Can I File a Personal Injury Claim with Only Minor Injuries?
Most often, yes. When people think of personal injury claims, they often imagine severe accidents resulting in significant physical harm. But you don’t need to be severely injured to file a claim. Minor injuries, while they may not seem life-altering at first glance, can still justify a personal injury claim. Please contact a skilled personal injury attorney now if you or a loved one was injured in an accident.
What Constitutes a “Minor Injury”?
Minor injuries typically refer to those that do not require extensive medical treatment or have long-term impacts on your ability to work or live your life. Examples may include:
- Whiplash,
- Cuts and bruises,
- Soft tissue injuries,
- Sprains and strains, and
- Minor concussions
Although these may seem insignificant compared to more serious injuries, they can still result in medical bills, lost wages, and pain or discomfort.
Why Filing a Claim is Still Important
Even if your injuries appear minor, they will still result in expenses. Filing a claim in these cases can help reimburse you for them.
In particular, filing an injury claim after suffering minor injuries can result in you receiving compensation for such things as:
- Medical Expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Future lost earnings,
- Out-of-pocket expenses, and
- Pain and suffering.
Insurance Companies May Minimize Your Claim
Note that insurance companies may attempt to minimize or outright deny claims related to minor injuries. They may argue that your injuries are not severe enough to warrant compensation.
Having legal representation in these situations is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and advocate for the full value of your claim.
Statute of Limitations
Even with minor injuries, it’s important to act quickly. There are time limits—known as the statute of limitations—within which you must file a claim. Waiting too long may jeopardize your ability to receive compensation, regardless of the severity of your injury.
The statute of limitations for most injury claims in Washington and California is two or three years.
How an Attorney Can Help
It is important to consult with a personal injury attorney in cases involving minor injuries. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you:
- Evaluate the strength of your claim,
- Gather necessary evidence, such as medical records and eyewitness statements,
- Negotiate with the insurance company, and
- Ensure you receive compensation for all possible damages, even those you may not have considered.
In the End…
Minor injuries should not be dismissed when it comes to personal injury claims. Even if your injury does not appear significant, you are still entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Filing a claim ensures that you are not left bearing the financial burden of an accident that wasn’t your fault.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.
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