Experiencing a minor car accident in Missouri, often called a fender bender, can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. You may find yourself asking, “Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?” Questions about notifying your insurance company, determining fault, and filing a claim can add to the stress of the situation.
In Missouri, what your insurance covers often depends on the specifics of your policy, and there are times when an insurance company may not fully cover your damages or act in your best interest.
If you feel that your claim isn’t being handled fairly or your insurer isn’t willing to cover all related costs, consulting a skilled Missouri car accident lawyer can provide clarity and support. Seeking a free consultation can be a smart first step, allowing you to understand your options without any obligation. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can offer insight into whether legal representation is necessary and help you move forward with confidence.
At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, our dedicated team is here to guide you through the process, handle interactions with insurance companies, and support you every step of the way.
What Are Some Types of Minor Car Accidents in Missouri?
Minor car accidents are more common than major crashes and can occur in a variety of settings, including intersections, parking lots, and residential areas. While these incidents often don’t result in severe injuries or significant property damage, they can still cause stress and disruption. It’s important to address these accidents properly to avoid complications down the road.
- Fender Benders: These accidents typically occur in heavy traffic or when parking. A fender bender usually involves one car lightly bumping into another, causing minor damage such as small dents, scratches, or scuffs on the vehicles. Although the damage might appear minor, it can still lead to frustration and delays.
- Parking Lot Collisions: Low-speed accidents in parking lots are common, especially in tight spaces or crowded areas. These collisions can cause slight scrapes or dents on the vehicle, but even minimal damage can be stressful, especially when the other party is uncooperative or the accident goes unreported. Proper documentation and communication are key to resolving these incidents.
- Rear-End Collisions: A slow-speed rear-end collision may seem harmless, but it can still result in damage to the bumper, trunk, or lights. Additionally, even if there are no immediate signs of injury, rear-end accidents can cause whiplash or other neck and back issues. It’s always important to monitor your health after such an accident.
- Sideswipes: Sideswipe accidents typically happen when two vehicles brush against each other while traveling in the same or opposite directions. These collisions often result in scratches, scuffs, or minor dents, particularly along the sides of the vehicles. Even if the damage is cosmetic, addressing the issue promptly is essential to ensure both parties are clear on fault and damages.
Even if an accident seems minor, it’s crucial to handle the situation properly to avoid complications later on, such as insurance disputes or health issues that might arise days or weeks after the accident.
Can I Get Sued For a Minor Car Accident in Missouri?
While minor car accidents often seem manageable, it’s essential to understand that legal action is always a possibility, even in seemingly small collisions. In Missouri, a driver involved in a minor crash could face a lawsuit under certain circumstances. Here are a few situations where this might occur:
- Damages Exceed Insurance Coverage: If the damages from a minor accident surpass the limits of the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage, the other party may feel compelled to pursue additional compensation through a lawsuit. For example, if the repairs to the vehicle or medical expenses are significantly higher than what the insurance will pay, the injured party may choose to take legal action to recover the difference.
- Disputed Fault: In situations where fault is unclear or contested, one party might file a lawsuit to resolve the dispute and determine liability. Missouri follows a comparative fault system, meaning that if both parties share fault in an accident, each person’s compensation may be reduced according to their percentage of fault. If fault is disputed and not easily resolved, it may lead to a legal battle in court.
- Insufficient Insurance Payout: If an insurance company denies a claim or offers a settlement that does not adequately cover the costs incurred from the accident, the injured party might decide to pursue a lawsuit for full compensation. Insurance companies sometimes make low-ball offers, especially in minor accidents, but if the settlement does not cover the actual expenses, it may prompt the claimant to take legal action to ensure they are properly compensated.
Even in a minor car accident, the potential for a lawsuit exists, especially if there are complexities involving fault, damages, or insurance. Understanding your rights, insurance coverage, and how Missouri’s laws apply to your specific case can help you navigate these situations more confidently.
When Would The Assistance of an Attorney Not Be Necessary?
While legal representation is valuable after a car accident, there are certain situations where you may not need to hire an attorney. Here are some instances when you could consider handling the situation on your own:
No Injuries Involved
If the accident resulted only in minor property damage, with no injuries to anyone involved, you may be able to resolve the issue without legal help. In cases where the accident causes no significant harm to the people involved, and there are no medical bills to consider, handling the claim directly with your insurance provider can be straightforward.
For example, if your vehicle is lightly damaged—say, with a minor scratch or dent that doesn’t affect its functionality—you likely won’t need to consult an attorney. The insurance claim process in these cases is often simple and clear-cut, especially if both parties have the same insurer or the responsible party readily admits fault.
Clear-Cut Liability
When liability for the accident is clear and there’s no dispute over fault, it’s usually unnecessary to involve an attorney. If one driver was unquestionably at fault, such as in cases where a driver ran a red light or rear-ended your car, and their insurance company admits responsibility, the claim process may not require any legal assistance.
For instance, if the other driver’s insurer immediately agrees to cover the full cost of repairs, medical bills, and other damages, managing the claim yourself can be quick and straightforward. However, even in these cases, it’s important to carefully review the settlement offer to ensure it adequately compensates you for all losses.
Minimal Repair Costs
When the cost of repairs is low and falls within the limits of your insurance coverage, hiring an attorney might not be cost-effective. If the damage to your vehicle is minor—such as a small dent, scratch, or bumper scrape—and your policy covers the repair costs in full, you may find that handling the claim directly with your insurer is more efficient than hiring a lawyer.
