Major car accidents are associated with severe injuries, but minor crashes can also lead to serious bodily harm that requires extensive treatment. The problem is that some injuries are not obvious at first, leading to people neglecting to seek immediate care.
Minor crashes can happen in streets and parking lots, and both cars do not have to be moving. For example, a driver could be at a stop sign and get rear-ended by another vehicle. The damage might only include a dent on the back bumper, a broken taillight, or some scratches. When there is no serious damage and airbags are not deployed, it is generally assumed that there are no driver or passenger injuries that require a medical evaluation.
That is not always the case, since even minor car accidents create immense force. Your back, neck, or head could get jolted or twisted. Soft tissue injuries are often seen in low-speed accidents.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Seen in Minor Crashes?
You may be familiar with whiplash, which happens when the head and neck whip back and forth quickly in a matter of seconds. This can lead to soreness, headaches, back pain, and problems moving the upper body. Whiplash can be serious enough to require ongoing medical care, prescription medication, rehabilitation, and lost time from work.
Should your knees and arms hit something in your vehicle when the accident happens, you might experience torn or sprained ligaments, which could make it difficult to work and even take care of yourself. If you hit your knee on the steering wheel, gear shift, or something else in your car, you could suffer damage to your ligaments. Meniscus tears are a common car crash injury, and recovery from this type of injury can take a long time. Some people who survive minor car accidents also end up with concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and closed head injuries.
Statute of Limitations in Maryland
Every accident scenario is different, but if someone else’s negligence caused the crash, you might have a case.
Every state has a statute of limitations. In Maryland, you have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, and the clock starts clicking on the date of the accident. This is why it is critical to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible following an accident.
Bowie Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Can Help You if You Are Injured Due to a Negligent Driver
Although you might think that visiting a physician after a minor car accident is a waste of time, an early diagnosis is crucial for many injuries. If you are searching for a skilled legal professional, speak with a Bowie car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Complete our online form or call us at 202-331-1963 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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