Some people might assume that the differentiation between a major and a minor accident can be determined by the condition of the vehicle after the accident. However, it is much more complex than that.

Even though the majority of accidents are caused by drunk driving, distracted driving, or negligent maintenance of a vehicle, they still tend to be unexpected and require a great deal of money and energy to be dealt with, not to mention the time wasted, becoming a burden for many working class adults.

The difference between a minor and a major accident consists of one solitary, distinguishable factor: total damages caused, be it in injuries to the passenger or driver as well as damage to the vehicle and other property damage. A major accident may be one involving a big truck, as by nature, the damage caused by the sheer scale and weight of the truck is higher than that of a similar accident involving only cars.

Some individuals may not consider hiring a lawyer if they think the damage done to the vehicle was not serious. However, it is in your best interests to contact a professional after being involved in an accident.

 

Location Matters

Whether you can make a claim for a “minor” accident is most surprisingly, your location, and whether you live in a fault or no-fault state. Don’t get confused, a no fault state actually means that a certain amount of damages must be reached, where the amount exceeds what your personal insurance would pay out in the case of an accident. In this case, you have to hire your own truck accident lawyer to get compensation to meet the needs of damages exceeding the insurance payouts. 

However, the amount differs from state to state. And in states where there is a fault law, you can file a claim no matter what the injuries or damages to the vehicle that it has sustained. Keep in mind, the fault and no-fault laws vary from state-to-state and it is essential to check the limits and laws in your respective state.

 

Time Frame

When filing a personal injury claim for damages associated with accidents, it is important to note that just as states differ on fault vs no-fault law, many states also differ on the statute of limitations, or time period after the accident that you’re eligible to file an accident claim. States like Louisiana, for example, have a one-year limitation, while other states, such as Minnesota have as long as six years. The average is around 2-3 years. 

 

Symptoms

The most important thing to do after a major, or even a minor, accident is to inspect your health. Many people do not suffer from pain immediately after the accident ,rather it takes hours or days for the specific injury to be noticed. It is highly advisable that even after a minor accident with no apparent symptoms or injuries, you seek medical attention right away.  

No matter if you were hit by a car or a truck, if your accident was major or minor, if you suffer from injuries or not, you have every right to seek help from a professional lawyer who can help you seek adequate financial compensation to overcome your difficulties.