When people think of serious, accident-causing car crashes, they tend to think of devastating high-speed impacts. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that even low-speed impacts – those occurring under 25 miles per hour – can leave victims with extremely serious injuries. The typical car weighs about 2000 pounds, which means even relatively low-speed accidents can result in impact forces of several tons. Fortunately, in many instances, low-speed impact victims can recover compensation from the person or party that caused their accident.
While low and high-speed impacts can have similar causes, low-speed impacts are typically not caused by drivers losing control of their vehicles or rapidly unfolding hazardous situations. Rather, low-speed impacts are typically caused by clear instances of driver error, including:
Low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries with lasting effects, but they tend to be different in character than the injuries you often see in high-speed accidents. They often involve “invisible” injuries that have few external symptoms like lacerations or bruises but nonetheless cause significant pain and discomfort. Some common low-speed crash injuries include:
As a person who has been injured in a low-speed car crash, it’s vital to be aware of the fact that insurance companies will do everything they can to minimize the severity of your injuries so they can also minimize the amount they offer you to settle your case. It is for this reason that it is critical to go see your doctor after a low-speed car accident, even if you do not think you are seriously hurt. The more documentation that you have regarding your injuries, the greater the likelihood that you will get the full value of your claim.
Additionally, you should be sure to retain an experienced attorney as soon as you can after any accident – low-speed or otherwise. While you are unrepresented by counsel, there is the chance that you will say or do something that can hurt your chances of obtaining compensation for your injuries.
If you have been hurt in a low-speed impact in the St. Louis area, don’t make the mistake of thinking that your accident was not serious enough to justify calling an attorney. At Bruntrager & Billings, we have the experience required to make sure that all you get compensation for all of your accident-related losses, including your pain and suffering. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, call our office today at 314-646-0066 or contact us online.
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