Can You Obtain Compensation in a Low-Impact Collision in Colorado?
Even though no one expects to be involved in a car accident, they are common throughout Colorado. While some car accidents can quickly be resolved with insurance claims, others, like low-impact collisions, are more complicated. A low-impact collision is a crash that happens at a low speed, causing little or no property damage. These accidents are mostly caused by another person’s negligence or wrongful act and can cause long-lasting soft tissue injuries (STIs). Despite that, most insurance companies and perpetrators make it quite challenging to get the proper compensation in a liability claim against the person at fault.
You have the right to obtain compensation for the injuries and damages incurred in a low-impact collision where the other party is at fault. Speaking with an experienced accident lawyer at Mintz Law Firm can be your best path to obtaining the compensation you deserve.
What Is Considered a Low-Impact Collision?
A low-impact collision is an auto accident that occurs at low speeds, typically 15 miles per hour or below. This happens when a car collides with another vehicle or object at low speeds, mostly in stop-and-go traffic or parking lots. Low-impact collisions include a car bumping into the rear of your vehicle during stop-and-go traffic or side-swapping a parked vehicle.
In most cases, low-impact collisions are caused by distracted driving, among other negligent activities, including:
- Intoxicated driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to obey traffic lights
- Driving too closely
- Inexperienced drivers
- Not paying attention while parking
- Mechanical problems, including poor vehicle maintenance or defective car parts
These accidents can also be caused by low visibility and poor road conditions. No matter the cause of the auto accident, you can get compensation for all the injuries and damages caused. Therefore, hiring a dedicated Colorado personal injury attorney to guide you through your compensation claim can significantly benefit you.
Consequences of Low-Impact Collisions
Even though low-impact collisions occur at low speeds, this does not mean that serious injuries do not happen. Common injuries resulting from low-impact collisions include:
- Whiplash
- Shoulder pain
- Spinal cord and other back injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Soft-tissue damage, including torn ligaments
- Traumatic brain injuries
Therefore, it’s crucial you document your injuries by taking pictures or getting an official medical report describing your injuries. Low-impact collisions can also cause significant damage to the body, bumpers, lights, and windows of your car.
What Compensation May Be Available After a Low-Impact Collision in Colorado?
If you were a victim of a negligent driver, you might be able to recover compensation for various damages and expenses related to the crash. A Mintz Law Firm lawyer can help you estimate what you could receive as compensation, which can include the following:
Medical Expenses
Low-impact collisions can cause long-lasting effects or serious injuries that lead to costly medical bills. Therefore, in your personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to obtain compensation for the following medical expenses:
- Doctor’s visits
- Prescription medication
- Image testing, including X-Ray scans
- Physical therapy
- Medical devices
By keeping your medical records, you may receive compensation for any medical costs incurred due to the collision.
Lost Wages
Whiplash and the other injuries sustained after a low-impact collision could prevent you from returning to work for quite some time. This will lead to lost wages that you can claim compensation for. Some of the work-related losses you can claim compensation for include:
- Earning potential
- Salary and wages
- Work bonuses
- Promotions
You may also find yourself unable to return to work due to a permanent disability. A lawyer can help you recover compensation for the future earnings you could have garnered.
Property Damage
In a low-impact collision, the rear bumper of your car could be seriously damaged. You can ask for compensation for the costs used in repairing or replacing your bumper, and even the transportation costs while your vehicle was being repaired. This can include rental car or public transport costs.
Pain and Suffering
Colorado state law allows you to ask for monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the collision. However, this will depend on the severity of the crash and the extent of your injuries.
What to Do After a Low-Impact Collision in Colorado
The steps you should take after a low-impact collision in Colorado can help you through the legal proceedings and the ability to get compensation. You’re required by Colorado state laws to first notify the police about the accident. After that, you can increase your chances of being fairly compensated by:
- Gathering evidence by taking photographs or videos of the scene
- Recording statements from witnesses
- Immediately seek medical treatment to get a medical report of your injuries and expenses
After a low-impact collision in Colorado, the next thing is to consult a personal injury attorney. A qualified attorney at Mintz Law Firm can help you understand your rights, gather all the necessary evidence, and guide you through the legal process. This increases your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Consult an Experienced Colorado Personal Injury Attorney at Mintz Law Firm
Even though low-impact collisions in Colorado result from a driver’s negligence, seeking compensation for these damages can be a very complex process. You’ll not only have high medical bills and other expenses, but also have to deal with uncooperative perpetrators and insurance companies. That’s why having an experienced lawyer from Mintz Law Firm can help streamline this challenging process.
At Mintz Law Firm, we understand that suffering an injury due to someone else’s negligence can be frustrating, debilitating, and stressful. We’re dedicated to helping you fight for your rights and interests while you recover from your injuries and emotional stress. Feel free to schedule a free consultation by filling out our contact form or calling us at (303) 462-2999.