LOW-SPEED COLLISIONS DO NOT ALWAYS EQUAL MINOR INJURIES

Posted on Monday, September 11th, 2017 at 12:52 am    

One of the most frustrating or infuriating statements after a car accident that an insurance adjuster can say to a victim is, “It was just a fender bender so your injuries cannot be that severe.” Many people, including insurance adjusters, believe that “fender benders” or low-speed collisions equal minor injuries.

For some reason, insurance adjusters want to equate the amount of property damage to the vehicles with the severity of your injuries. This assumption makes no sense except in one sense — to settle your injury claim for as little as possible. However, the impact from a low-speed car accident can cause serious injuries that can prevent you from performing your normal daily activities, including taking care of your family and performing job duties.

Low-Speed Car Accident Injuries

One of the reasons that insurance adjusters and others assume that low-impact crashes do not cause severe injuries is because many of the injuries in these types of accidents are soft tissue injuries. A common example of a soft tissue injury sustained in a low-speed car accident is whiplash.

Unfortunately, soft tissue injuries like whiplash do not show up on imaging tests like a broken bone. An x-ray or MRI will not show the soft tissue damage caused by the car accident. Therefore, the insurance adjuster may argue that you are not as severely injured as you claim. In other words, “Where is the medical proof for your injury?”

Proving a Soft Tissue Injury

One of the first things you should do after any accident is to seek medical attention. It is important to your claim that you document your injuries as soon as possible after an accident. With a soft tissue injury, your doctor can document symptoms to help diagnose your condition. Your doctor can also prescribe various treatments that can help relieve the pain and improve mobility. The diagnosis and treatment plan are key elements in a low-speed car crash claim.

You need to document your symptoms, including your pain level and limitations in activities. Many times, proving whiplash or other soft tissue damage involves documenting the various symptoms of the injury and how those symptoms improved or grew worse with various forms of treatment. Report all changes to your physician immediately and follow through with treatment to improve your chance of recovering compensation for your injuries.

Another way to improve your chance of recovering money for your accident claim is by consulting with an experienced Sacramento accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash.  An attorney can advise you of your options and provide support and guidance as you continue treatment for your injury and prepare to file your injury claim against the negligent driver.

Call for a Free Legal Consultation with a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been injured in a low-speed car accident and the insurance adjuster is not treating you fairly, call Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 to schedule your free appointment with an attorney or request additional information about soft tissue damages and car accident claims.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
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I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
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I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
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The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
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Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
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Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
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