Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer
Philadelphia car accident lawyer Leonard Hill and his legal team at Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers, P.C. represent all auto accident victims injured in preventable collisions.
Most collisions are not true accidents—instead, they are preventable crashes that happen when drivers fail to use reasonable caution.
An accident can happen at any time of day and anywhere. In the aftermath of a serious crash, victims often wonder how they will pay for medical treatment and begin the long road to recovery. We can help you find sound medical treatment, negotiate with insurance representatives, and hold the responsible parties liable for their actions.
Whether an auto defect caused a single-car crash or a distracted driver caused a head-on collision, our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys will thoroughly investigate all possible avenues for legal recourse to protect your rights.
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Philadelphia Car Accident Guide
- Common Causes of Car Crashes
- What to Do After a Wreck
- Types of Motor Vehicle Injuries
- Proving Fault in a Car Accident
- Holding Dangerous Philadelphia Drivers Accountable for Their Actions
- Pennsylvania’s Insurance System
- How to File an Auto Insurance Claim in Pennsylvania
- Call a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney for Help
- FAQ: Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer
- Reach out a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer for Help
Common Causes of Car Crashes
Car crashes often involve multiple contributing factors. A driver may engage in several reckless driving activities leading up to an accident. Some of the most common contributing factors we see in these claims include:
- Speed. Speed makes any other negligent driving behavior more dangerous.
- Distracted driving. Distractions include any activity that takes away attention from the roadways including using a mobile device, eating, digging around in a purse, applying makeup, and other non-driving activities.
- Intoxication. Alcohol and drugs impair reaction times, judgment, and perception. Drunk drivers often fail to follow the rules of the road and cause serious and deadly accidents.
- Carelessness. Some drivers simply do not obey the rules of the road. They fail to follow traffic signals, to maintain lanes, and to follow other marked rules.
When careless drivers contribute to accidents, they must face accountability for their actions.
Often, a legal claim provides the only sense of justice and closure an accident victim will receive. Allow a Philadelphia car accident attorney at Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers, P.C. to make this difficult time more bearable.
Car accident injuries sustained at any time are life-changing.
What to Do After a Wreck
After a wreck, gather as much information as possible. Take pictures of everything, record contact information for everyone on the scene (other drivers, officers, EMTs, and witnesses), gather your personal belongings, and always seek medical attention.
Write down a detailed version of events as soon as you find time. If you suffer a serious injury at the hands of another, consider discussing your legal options with a personal injury lawyer well-versed in car accident claims.
At Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers, P.C., we provide complete accident support and are here to protect your rights, your future, and your recovery following a Pennsylvania or New Jersey accident. You can trust us to provide straightforward and actionable legal information that you can use to begin the recovery process.
Types of Motor Vehicle Injuries
Common injuries involve broken bones, life-changing pain, whiplash, spinal cord injuries, neck problems, severe burns, disfigurement, brain injuries, amputations, and in severe accidents, even paralysis or death.
As a result of becoming a victim of an auto accident, you may suffer for the rest of your life, incurring enormous bills for medical treatment and physical therapy, as well as treatment for depression and anxiety due to the intense psychological impact of an accident.
If you have been injured in an accident, you probably feel overwhelmed. You may be confronted with major financial difficulties, disability, and unethical insurance companies, all while trying to recover from your injuries, causing you to lose out both financially and psychologically. Many victims take years to recover from an automobile accident.
Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers are here to make that recovery as easy on you as possible.
Proving Fault in a Car Accident
There are four main elements a plaintiff (injured party) must have to prove someone else’s fault for a car collision. First, that the defendant (responsible party) owed the plaintiff a duty of care. All drivers owe others around them a duty of care to reasonably prevent harm.
They must follow roadway rules, drive prudently, and obey state and local laws. Other parties, such as vehicle part manufacturers, owe duties to produce safe goods for consumers.
Duties of care will vary depending on the defendant’s relationship to the plaintiff.
The second element is a breach of duty of care. The plaintiff needs evidence the driver or other party breached his/her/its duties in some manner. A breach is any action or behavior that falls short of accepted standards of care for the situation. A breach could take the form of distracted driving or Philadelphia’s failure to maintain a roadway.
It is some form of negligence, recklessness, or unlawful act that contributes to the accident.
The third and fourth elements are causation and damages.
The defendant’s breach of duty must be the proximate cause of the crash. The plaintiff must have sustained real, compensable damages in the accident. These include personal injuries, medical bills, lost wages from missed time at work, emotional distress, and property damage.
There may be additional or different elements the law requires to prove fault in a car accident depending on the circumstances. Talk to an attorney.
Holding Dangerous Philadelphia Drivers Accountable for Their Actions
Because it can be devastating to suffer injuries at the hands of a negligent driver, the law provides you the right make a claim for damages. Damages may be awarded to help cover medical bills, physical rehabilitation services, pain and suffering, and lost wages due to the accident.
