Fender Benders vs Serious Accidents: Personal Injury Law Firm in NYC Explains the Differences

Not all car accidents are the same. While some collisions can be catastrophic and result in major injuries, there are other accidents where you walk away with hardly a scratch. The differences between car accidents can be as stark as night and day. Understanding the differences and the steps you take after the accidents can influence your insurance claims, liability, and potential compensation. In this post, as a personal injury law firm in NYC, we will share our insights on these accidents and the best ways victims can handle the aftermath to protect their rights.

What is a fender bender? 

The term “fender bender” is not a legal term but an everyday term that is used to describe minor accidents. In busy cities like NYC, fender benders usually take the form of rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic, two cars brushing up against each other while parking, a light tap while pulling away, among others. Unlike high-impact crashes, fender benders will not trigger airbags, and damage can be superficial, like a cracked tail light, scratched bumper, or bent licence plate.

Do you need to report a fender bender? 

In New York, there is no legal requirement to report minor accidents. You are legally required to report an accident to the police/DMV within 10 days of it happening when a person or pet has been injured or killed, or when the property damage resulting from the accident exceeds $1000.

However, if you’re planning to claim compensation from your insurance, then we recommend that you report the fender bender. The accident report generated can be a crucial piece of evidence in your quest for compensation.

Why fender benders can have major consequences 

Many of us tend to brush fender benders off as minor inconveniences. Even though the initial accident is minor, it can still have major consequences.

• Hidden vehicle damage – Sometimes, the true extent of the damage to your vehicle will not be apparent until much later. What you thought was a dented bumper could hide significant damage to the frame or airbag deployment system. 
• Delayed medical symptoms – Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries only start to show symptoms much later. While you may walk away from the accident feeling fine, things can go downhill pretty quickly. 
• Financial consequences – Even low-speed collisions can result in hundreds and thousands of dollars’ worth of damages. Failing to report the accident can complicate insurance matters, and you might be forced to foot the cost.

What should you do after a fender bender? 

Remember, a fender bender is still an accident. If you’re looking to protect your rights and claim compensation, here’s what you need to do. 

• Report the accident to the police and the DMV.
• Seek medical attention, even if your injuries are minor. 
• Gather evidence and document the scene of the accident. 
• Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved. 
• Contact your car accident lawyer in NYC to understand your rights and liabilities. 
• Contact your insurance company and inform them about the accident. 

Here are things that you shouldn’t do after an accident:

• Do not prematurely leave the scene of the accident.
• Do not argue and provoke the other driver. 
• Do not admit fault or apologize for the accident.
• Do not decline or delay medical treatment.
• Do not make any recorded statements about the accident.
• Do not post about the accident on social media. 
• Do not accept quick insurance settlements.

Conclusion 

While fender benders can seem like a minor inconvenience, you may have the right to claim compensation for any damages. That being the case, it’s always best to treat them like every other accident and respond accordingly. Report the accident, get medical treatment, document the scene, and get in touch with an accident lawyer in NYC. 

At Gabriel Law, we handle car accident cases only on a daily basis. If you’re looking to claim compensation for damages in a car accident, including fender benders, we are happy to help as your New York City auto accident attorney. If you’re ready to take the next step in your quest for compensation, contact us now and schedule your free consultation.