Can I Recover Compensation If I Was In A Low-Impact Vehicle Collision?
Victims of low-impact vehicle collisions, such as those that occur in parking lots, are often confused about their legal rights. If you were injured in a low-impact vehicle collision in a parking lot or anywhere else, you might be wondering if you can recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Probably you are not sure if you have a valid claim because you’ve heard people say low-impact vehicle collisions do not result in injuries. Well, this is not true. The truth is that even a low-impact vehicle collision can cause injuries, and you may be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries and damages.
Understanding the Meaning of a Low-impact Collision
A low-impact collision is one that happens at a low speed, usually under ten mph, and involves little or no property damage. A low-impact collision can also be called a “fender bender.” Low-impact collisions are common in parking lots and stop-and-go traffic. Heavy traffic can, for example, cause a driver to cut others off, increasing the chances of a collision happening at low speeds. Other common causes of low-impact vehicle collisions include;
- Distracted driving
- Failing to check blind spots
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield the right of way
Injuries That May Occur in a Low-impact Vehicle Collision
Low-impact vehicle collisions can result in various injuries, including serious ones. Low impact does not mean “no injury” or “minor injury.” One of the injuries that can occur in a low-impact vehicle collision is whiplash. This is an injury that occurs when the head and neck move back and forth in a rapid and forceful manner causing damage to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the neck and shoulders. Some of the effects of whiplash include headaches, neck pain, and shoulder pain.
Another injury you can suffer in a low-impact vehicle collision is a concussion. This is a traumatic brain injury that occurs due to a blow to the head. If, for example, a victim hits their head on the dashboard during a low-impact collision, they could suffer a concussion. Some of the effects of a concussion include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, or balance.
A low-impact vehicle collision may also worsen a pre-existing injury or medical condition.
Damages Recoverable in a Low-impact Car Accident Case
If another party’s negligence caused your low-impact vehicle collision, there are a variety of damages you may be eligible to recover. Some of the damages recoverable in a low-impact car accident case include;
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
The Insurance Company Will Try To Deny Your Claim
The insurance company may try to deny your claim due to the nature of the collision. It may also try to deny your claim on the ground that you had a pre-existing condition. If the insurance company tries to deny your claim due to the nature of the collision, you can prove your injury by disclosing your medical records. If it tries denying your claim on the ground that you had a pre-existing injury or medical condition, an attorney can help you prove that the accident worsened your injury or medical condition.
Contact a Key West & Marathon Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been hurt in a low-impact vehicle collision in Florida, contact our Key West & Marathon car accident attorneys at Florida Keys Injury to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