Insurance companies are quick to work hard to convince victims of motor vehicle accidents to settle for as little as possible, but a qualified Philadelphia personal injury lawyer well-versed in car and truck accidents will protect you from unfair and insufficient compensation.
With nearly twenty years of experience representing victims of personal injury and wrongful death as a result of automobile accidents, the legal team at Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers will fight aggressively to ensure that you receive the award that you need to rebuild your life after a serious injury.
The Statute of Limitations
The “statute of limitations” on crash claims refers to the deadline an injured victim has to file. Each state abides by its own statutes of limitations, and there are different deadlines depending on the type of claim.
To file a car accident personal injury claim in Pennsylvania, you must do so within two years of the date of the crash or of the date you discover your injuries.
If the crash causes a loved one’s death, you have two years from the date of the death to file a claim. Give yourself plenty of time to file your claim by speaking to a lawyer without delay.
Pennsylvania’s Insurance System
In the state of Pennsylvania, we operate using choice no-fault car insurance options. A driver here can choose to participate in the no-fault system and invest in insurance policies that include personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. No-fault car insurance ensures you can always count on your coverage to pay for personal injury costs.
This option does limit drivers from pursuing legal claims against at-fault drivers. The state only permits no-fault system participants to file a lawsuit in accidents involving serious or catastrophic injury.
Alternatively, drivers can opt out of the no-fault system and invest in traditional car insurance. Traditional insurance policies do not include PIP coverage and may only provide coverage for the minimum state liability requirements. In accidents involving traditional insurance, a driver can file a legal claim against an at-fault driver and recover damages.
Insurance coverage often plays a major role in the amount of compensation an injured accident victim receives. At Hill & Associates, P.C., we routinely help our clients navigate the complexities of insurance after a crash.
A Philadelphia car accident attorney at our firm can represent you in front of insurance adjustors, hold insurance companies accountable for good faith practices, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation owed according to policy coverage.
How to File an Auto Insurance Claim in Pennsylvania
One of the first things you’ll do after a car crash is file a claim with your vehicle insurer. You will need to contact your insurance provider using the phone number on your card. Have your name and policy number ready. The company will assign your case to a professional who will work on your claim. An insurance claims agent will ask you for details of the crash, including the date and time, location, names of other drivers and passengers, and drivers’ licenses and license plate numbers for all drivers.
The agent may ask you to issue a sworn statement about the accident. The law does not obligate you to do so, and you should not until you speak to a skilled Philadelphia car accident attorney. The claims adjuster could use what you say in this statement against you.
After you speak to your company about the crash, you may need to wait for a claims professional to evaluate your case, including checking out property damage and medical records.
Then, the company may contact you to try to resolve your claim. Feel free to speak to one of our attorneys at any time before, during, or after filing your auto insurance claim in Pennsylvania.
Call a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney for Help
Auto accidents may be some of the most common grounds for personal injury claims, but that doesn’t make them simple. Each accident is unique and comes with a slew of questions the plaintiff must answer. A legal professional can serve as an invaluable asset throughout the car crash claims process in Philadelphia.
Attorneys understand state laws, local laws, procedural rules, and can navigate them on your behalf. With a caring, dedicated attorney representing your best interests, you can relax and begin the fight for compensation with confidence.
Because it can be devastating to suffer injuries at the hands of a negligent driver, the law provides you the right make a claim for damages. Damages may be awarded to help cover medical bills, physical rehabilitation services, pain and suffering, and lost wages due to the accident.
Insurance companies are quick to work hard to convince victims of motor a vehicle accidents to settle for as little as possible, but a qualified Philadelphia car accident lawyer will protect you from unfair and insufficient compensation.
With nearly 20 of experience representing victims of personal injury and wrongful death as a result of automobile accidents, the legal team at Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers, P.C. will fight aggressively to ensure that you receive the award that you need to rebuild your life after a serious injury.
Call our office at (215) 567-7600 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Why You Need a Local Lawyer
Choosing a local Philadelphia car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A local attorney brings several advantages that out-of-town or national firms may not offer:
- In-Depth Knowledge of Local Laws: Car accident laws can vary by state and even by city. A local attorney is well-versed in Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws, including the nuances of Philadelphia’s court system, insurance requirements, and liability rules. This expertise allows your attorney to navigate the legal process more efficiently.
- Familiarity with Local Courts and Judges: An experienced local lawyer knows the judges, court staff, and legal procedures unique to Philadelphia. This familiarity can be an asset when preparing your case, as they understand how to present your claim in the most effective manner within the local legal framework.
- Relationships with Insurance Companies: Local attorneys often have established relationships with insurance companies that regularly handle claims in the area. This can streamline negotiations and increase the likelihood of securing a fair settlement, as the insurer knows the attorney’s reputation for successfully advocating for clients.
- Convenience and Accessibility: When you hire a local lawyer, you have the convenience of meeting with them in person to discuss your case. Whether you need to drop off documents, attend consultations, or get quick updates, a local office ensures that help is never far away.
