Impacts that occur at speeds less than 10 MPH are known as “low speed impacts”. There is usually little (if any) visible property damage done to the rear of ones motor vehicle. However, the occupants of the vehicle that is struck (especially in the rear) often have injuries, especially neck injuries. The most common of them are identified as “Whiplash”.
Injuries to the low back are also common. The occupants cannot brace themselves nor force their back and neck against the seat or headrest. If the person is sitting at a light when the impact occurs, they may be leaning forward. Unlike the “crash test dummies” most people are not sitting completely erect when the crash occurs. Although most bumpers are built to withstand a low impact (with limited visible damage) the body gets snapped around and the body sustains “Soft Tissue” injuries – - including bruises, plus chest and rib injuries.
Often, insurance companies will deny that there is a personal injury claim when there has been little property damage. The reasoning for not paying the claim is often based on the idea that if the car is not damaged, how could the occupant be? The human body is not built like a vehicle. Unlike factory standards of the cars coming off assembly line, every body is different is size, shape and pre-existing conditions that affect the outcome of a crash. If you need help navigating a personal injury claim on a low impact collision, contact a Florida personal injury lawyer.
