It’s never a comfortable situation to deal with when you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident. You want to do the right thing but may be uncertain about what your next moves should be.
The sheer amount of information on the topic may be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never been through this process before. That’s why we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions about car accidents to help walk you through this stressful ordeal a little bit faster.
How much money can I expect from my car accident claim?
The severity of your injuries, the type of insurance policy the defendant has, and how much money the driver has if they are uninsured are all variables in determining how much compensation you can expect.
Under Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence law, how much fault is assigned to the other driver also plays a role. For example, if you accept partial fault, that means the other driver will pay less for the damages they caused.
What’s the difference between economic and non-economic damages?
Simply, economic damages cover the financial costs of your injuries, while your non-economic damages cover the emotional and mental suffering you’ve experienced because of your injuries. These damages should cover all the specific types of suffering you’ve experienced because of another person’s negligence.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Philadelphia?
It’s imperative to take steps to protect your rights so you are not held liable and also to ensure the at-fault party is held liable:
- Call 911 if there are injuries
- Call the police if there is property damage total of $1,000 or more
- Take pictures of the accident scene where possible, which can be helpful later when you talk to an insurance company or car accident attorney
- Get names, addresses, and phone numbers of witnesses because these people may be able to verify information about how fast vehicles were going, whether traffic lights were out, and more
- Write down what happened, who was involved, and who was hurt as soon as possible after the crash
What are the main causes of Philadelphia car accidents?
Knowing why the crash happened may help you gather evidence and prove liability, so you should be aware of any behaviors that may have led to your car accident. These include distracted driving, speeding, and alcohol use.
Determining what caused your car accident can be a key factor in determining liability. For example, if someone was texting and driving, they were being negligent behind the wheel. If that same person was on the job, however, their employer may be the one liable for the accident. Talk to your lawyer if you’re at all unsure about who’s at fault for your injuries.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after my car accident?
The statute of limitations to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Pennsylvania is two years, however, you shouldn’t wait that long. If you don’t file your claim in court within this time period, you may be denied compensation and the court may bar your claim.
Acting now can also help you maximize and take advantage of available evidence. Evidence may be lost or destroyed over time, so acting now, not later, can help you get the answers you need and get compensated for the suffering you experienced. File a claim and talk to a lawyer as soon as possible if you’re struggling to take action.
Who pays for medical bills after a car accident in Philadelphia?
Medical expenses are typically covered by the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy. Usually, the only way you would be held responsible for paying medical bills is if you were involved in a hit-and-run or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
What if I can’t afford an attorney?
When you’re hurt in a car accident, you may be worried about the costs of your recovery as well as the costs of a lawyer. Fortunately, our lawyers work on contingency. That means you and your lawyer will set an agreed-on percentage of your claim, and you’ll pay them that portion of your settlement. If you don’t win, your lawyer doesn’t get paid.
Get Answers from a Car Accident Lawyer in Philadelphia
If you have been injured in a car accident, please contact our firm. From its initial decision to accept your case through every step of litigation, Baratta Law, LLC will carefully handle your case and provide the highest level of professional service possible.
Ready to speak with a lawyer? Fill out our online form below or call 215-914-8132 for your free consultation.
