When Minor Accidents Turn into Major Disputes
A minor car accident typically involves low-speed impact and little to no visible vehicle damage. Common examples include rear-end fender benders at a stoplight, parking lot bumps, or slight sideswipes in traffic. Often, police are not called to the scene, and the drivers may exchange information before they move on without much fanfare.
But even if the damage appears small and everyone seems fine at first, complications can surface later. In both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, claims may be filed with your own insurance provider initially. But while accessing recovery may seem straightforward, disputes can arise, especially when someone alleges injuries or property damage beyond what was first reported. To protect yourself from undue loss, connect with a Bucks County personal injury attorney.
Fender Benders and Disputes
Despite how small the accident may seem, there are several ways a simple fender bender can escalate into a drawn-out legal issue.
- Hidden injuries. Soft tissue injuries like whiplash, back strain, or even concussions may not show symptoms until hours or days after the incident. If one party later files a claim for medical treatment, the other driver (or their insurer) may argue the injury wasn’t accident-related or was exaggerated. This often leads to contentious back-and-forth and can even result in a lawsuit.
- Disputed fault. Minor accidents can become major problems when the drivers disagree on who was at fault. Without a police report or clear evidence like dashcam footage, each party may point fingers. In New Jersey, where comparative negligence laws apply, each driver’s degree of fault can impact how much compensation is awarded, or if any is awarded at all.
- Insurance complications. A small claim can balloon into a coverage dispute when insurers argue over who should pay, how much should be paid, or whether the claim even falls under a particular policy. Additionally, if the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured, the other party may be forced to pursue compensation through legal action.
- Property damage disagreements. Even when there’s little visible damage, repair estimates can vary widely. One shop might quote $500 while another might find hidden structural damage and quote $5,000. Disputes over repair costs, diminished value, or rental car reimbursement can lead to frustration and legal escalation.
If you’ve been in a minor car accident in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, don’t assume it’s something to brush off. What begins as a small incident can turn into a significant legal and financial issue.
Seasoned Attorneys Have the Skills You Need
Consulting with an experienced Bucks County personal injury attorney can help you protect your rights, navigate insurance disputes, and ensure fair compensation. You don’t have to learn all about injury law to shield yourself from loss. Instead, talk to a lawyer before a minor bump becomes a major burden.
Where were you when you were involved in a fender bender? Whether the accident happened in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. is available to listen compassionately and share next steps with you. Call 215-515-2604 to schedule a confidential meeting.
