Car Accident Lawyer Philadelphia

Car accidents are one of the most common causes of serious injury in the United States. Even if you are as careful as possible and adhere to all the rules of the road, the odds are still against you, and you could be blindsided by a negligent, distracted, or intoxicated motorist. What can you do to set things right after being unfairly hurt by another driver?

If you live in Pennsylvania, you can contact me, Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorney Michael P. Forbes, for assistance. I have a passion for helping clients through difficult times. When I see that my clients receive the compensation they deserve after an injury, I know I've done a job well done.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Philadelphia

Building your lawsuit will depend greatly on your ability to prove the cause of your car accident was not your own mistake. For every person out on the road, there is another way a traffic collision can be caused. There are a few causes that are more common than others, and being able to identify the cause early on can help your chances of receiving a fair settlement from interested insurance companies.

Car accidents result from various factors, many of which relate to driver behavior. For instance, aggressive driving and road rage incidents are on the rise and can lead to dangerous situations. 

Drivers failing to adhere to traffic signals, making unsafe lane changes, or engaging in distracted driving, such as eating behind the wheel, also contribute to the risks. Additionally, poorly maintained vehicles can cause accidents, as malfunctioning brakes or worn-out tires pose significant dangers on the road.

What to Do Right After a Car Accident

Knowing how a car accident can be caused is important, yet proving how it happened is all the more critical. After any collision, no matter how severe or minor, you need to start thinking about how to build your claim. 

In general, there are a few steps you should take to help you do this without missing something significant.

• Call for Help: Any injury should be addressed as soon as possible. This means getting emergency medical responders to the scene immediately. If you are treated, keep a record of the paramedic's report for your own case filing.
• Notify the Authorities: The police should also be brought to any serious accident site. With the police there, drunk or texting drivers can be detained, oncoming traffic can be directed away from your vehicles, and they can write up a police report that you can use as evidence.
• Take Pictures: Get your smartphone out and start snapping photographs of the damage from every possible angle, without wandering into the street. Be sure to get images of the surrounding environment in case the weather or road conditions were a contributing factor.
• Talk to Onlookers: People who have stopped to help or look at the wreckage may have seen more than you know. Speak to them and ask for eyewitness testimonies when appropriate. You might be surprised to learn how many passersby are actually good Samaritans.

Additionally, it is important to contact your insurance company promptly to report the accident. While providing necessary details, ensure that you are factual and do not admit fault. This initial report can start the claim process and provide a record that will be useful during legal proceedings. Furthermore, consider documenting all communication with insurers and medical professionals, as these records might be invaluable later.

Understanding Pennsylvania Car Accident Laws with a Local Attorney

Pennsylvania operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that after a car accident, your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance will cover medical expenses regardless of who was at fault. However, there are exceptions where individuals can step outside of this system and pursue litigation for additional damages, particularly if the injury is severe or meets certain thresholds defined by state law.

In Pennsylvania, drivers can choose between full tort and limited tort insurance policies. The full tort option permits policyholders to retain the unrestricted right to file a lawsuit and claim pain and suffering damages post-accident. 

On the other hand, limited tort options offer lower premiums but restrict the ability to sue for pain and suffering unless the injury is deemed serious. Knowing these options is crucial for protecting your rights after an accident with the guidance of a skilled vehicle accident lawyer in Philadelphia.

Local Challenges on Philadelphia Roads

Driving in Philadelphia presents unique challenges that contribute to car accidents. The city's infrastructure, characterized by narrow streets and dense traffic, often causes congestion and increases the likelihood of collisions. Weather conditions such as snow and ice further complicate driving, making roadways hazardous and requiring heightened driver attention.

Moreover, Philadelphia’s vibrant cycling community means drivers must be vigilant of cyclists sharing the road. Accidents can easily occur if drivers aren't attentive to cyclists, especially in areas with limited bike lanes. Understanding these local road dynamics is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to reduce accident risks effectively, and a knowledgeable Philadelphia car accident attorney can help navigate these complexities.

Retaining Your Right to Fair Compensation with a Car Accident Attorney

After an accident, ensuring fair compensation can be challenging, given the complexity of insurance policies and the determination of liability. Retaining a seasoned car accident attorney in Philadelphia is imperative for navigating these complexities. A lawyer will thoroughly analyze the accident's circumstances, collaborate with professionals to reconstruct accident scenes if necessary, and handle all communication with insurance adjusters.

Through effective representation, a lawyer can help seek financial recovery not only for medical expenses but also for lost wages, property damage, and, where applicable, pain and suffering. By empowering clients with knowledge and acting swiftly, you can protect your rights and enhance prospects for a satisfactory settlement in line with legal entitlements.

Contact a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer You Can Trust

Before you talk to your insurance company, you should talk to a Philadelphia car accident lawyer from my law firm. We can tell you what should and should not be said to insurers, who are likely to try to do everything they can to offer you as little as possible. If initial negotiations do not lead to a fair settlement, I can prepare your case for litigation. The opposition will find quite quickly that I am not a litigator they want to take on.

Choosing the right car accident attorney in Philadelphia can make a significant difference in the outcome of your situation. A dedicated attorney will not only guide you through the complexities of negotiation and settlements but also stand by your side to handle any disputes. By understanding your unique circumstances and applying researched strategies, your attorney can significantly increase the potential for a favorable resolution.

FAQs: Car Accidents in Philadelphia

What Should I Do If the Other Driver Is Uninsured in Philadelphia?

In the event the other driver involved in your accident is uninsured, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help. This part of your insurance policy is designed to cover damages if the at-fault driver lacks insurance. In Pennsylvania, it is advisable, though not mandated, to carry UM coverage as part of your policy. It ensures that even when the responsible party is uninsured, you still have a financial pathway for recovering damages. Consulting a vehicle accident lawyer in Philadelphia can provide further insight into these situations.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law sets the statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims at two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a two-year window to initiate legal action seeking compensation for injuries or damages resulting from the accident. Failing to file within this period can forfeit your ability to pursue a claim. Therefore, it’s critical to connect with a car accident lawyer in Philadelphia promptly to ensure timely action and preserve your rights.

What Types of Compensation Can I Seek After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, you may be eligible for various types of compensation depending on the accident's impact. Typically, compensation can cover medical expenses for treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care if needed. Additionally, you may claim lost wages if the injuries impede your ability to work. Property damage, pain and suffering, and, in some instances, punitive damages related to gross negligence might also be sought. Consulting with a legal professional in Philadelphia can help clarify which compensations are applicable to your scenario.

Will My Insurance Premiums Increase After Filing a Claim?

Whether insurance premiums increase post-claim largely depends on your insurance provider's policies and the accident's details. If you aren't at fault, certain insurers may not raise rates, particularly if you have accident forgiveness. However, an at-fault determination typically results in higher premiums. Reviewing your policy and discussing contingencies with your insurance provider will give you a clearer picture of potential rate changes. A Philadelphia car accident attorney can also provide guidance on this matter.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer in Philadelphia Assist With Insurance Negotiations?

A lawyer plays a crucial role in ensuring fair dealings with insurance companies. They will gather all necessary evidence to support your claim, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. By presenting a solid case, your lawyer can counter low-ball offers and insist on a settlement reflective of your actual losses. Lawyers are adept at identifying bad faith insurance practices and can take legal action to safeguard your interests against unjust behaviors, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.