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No one can predict car accidents. They are unforeseen and can happen to anyone. When they occur, they affect a person’s emotional, physical, and financial well-being. But while any auto accident can be burdensome, there are a few differences between a major and minor accident. How can you tell the difference? Take a look at some things that will differentiate the two.
The Severity of Injuries
Car accidents usually lead to injuries. However, some injuries are more severe than others, and they can lead to death. In fact, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health, motor vehicle accidents were the second leading cause of deaths associated with injuries in 2020. Major car accidents tend to lead to more severe injuries than minor collisions.
Minor accidents usually lead to minor injuries that pose no threat to drivers and passengers. Victims are likely to recover after a couple of days. On the other hand, major accidents lead to life-threatening injuries such as spinal cord injury and brain damage.
Vehicle Damage
In a minor accident, the damage would be almost insignificant. For instance, your car may get a dent or any other type of damage that is more of an inconvenience than a serious issue.
In a major car accident, the car damage is very extensive. In some cases, the vehicle will be referred to as totaled. A car involved in a major accident won’t be in a manageable form. The damage makes the vehicle undrivable and will require it to be towed away. Also, the driver will have to spend a lot of money to fix the car or have to replace it completely.
The Financial Loss After the Accident
After a car accident, one or both parties will suffer financial loss. In a minor accident, the financial loss is mostly small and manageable. However, minor accidents can still lead to hundreds of dollars worth of loss.
The financial burden is huge in a major accident because of severe injuries or property damage. The car repair bills and medical bills can be worth tens of thousands. It’s easier to recover financially from a minor accident than a major one. Never assume you won’t need an attorney because the damage is minor. Hire an Atlanta auto accident lawyer to represent your interest, despite the outcome of the accident.
Recovery Time for Injuries Sustained in an Accident
Although major accidents lead to more serious injuries and care, it doesn’t mean minor accidents can’t cause severe injuries. That’s why attorneys advise people to see a doctor immediately and document what has happened.
For instance, whiplash can also be sustained in minor injuries. Although symptoms of whiplash can resolve in a couple of weeks, some victims may experience chronic stiffness and pain for years after the crash. More severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBI)take longer to heal; in some cases, they can be permanent injuries. In fact, the CDC reports that TBIs can lead to death or permanent disability.
What to Do After a Car Accident
There are steps you’ll need to take depending on how injured you are. The first thing is going to a hospital for a medical assessment. Once you receive treatment, get legal help. This is a crucial step as long as injuries are involved. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will inform you of your rights and help you seek fair compensation. They will also investigate the case and collect the evidence needed to support your case.
Whether you have been involved in a major or minor car accident, you deserve justice for the damage caused. The best way to ensure that happens is by hiring an attorney to advocate for you.