Moreover, if the damages are well below the deductible, it may not make sense to hire an attorney. However, be cautious not to overlook any potential long-term issues, such as hidden damages or repair work that might cost more than initially estimated. Consulting with an attorney can provide peace of mind in these situations.
No Dispute with Insurance Coverage
In cases where the other driver’s insurance company agrees to cover the damages without dispute, you may not need an attorney. If there are no challenges regarding liability, the insurance company may offer a settlement quickly, and you can usually resolve the matter without any legal assistance.
However, if the insurance company offers a low settlement or refuses to cover certain aspects of your claim, such as medical expenses or rental car costs, you may need to consider legal representation. It’s important to keep in mind that insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts, so accepting their first offer without questioning it could lead to leaving money on the table.
Signs You Need To Hire a Missouri Car Accident Lawyer
While many minor car accidents can be resolved without legal intervention, there are situations where hiring a car accident attorney can protect your rights and help you secure fair compensation. Here are signs that legal representation might be necessary:
- Signs of Injuries Emerging After the Accident: Initial shock or adrenaline can mask injury symptoms immediately following a collision. If you start to notice pain, stiffness, or other signs of injury days after the accident, seek medical care promptly and consult an attorney. Some conditions, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not present symptoms right away but can lead to long-term issues.
- Disputes Regarding Fault: If the other driver denies fault or challenges the circumstances of the accident, it can complicate the claims process. In these cases, an experienced attorney can help gather evidence, consult witnesses, and build a case to establish liability, ensuring you aren’t unfairly held responsible or left without fair compensation.
- Attempts to Settle Privately: If the other driver offers to handle the matter out of pocket, it’s often in your best interest to be cautious. This may seem like a convenient solution but can limit your ability to pursue further compensation if unforeseen issues arise, such as delayed injuries or underestimated repair costs. Consulting an attorney ensures that your rights and potential future needs are fully considered.
- Low Settlement Offers from Insurance: Insurance companies may reach out quickly after an accident with a settlement that seems low compared to your expenses. These initial offers often don’t account for future medical bills, lost wages, or other long-term impacts. An attorney can review the offer, negotiate on your behalf, and push for an outcome that covers the true extent of your losses.
In these scenarios, seeking the guidance of a car accident attorney can be crucial for navigating the claims process and safeguarding your interests.
Handling the Insurance Companies After a Minor Car Accident in Missouri
Handling insurance companies can be one of the most challenging parts of a car accident, even when the collision is minor. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Disputed Facts and Low Offers
Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims quickly by offering lowball settlements. They may undervalue your vehicle, underestimate the extent of the damage, or try to push you toward a specific repair shop that you may not trust. These tactics are aimed at closing the case fast and saving the insurer money.
While it might be tempting to accept the first offer—especially if no injuries are involved—once you agree to a settlement, it’s difficult, if not impossible, to reverse it.
A car accident attorney can help ensure you’re receiving a fair offer. If the settlement is inadequate, they can challenge it and negotiate a better deal on your behalf.
2. Costs That Insurance May Not Cover
Even without personal injury, a car accident can still lead to significant costs. If your car is totaled or requires extensive repairs, you may need a rental car. While some insurance policies cover rental expenses, others do not. Being without a vehicle can affect your ability to work, run errands, or care for your family—especially for those who rely on their car for work, such as rideshare drivers or delivery workers.
Filing claims for additional expenses, like rental cars, missed work, or canceled trips, can be complex, particularly when there are no injuries. An experienced attorney can help structure your claim to ensure these costs are factored in and you receive full compensation for all related losses.
3. Pressure to Settle Quickly
Insurance adjusters often reach out soon after an accident with a settlement offer. However, these early offers are frequently lower than what you are truly entitled to, leaving you vulnerable. If you feel pressured or uncertain about the terms being offered, it’s wise to consult with a car accident attorney.
They can review your case, negotiate for a better settlement, and ensure your legal rights are fully protected throughout the process.
Am I Required To Report a Minor Car Accident To the Missouri Police?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Missouri, it’s important to know when you are legally required to report the incident. While not every accident needs to be reported, there are specific situations where state law mandates you to contact the authorities. Here are the key circumstances when you must report a car accident in Missouri:
- Property Damage, Injuries, or Fatalities: If the accident causes property damage exceeding $500, results in any injuries, or involves a fatality, you are legally required to report the incident.
- Involvement of an Uninsured Driver: If the accident involves an uninsured driver, whether it’s on a street, highway, or parking lot, it must be reported.
- Striking a Parked or Unattended Vehicle: If you hit a parked or unattended vehicle and the owner is not present, you must report the accident.
Additionally, the Missouri Department of Revenue requires you to file an accident report if it occurred in Missouri, within the last 12 months, and involved an uninsured driver. It’s important to note that if the uninsured driver is found at fault and charged with negligence, they will also be held accountable for driving without insurance.
While you should aim to file a report as soon as possible, you have up to 30 days to do so. If you fail to meet this deadline, you may need to provide a valid reason, such as a doctor’s note confirming you were physically unable to report the accident.
Knowledgeable Auto Accident Attorneys in Missouri
At Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers, we are committed to providing knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation for car accident victims throughout Missouri. With years of experience and a dedication to helping our clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, we strive to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Some of the locations in Missouri we serve include St. Louis, Florissant, Kirksville, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, and more.
