What is a Fender Bender? [A Guide on How To Handle Them]

Thousands of car accidents occur everyday and they can range from severe crashes to minor incidents that can be brushed off, and fender benders are a form of car accidents that cause minimal damage to those involved. While this seems minor and almost trivial, fender benders can be a significant inconvenience and can cause a variety of unforeseen complications for those involved and for their insurance companies. With that in mind, it is important to understand the intricacies of fender benders and how you can take the necessary steps to prevent any problems that may occur.   

What Does Fender Bender Mean?

A fender bender is a type of motor vehicle accident that typically involves a low-speed collision between vehicles, resulting in minimal vehicle damage. Some of the most common causes include distracted driving, abrupt stops, and general misjudgments and miscalculations while on the road. Despite the minimal amount of damage that is generally caused in these types of accidents, it is still technically classified as a car accident and should be treated as seriously as any other accident out there. 

Do You Need to File a Police Report for a Fender Bender?

There is no strict requirement where people have to file a police report for a fender bender, but it is typically recommended to file one, if you believe that the fender bender may result in further legal actions or complications with you and another party’s insurance company. However, should both parties agree that the damage inflicted in the fender bender was so minor that it is not worth calling the police or their respective insurance companies then both parties can continue on with their day. 

The Impact of Fender Benders on Insurance

While the damage in fender benders are minor, it can still lead to an increase in insurance premiums, because they count as an accident. Depending on your driving record and insurance rates, insurance companies may alter your rates for reporting a fender bender especially if you have been in multiple fender benders in a short amount of time. Should you become involved in multiple fender benders, it can lead to your insurance company not only increasing your monthly payments but canceling your policy entirely because you would be tagged as someone who frequently gets into accidents. If you have been involved in a fender bender it is important to understand your insurance company’s policy regarding this matter, because should you become injured and have not reported it, it can lead to a complex situation where you might need to hire a personal injury attorney to help you sort everything out.  

What Should I Do If I Get Into A Fender Bender?

If you have been involved in a fender bender it is important to treat it just like any other car accident. One of the first things to do is to stay calm and carefully assess the situation, and this includes checking the extent of the damage and the wellbeing of those involved. Should the damage in the fender bender is significant enough to make a claim for the insurance company, then it is important that you gather evidence of the accident with pictures and videos, and exchange contact information with those involved. 

Once you have gathered the necessary amount of information, you can file a claim with your insurance provider and they will conduct an investigation of their own to check the details of the claim. Depending on whether you were the one who caused the accident or not, your rates may be adjusted. However, if you require legal representation to work with the insurance company, or need assistance resolving a fender bender, it is recommended to hire a car accident attorney who can help you file the claim properly and make sure everything is fair and in order. 

Legal Considerations and When to Seek Help

There are situations where legal advice or action is necessary, such as disputes over fault, coverage, or if there are injuries involved. Consulting with legal professionals can provide clarity and direction. Fender benders, though minor, can lead to unexpected challenges, including potential injuries that may not be immediately apparent. It’s crucial to monitor any physical discomfort in the days following an incident and consider consulting with medical professionals for an evaluation. 

Call West Coast Trial Lawyers after your Fender Bender 

If you find yourself in a situation where injuries become evident after a fender bender, West Coast Trial Lawyers is here to support and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. Remember, even the smallest incident can have larger implications, and taking the right steps can make all the difference in your recovery and resolution. 

Should you like to get started on the legal process please call (213) 927-3700 or use the online contact form to speak to our compassionate and dedicated legal staff.