Do Low-Impact Car Accidents Qualify for Settlements?

Key Takeaways

• You may still be able to file an insurance claim for a minor or low-impact car accident if you can show damages.
• Your injury settlement may include damages such as medical expenses, lost time at work, and pain and suffering.
• The settlement process could be more complicated if you struggle to prove some injuries, such as soft tissue injuries or sprains, without obvious medical need.
• Matz Injury Law can help you navigate the settlement process and insurance coverage for these accidents.

A minor accident is often seen as an annoyance or inconvenience. Insurance companies may not view the claim as thoroughly as bigger accidents, often neglecting minor accidents. Just because there is no severe visible damage to your vehicle does not mean there are no injuries that may require medical attention. Continue reading to learn more about low-impact accidents and what may be done to help your situation.

What is Considered a Low-Impact Collision?

A low-impact collision occurs when a car crash occurs at a low rate of speed resulting in little to no property damage. Most often, they result in limited injuries. A rear-ending is a common example of a low-impact accident because most happen at a speed of less than 10 miles per hour, resulting in limited neck strain injuries or other minor aches and pains.

Can You Receive a Settlement for a Low-Impact Car Accident?

Yes, if you are injured in a Michigan car accident, no matter how low-impact, you may be able to pursue compensation for those losses. The value of a settlement from a low-impact car accident depends on the losses suffered, including the extent of any personal injuries and their impact on your ability to live and work. This calculation could include losses such as:

• Medical bills from the incident and the resulting treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost earnings due to missed time at work
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering

Are Medical Bills Included in Settlement Amounts

You can seek a settlement after a car accident if you have any medical bills resulting from it. Medical treatment and any ongoing care you need directly impact your ability to seek a claim in a minor car accident. To determine this, insurance companies look at:

• Your medical records documenting the injuries
• The severity of those injuries
• Any medical expenses related to your injuries and recovery

Keep accurate, detailed records of all medical expenses, including medications, surgeries, and physical therapy.

Lost Income in Settlement Amounts

Minor car accidents may cause you to miss time at work, impacting your financial well-being. If you miss work due to the accident itself, you may be able to seek compensation for any documented time off you were not paid for in any way. To determine these losses, the insurance company may look at:

• Paycheck stubs
• Employment records
• Loss of PTO

Keep records to verify this information, including any losses to contributions to your retirement accounts or health savings accounts. Those small details can add up over time.

Pain and Suffering in Settlement Amounts

Pain and suffering is a subjective figure based on factors like the severity of your injuries. To calculate the value of your pain and suffering, insurance companies are likely to consider:

• Your emotional distress from the incident
• The severity of your injuries

To document this, keep a journal documenting how you feel emotionally and physically, as well as any other impact the accident has on your daily life. Document events in your life you missed and any concerns about your mental health.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Settle a Low-Impact Car Accident Claim?

After an auto accident, your injury claim may take some time to process, depending on various factors. A Michigan car accident claim may take months to a year or more to settle. The more complicated the case is, the longer it may take to receive a payout. With the help of a skilled Michigan car accident lawyer, you may be able to provide more accurate and thorough information about your losses to the insurance company. This may help minimize delays related to those factors.

Related Resources

• Are Car Accident Settlements Taxable in Michigan?: After a car accident case settlement, paying taxes is the last thing you want to worry about. If you received a fair settlement, here is what you need to know about paying car accident settlement taxes.
• Contusions and Bruising After Car Accidents: Contusions and bruising after car accidents may not seem like a serious injury at first, but they can worsen. Recognizing these injuries, including the type of car crash that can cause them, is critical. Learn more about these injury cases from a trusted car accident attorney.
• Who is at Fault in Michigan For Weather Related Car Accidents?: Learn what you can expect if you suffer car accident injuries due to weather-related events in Michigan. Find out if your insurance policy will pay for it and how a lawyer can help.
• 2024 Guide to Michigan Car Accident Lawsuits: Michigan car accident lawsuits are not uncommon, but they are complex and often involve more steps than a simple claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. Learn more about car accident lawsuits in Michigan, including how they work and how a personal injury lawyer can help.
• How to File Small Claims Court for Auto Accidents in Michigan: You may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party in small claims court for property damage after a Michigan car accident. Find out whether it is an option in your case.

Why Clients Choose Matz Injury Law

Matz Injury Law provides comprehensive legal support to victims of all types of car accidents. We take your claim seriously and work to provide exceptional support throughout your case. We work with many car accident victims, including those with catastrophic injuries or injuries resulting from a fender bender. Trusted, experienced, and dedicated to pursuing fair compensation in your personal injury claim, you can trust Matz Injury Law to help you.

Testimonials

“I have used Matz Injury Law over the years, and they are the most honest and trustworthy attorneys I have ever used. They go above and beyond for their clients. I would recommend them to anyone.” — David L.

“Steve Matz was there when I needed him. Nobody expects to be a victim of a car accident, but when I found myself in that situation, it was overwhelming. Steve made everything easy. Steve did not accept the insurance company’s first offer. He held out and got me a better settlement. Steve is very kind and professional.  I highly recommend Matz Injury Law.” — Sharon K.

A Small Accident Can Still Change Your Life

Before you agree to a small car accident settlement amount with an adjuster, set up a free consultation with a personal injury attorney who can help you minimize the risk of undervaluing your damages. Connect with Matz Injury Law by calling 1-866-22Not33 or filling out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.