Can You Get a Serious Injury Even From a Minor Car Accident in Illinois?

 Posted on July 18, 2025 in Car Accidents

Car accidents do not have to be severe crashes to cause lasting harm. Even a low-speed collision can leave you dealing with painful injuries, medical bills, and stress. An Orland Park, IL car accident lawyer can help you protect your rights and understand your options if you are hurt. 

What Are Some Common Serious Injuries That Can Result From a Minor Car Accident?

People are often surprised to learn that significant injuries can result from a minor accident. You might feel okay at first, but symptoms can show up hours or days later. Some common injuries from minor accidents include:

• Whiplash: Whiplash is a sudden back-and-forth movement of the neck that can impact muscles and ligaments, causing pain, headaches, and stiffness.

• Concussions or mild traumatic brain injuries: Even small jolts can shake the brain, leading to memory issues, dizziness, or mood changes.

• Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruises might sound minor, but they can cause lasting discomfort and require therapy.

• Back injuries: Herniated discs or pinched nerves can happen even without major impact and may lead to chronic pain or numbness.

The Illinois Vehicle Code, under 625 ILCS 5/11, explains that all drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely to avoid collisions and injuries. If another driver fails to meet that duty, they can be held responsible for the harm caused, even if the accident seemed minor at the time.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident in Illinois?

After a small accident, it might be tempting to handle the insurance claim on your own. However, keep in mind that insurance companies often downplay injuries in low-speed crashes. They might argue that you could not possibly be hurt if the cars were not badly damaged. However, medical evidence frequently shows otherwise.

A lawyer can help gather medical records, accident reports, and other proof to support your claim. They can also guide you in dealing with insurance companies and ensure that you do not accidentally say something that could hurt your claim. It is especially important to have a legal representative if your injuries get worse over time and you face unexpected medical expenses.

Illinois law sets a deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits. According to 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for injuries. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering any compensation.

Can You Sue for a Minor Car Accident in Illinois?

You can sue for injuries caused by a minor car accident in Illinois if another driver was at fault. Sometimes, even a simple claim becomes complicated if the other driver denies fault or if the insurance company questions the seriousness of your injuries.

If you are partially at fault for the crash, Illinois law applies the modified comparative negligence rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. This law says that you can still collect damages if you are partly at fault. However, you must be less than 50 percent responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your share of fault. For example, if you are found 10 percent at fault, any compensation you receive would be reduced by 10 percent.

Contact an Orland Park, IL Car Accident Attorney Today

If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, the Orland Park, IL personal injury lawyers at Issa Law, LLC can help you seek the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront and owe legal fees only if we win your case. Call 708-966-2408 today to schedule your free consultation.