Many minor car accidents are referred to as “fender benders,” occurring at low speeds and resulting in minimal or no damage. Even if vehicle damage does not happen, individuals may still experience injuries in a minor car accident. Unfortunately, injuries may not be immediately apparent, leading the victim to believe they have a clean bill of health. Often, injury victims may skip filing a claim to avoid the hassle of dealing with insurance companies.
At Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe, our car accident lawyers are committed to helping injured parties in Gettysburg, PA, understand their legal options. Our team of attorneys has extensive knowledge of motor vehicle laws, enabling us to provide clients with practical solutions to complex issues. If you are concerned about your health following a crash, do not hesitate to reach out to our legal team.
Even seemingly minor collisions can create lasting physical and financial challenges. Having an attorney ensures that your injuries are correctly valued and your rights are effectively protected.
A Lawyer Can Help You Recover Damages
Even if an accident only results in minor property and vehicle damage, a person’s injuries may be more serious than initially thought. For instance, whiplash, a condition in which a person’s cervical spine and head are moved forcibly back and forth, can occur at speeds as low as five to 10 miles per hour. Typically occurring in rear-end crashes, whiplash is compared to the “cracking of a whip.” A whiplash injury can cause damage to the nerves, tendons, muscles, and discs in the neck.
While not life-threatening, the pain has been described as nothing short of debilitating. Given this, an individual may require months of physical therapy, follow-up visits with physicians, and treatments to regain normal function in their neck and shoulders. Medical costs can add up rather quickly, making it difficult to pay your mortgage, utility bills, and everyday living expenses.
A Lawyer Can Help You Gather Evidence to Prove Fault
Recovering your car accident case relies on you providing convincing evidence. Typical evidence includes photographs and/or video footage, witness testimony, and a police report. Even if your accident is considered minor, you still need to establish the other driver’s fault and your lack thereof. Below, we provide a snapshot of each type of evidence and how it can support your claim.
Video Footage and/or Photographs
Video footage is typically considered the most persuasive form of evidence, as it shows the accident unfolding in real time. Video evidence may be obtained through a dashcam, store surveillance camera, or a cell phone. Instead of video footage, photographs can also convey a great deal. Immediately after a crash, even if it is minor, photos should be taken before vehicles are moved. Photos can show the condition of both vehicles following the crash and vehicle damage (even if minimal). If you suffered visible injuries, you should take pictures of them. If you use your cellphone, be sure to have the timestamp setting activated to document the time of your accident.
Police Report
Pennsylvania law requires you to call the police if there are any injuries, fatalities, or vehicle damage to the extent that the car must be towed. If you contact the police, the officer who responds to the scene of the crash will take down the names of all parties involved, weather and road conditions, eyewitness statements, and their conclusion of who caused the crash. Although the police report is not usually admissible at trial, it will be required by your insurance company when you submit your claim.
Witness Testimony
Having someone who watched the crash in real-time can clear up any confusion or maps. Eyewitness testimony can be highly persuasive to a jury, especially when the witness can describe what they saw, heard, and the general atmosphere at the scene after the accident. A car accident lawyer’s discernment is key in choosing a credible witness. If an eyewitness shows any indication of dishonesty, then that character flaw may cost a plaintiff the entire case.
A Lawyer Can Help You Recover Maximum Compensation
In situations in which insurance coverage is insufficient or insurance is not paying what you deserve, then you may need to consider suing the at-fault driver. If you choose litigation, then you must meet the burden of establishing the other driver’s liability. Our team of car accident lawyers has the courtroom experience and oratorical skills to convince a jury of your credibility. No matter which path you choose, the car accident lawyers at Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe are here to provide legally sound advice.
Speak with a Gettysburg Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were involved in a minor crash only to find out that you did suffer injuries, our Gettysburg car accident lawyers are here to help. For over 30 years, Shollenberger, Januzzi & Wolfe has been providing effective legal services to our community. We continually improve our negotiation and trial skills to deliver the best possible service to our clients. To arrange your free consultation, contact us online or call (717) 229-6580 today.