Accidents happen in California every day. Not all of these accidents cause major damage or serious injuries, so they are classified as minor. Accidents in parking lots or slow-speed rear-end collisions at stoplights are usually minor.
However, these accidents can also lead to unexpected costs. This means minor accidents can cause more than $1,000 in damages because of vehicle repair costs and other bills.
Why Minor Accidents Can Become Huge Expenses
Sometimes, a minor accident leaves what seems to be small dents or scratches. But, modern cars have safety systems, sensors, and cameras that can all be damaged in a minor collision. These are usually very expensive to repair.
It is also possible that a low-speed impact can affect a car’s alignment, which will cost extra to rectify.
When it comes to injuries in a low-speed accident, you may not even feel anything wrong at first. Still, some injuries can become apparent after days or weeks. This may include whiplash or soft tissue injuries.
If this happens after a minor accident, you will have to visit a doctor and potentially get physical therapy. You will also be given medication. All of this costs money. So, even with insurance, your out-of-pocket expenses will quickly add up.
California’s High Cost of Living
California’s cost of living is at least 30% higher than the rest of the country. This means you will likely pay more for medical treatment. You will also pay more to have your car repaired. This alone can make a seemingly small accident highly financially significant.
California Law and Minor Accidents
If a minor accident causes more than $1,000 in property damage or results in injuries or fatalities, it must be reported to the DMV. This has not changed in 2024, despite inflation making $1,000 a very low benchmark for repairs and medical bills.
Failing to report an accident that meets this threshold can result in a suspended driver’s license or potential liability issues. If you cause a minor accident, you must know what your responsibilities are under the law. This is the best way to avoid unnecessary legal problems.
What to Do After a Minor Accident
The first thing to do after a minor accident is prioritize safety, not only yours and your passengers but the safety of the other car’s occupants. Moreover, you must also consider the safety of other road/parking lot users.
Move to a safer location, if possible. If the accident happened in a parking area, move out of the way of other cars. If it happens on the road, move to the side if it is safe.
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If you and others sustained injuries, you should take photos with your phone for evidence.
You should also exchange contact information with the other driver. Get their name and number, and take down their driver’s license details, vehicle registration, and insurance information.
When this is done, you can continue documenting the scene while waiting for the police to arrive. Take photos of the damage to the vehicles, including the license plates. Get footage of the location of the accident and any relevant traffic signs.
Also, get the contact information of bystanders who may have seen what happened. You or your lawyer can get a full statement from them later.
You should get a police report if you plan on filing for compensation. A police report gives you an unbiased record of the incident, which will be useful if the other driver disputes your version of events.
Lastly, you must inform your insurance company, even if the accident is minor.
How to Manage Unexpected Costs
You should never rely on visual damage inspection alone. Take your car to a body shop for a proper evaluation. It is best to get a full picture of the damages upfront so you will know how much the repairs will cost.
Getting a medical checkup after a minor accident is important, even if you feel fine. Delayed symptoms can lead to more costly treatment down the line. Documentation of injuries can also help you if you decide to file a legal case.
Furthermore, it is crucial to understand what your insurance covers. California is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for damages.
However, your own collision insurance can also help pay for vehicle repairs, while Med-Pay can cover medical expenses. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance.
Consulting a Lawyer
Sometimes, you need a lawyer’s help after a minor accident. This is usually true when the at-fault driver disputes fault or an insurance company denies your claim. You will also need a lawyer if you suffer injuries.
A qualified lawyer can guide you in filing a legal case and help you get the compensation to cover your expenses.
