Does a Fender Bender Count as an Accident?

November 29, 2023

Have you ever found yourself in a minor car mishap, known as a fender bender, and wondered, “Does a fender bender count as an accident?”

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This is a common question many drivers grapple with. But no need to fret! We’ve got you covered. This simple guide will help you understand whether your fender bender is considered an accident and how this classification could affect you.

Read further to learn about your rights and how to navigate such situations. Let’s demystify this together!

Severity of Damage

We usually talk about minor things when discussing the severity of fender bender damage. Maybe there’s a scratch on your car’s paint or a small dent in your bumper. These might seem like small issues, but here’s the deal: even a minor fender bender can be considered a car accident.

If the vehicles or property are damaged or if anyone is injured, it counts as an accident. If necessary, report the fender bender to your insurance company and the local authorities.

Injury and Safety Considerations

When it comes to injuries, even a gentle ‘bump’ in a fender bender can cause harm. Just because there’s not much damage to the car doesn’t mean you’re 100% okay.

You could have a hidden injury like whiplash. This is when your neck moves back and forth fast, and it can happen even in slow crashes.

Always check yourself for any pain or discomfort after a fender bender. If you’re feeling off, see a doctor right away. Remember, your safety is the most important thing.

Legal and Insurance Definitions

We need to understand what “accident” means regarding legal and insurance. According to law, an accident includes any unexpected event that causes damage. So yes, a fender bender is an accident.

Your insurance company sees it the same way. This classification might affect your insurance premium.

Here’s where accident lawyer expectations come in. A good car accident lawyer will help you figure out these legal terms, deal with your insurance company, and help you understand what you can expect after a fender bender.

Reporting and Documentation Requirements

After a minor vehicle accident like a fender bender, it’s important to report it. You might think it’s a small thing, but you don’t need to. But that’s not true.

Always tell your insurance company about it. Take photos of any damage, too, to help with your claim.

Also, if the police come, they can give you a report. This could help you later. Remember, your actions right after the fender bender can make a big difference if more issues arise later.

Impact on Daily Life

After a fender bender, your day-to-day life might change a bit. Maybe your car is in the shop for repairs. This could mean taking the bus or walking, making you late. Or, you might need to see a doctor for a check-up.

This changes your routine and can be stressful. Also, dealing with insurance can take time. It’s important to understand that even tiny accidents can have a big impact. So, always handle them with care.