- Understanding of Local Road Conditions and Accident Hotspots: A lawyer who is familiar with Philadelphia’s roadways, traffic patterns, and accident-prone areas can bring unique insight into your case. They may be able to use their knowledge of dangerous intersections or poorly maintained roads to strengthen your claim.
- Community Ties and Reputation: A local lawyer is invested in the community and has a reputation to uphold. They are more likely to provide personalized service and go the extra mile to ensure their clients are satisfied, as their success is often built on word-of-mouth and local referrals.
Choosing a local Philadelphia car accident lawyer means working with someone who understands your needs, your community, and how to secure the compensation you deserve.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Philadelphia?
- Ensure safety and call 911 for medical assistance if needed
- File an accident report with the police
- Document the scene (photos, witness information)
- Seek medical treatment, even for minor injuries
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney in Philadelphia
How can a Philadelphia car accident lawyer help me?
An experienced car accident attorney can:
- Investigate your case thoroughly
- Handle communication with the insurance company
- Gather evidence and medical records
- Calculate fair compensation for your injuries
- Negotiate settlements or represent you in a car accident lawsuit
What types of compensation can I recover in a car accident case?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future medical treatment
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence)
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Philadelphia?
Under Pennsylvania law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to consult with a Philadelphia car accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
What if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured?
If you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your own insurance policy may provide coverage. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate these complex situations and explore all available options for compensation.
How much does it cost to hire a Philadelphia car accident lawyer?
Most Philadelphia car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Initial consultations are typically free, allowing you to discuss your case without financial risk.
What if I was partially at fault for the car accident?
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages as long as you’re less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How long will my car accident case take to resolve?
The duration of a car accident case varies depending on factors such as the severity of injuries, complexity of the case, and willingness of the insurance company to offer fair compensation. Some cases settle quickly, while others may take months or even years if they go to trial.
What if the accident was caused by a drunk or distracted driver?
If your accident was caused by a drunk or distracted driver, you may have a stronger case for compensation, including potential punitive damages. An experienced car accident attorney can help you build a solid case against the negligent driver.
Should I accept the insurance company’s initial settlement offer?
It’s generally not advisable to accept an initial settlement offer without consulting a car accident lawyer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and an experienced attorney can help ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
What qualifies as a serious car accident?
A serious car accident typically involves:
- Severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment
- Long-term or permanent disabilities
- Significant property damage
- Fatalities These cases often result in higher compensation and may require more complex legal strategies. An experienced personal injury law firm can help navigate such serious car accident cases.
How do I choose the right Philadelphia car accident attorney for my case?
When selecting a car accident lawyer in Philadelphia, consider:
- Experience handling car accident cases
- Track record of successful settlements and verdicts
- Knowledge of Pennsylvania law and local court systems
- Resources to thoroughly investigate and litigate your case
- Communication style and willingness to answer your questions Look for an experienced personal injury attorney who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to handle your case.
What role do medical records play in a car accident claim?
Medical records are crucial in a car accident claim as they:
- Document the injuries sustained in the accident
- Provide evidence of the medical treatment received
- Help establish the severity of your injuries
- Support claims for current and future medical expenses
- Demonstrate the impact of injuries on your daily life An experienced car accident attorney will help gather and present these records effectively to support your claim for fair compensation.
How are lost wages calculated in a Philadelphia car accident case?
Lost wages in a car accident case may include:
- Income lost due to missed work during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
- Future lost wages if you’re unable to work long-term Your car accident lawyer will work with economic experts to calculate these losses accurately, ensuring you’re compensated for both current and future financial impacts of the accident.
What is the importance of the accident report in a car accident case?
The accident report is a crucial document that:
- Provides an official record of the car crash
- Contains details about the accident scene and conditions
- Includes statements from involved parties and witnesses
- May indicate the responding officer’s assessment of fault
- Can be used as evidence in your car accident claim or lawsuit Your Philadelphia car accident attorney will obtain and analyze this report as part of building your case.
How does Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system affect my car accident claim?
Pennsylvania follows a choice no-fault insurance system, which means:
- You can choose between full tort and limited tort coverage
- With limited tort, you’re restricted in your ability to sue for pain and suffering
- Full tort coverage allows you to sue for all damages, including pain and suffering
- Even with limited tort, you can still sue for economic damages like medical bills and lost wages An experienced car accident attorney can explain how your choice of insurance coverage affects your claim and help you pursue the maximum compensation available under Pennsylvania law.
Reach out a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer for Help
Car accidents may be some of the most common grounds for personal injury claims, but that doesn’t make them simple. Each accident is unique and comes with a slew of questions the plaintiff must answer. A legal professional can serve as an invaluable asset throughout the car crash claims process in Philadelphia.
Attorneys understand state laws, local laws, procedural rules, and can navigate them on your behalf. With a caring, dedicated attorney representing your best interests, you can relax and begin the fight for compensation with confidence.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Hill & Associates – Leonard Hill Personal Injury Lawyers And Car Accident Lawyers – Philadelphia Office
1700 Market Street, Suite 3150
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Ph: (215) 567-7600