Why You Should Still Talk to a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident

You still need a lawyer if you’ve been involved in a minor car accident. Injuries and vehicle damage may not show up immediately, insurance adjusters may lowball you, and even your so-called fender bender can have long-term financial consequences. That’s why, after experiencing a seemingly minor crash, speaking with a skilled car accident attorney in Reading, PA, is crucial.

At Fanelli, Evans & Patel, we offer free initial case assessments to help you determine whether you have a valid claim and ensure that you will not be left paying for another party’s mistake.

When a Minor Car Accident Turns into More

A low-speed collision or minor damage to your car can make your accident seem like no big deal. However, it’s crucial to understand that the force of even a slow crash can still cause real harm to your neck, back, or brain. Whiplash, concussions, soft tissue injuries, or herniated discs can take days or even weeks to display symptoms.

When you feel pain and other symptoms, the insurance company may already be trying to close your claim. You can lose your chance to recover full compensation if you have signed anything, accepted a settlement, or failed to document the injury early on.

Similarly, vehicle damage can be deceptive. A small dent might hide structural frame damage, misaligned axles, or problems with airbags or safety sensors that become apparent only during a professional inspection. If you dismiss it as minor, you risk paying for these hidden repairs out of your pocket.

Under Pennsylvania law, you have two years from the crash date to take legal action. However, insurance companies will try to rush the process, pressuring you to accept a quick check in exchange for signing away your legal right to compensation. But that will not happen when you have a Reading car accident attorney working on your case.

Our Accident Lawyers Know What You Can Expect

You’ll be disadvantaged when you don’t have an attorney after a minor crash. You may inadvertently make mistakes that can hurt your case or reduce your ability to recover compensation. One of the most significant issues is delayed injuries.

Many people walk away from a crash thinking they’re fine, only to start experiencing pain days later. Without a lawyer guiding you, you may skip medical care, fail to document your symptoms, or wait too long to seek help. These are things that the insurer will surely use against you when you file your claim.

Another danger is accepting a lowball settlement. Insurers are skilled at making fast offers that seem generous. But once you take it, you can’t ask for more, even if new medical bills or complications arise. Without a lawyer, you might settle your case for a fraction of its worth.

Additionally, you risk being blamed for the crash. Your compensation gets reduced even if you’re only partially at fault under Pennsylvania’s shared fault rules. Our legal team can investigate the crash, gather the right evidence, and push back against unfair accusations to secure your compensation through strategic negotiations or in court.

For a free consultation with our attorneys, contact us online or dial (484) 869-2113.