, if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you get nothing. A car crash lawyer will immediately start gathering evidence—like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports—to build an undeniable case proving the other party’s negligence.
When Should You Call a Car Crash Lawyer?
You should always consult with a lawyer after any accident involving an injury, no matter how minor it seems. Here are some specific situations where making that call is absolutely critical:
- Anytime you are in pain.
- When the other driver’s insurance company contacts you.
- If the other driver denies fault or their story changes.
- If you have to miss work due to your injuries.
- When you feel pressured or confused by the insurance process.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: What if the damage to my car is very minor?**
A: The value of your personal injury claim is not determined by the amount of property damage. It is based on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. A skilled lawyer can successfully argue that significant injuries can occur even in low-impact collisions.
Q: Is it worth hiring a lawyer if my medical bills are low?
A: Even a few doctor’s visits can add up, and you are entitled to be compensated for them. More importantly, what seems like a minor injury now could require more extensive treatment in the future. A lawyer ensures that your settlement accounts for both present and future medical needs.
Q: Can I handle the claim myself if the other driver admitted fault?
A: Be very careful. An admission of fault at the scene does not mean the insurance company will accept liability. They often coach their clients to change their stories later. It’s best to have a lawyer secure the evidence needed to lock in the other driver’s responsibility.
Don’t Let a Minor Crash Create a Major Problem
The moments after a car crash are stressful, and it’s tempting to hope for the easiest path forward. But accepting a quick settlement for a seemingly minor accident can be a devastating financial mistake. You have the right to be fully compensated for your injuries, lost wages, and suffering. The best way to protect that right is to have a strong, experienced advocate on your side.
If you’ve been in any type of car crash in Houston or across Texas, don’t take any chances. Call the dedicated car crash lawyers at The Stano Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and give you an honest assessment of your legal options. Contact us today at 832-777-0390 and let us ensure your rights are protected. Contact us online to get started.