Many people spend a lot of time in their vehicles and, because of this, may experience a car accident at some point in their lifetime. Although driving can be a dangerous activity, certain behaviors make the roadways even riskier.
There are multiple reasons why a car accident might occur, and not all of them point to driver error. Sometimes there are conditions outside the vehicle that play a major role in the cause of an accident. However, there are accidents caused by irresponsible drivers. Causes of car accidents include the following:
Not all accidents are the result of problems with the driver. There are some instances when outside factors can lead to a problem on the road, such as:
Accidents can range in severity from minor fender benders to multiple-car pileups. These accidents can lead to a variety of issues, from minor injuries to permanent injury and even death. The various types of car accidents are as follows:
When someone is injured in a car accident, their entire life can change, and they could be facing a financial hardship for which they were not prepared. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer can help make sure that the victim and their family are not impacted financially because of the accident. When a lawyer takes the case, there are a few financial areas that will be addressed so that the victim can recoup any losses sustained:
A victim’s family has two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a car accident. However, only certain individuals are eligible to file such a suit. Immediate family is the first group, which includes spouses, children, parents, and grandparents. The next group is extended family that might have been dependent on the deceased. Lastly, heirs or administrators of the deceased’s estate may sue.
It is important to reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible so that they can work with the family to build a strong case with plenty of time before the two-year deadline expires.
It can be a traumatic experience to be involved in an accident. As stressful as it might be, it is important that the victim remains calm and follows a few simple steps. Following these steps will enable the victim to better collect evidence and data that will be needed in pursuing the case:
The types of injuries someone can sustain during an accident can range from mild to severe. If you feel pain or discomfort, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get an official diagnosis. If someone is severely injured at the scene, it is important not to move until help arrives. EMTs on the scene will know how best to move a victim so not to exacerbate their injuries. Common types of car accident injuries include:
When on the road, drivers need to be mindful of all vehicles around them. Another driver’s carelessness can lead to an accident. Types of accidents involving other vehicles include the following:
There are certain steps that drivers can take to avoid the conditions that lead to an accident. Motorists should always remain focused on the road whenever they are driving. If the phone is too much of a distraction, notifications can be turned off until it is safe to use the phone. If someone has been out drinking, they should not drive. Consider a taxi, rideshare service, or designated driver.
If a major storm develops while someone is driving or visibility suddenly deteriorates, the best move is to pull over until the visibility improves. It might make sense to find a place to spend a few hours or the night until conditions improve.
The laws in Pennsylvania have changed dramatically in recent years and the insurance coverage you choose will drastically affect whether you and your family are protected in the event of an accident. Our clients often say they are “fully covered” for accidents. Too often, they find out later they are not protected. It is up to you to make the right choices about insurance coverage. The best way for you to make these choices is to understand exactly what you are buying and whether you need it.
Every insurance policy comes with a “Declaration Sheet” that lists the coverage you have. This usually is one or two pages with individual typewritten, not pre-printed, information. It is a kind of laundry list that tells you the specific types of coverage you have; the amount of each type of coverage; and the cost, or premium, of each coverage for each vehicle on the policy.
You need to understand this “Declaration Sheet” and know the coverage options it sets out. Although an insurance agent can sometimes offer useful information, you are the one who makes the ultimate decisions about the coverage that is important to you.
The best way to understand insurance coverages is to think of your insurance policy as a large chest of drawers. Each drawer represents a type of coverage. You have the: Liability (Bodily Injury) Drawer; Underinsured Motorist Drawer; Property Damage Drawer; and so on.
You must decide how much coverage you need and can afford for each drawer. Just because one drawer has a lot of coverage does not mean that they all do. Likewise, there may be drawers that have coverage you do not want or need. Keep in mind that you pay for every drawer that has something in it. You will see on your Declaration Sheet that there is a separate charge, or premium, for each coverage. These all are added up at the bottom for a total annual, or six-month premium.
Below are some of the different coverages you will find on most insurance policies.
Car accidents are common in Philadelphia, and can occur anywhere, though there are a few traffic spots in Philadelphia that regularly record higher crash rates than others. According to data from PennDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, certain stretches of roadways and specific intersections see the most car crashes with fatal outcomes. The deadliest road in Philadelphia is consistently the 11-mile length of Roosevelt Boulevard that runs through the city. This stretch of road sees the most fatal car crashes in the entire state of Pennsylvania.
Other consistently dangerous roads in Philadelphia include:
In addition to being jam-packed with hectic roads, Philadelphia is also home to many busy intersections. Car crashes that occur at intersections often have the most catastrophic outcomes, especially when they involve fatal head-on collisions.
The most dangerous intersections in Philadelphia include:
Whether a car accident happens on one of Philadelphia’s hectic roadways or at a hazardous intersection, injuries and damages can be devastating and require the assistance of an experienced lawyer.
Car accident settlement amounts vary greatly from case to case in Philadelphia.
To determine the value of your car accident matter, it is essential review your case with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer. It is important to review and consider several factors with an attorney who is experienced in going up against insurance companies and opposing counsel.
The amount of damages and compensation you may receive depends upon the following:
It is never wise to try to settle a car accident lawsuit on your own. Dealing with insurance companies and the other parties’ attorneys without the guidance of a skilled lawyer can not only be complicated, but it can also cost you the full and fair compensation you need.
Damages and compensation that can be sought after being involved in a car accident include:
Every lawsuit is different, and a dedicated attorney will give you the personal attention you deserve, while securing the best possible financial outcome for your car accident case.
After a car accident, your primary concern should be getting healthy again, both physically and mentally. Our lawyers understand that your health is always your top priority, and we can help you while you recover. While you focus on getting well, let us focus on holding the at-fault driver responsible for your accident and related injury.
Our caring legal team understands the stress and worry you may be under after a severe collision. Medical bills can be staggering, especially if your injury requires surgery, a hospital stay, therapy, and other costly treatments. Also, if your injury made you unable to work short-term or long-term, the loss of income only adds to your financial stress and worries.
We do not want you to carry your burdens alone. If you have been injured in a collision, you can contact our legal team. If you have a valid legal claim, we will get to work right away for you, and you may be able to get compensation for medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. The legal process may seem overwhelming and daunting, but we will fearlessly fight on your behalf with confidence.
When someone else’s negligence affects your life, our lawyers will stand by your side and protect your rights. It is simply not fair for you to suddenly face huge medical bills and other losses because someone else was negligent and caused your accident and injury.
Our legal team knows the tactics insurance companies use to get out of paying compensation to those injured in car accidents. We defend our clients every day against insurers’ unfair practices. We have the experience, skill, and resources to work toward a successful financial settlement that will help you breathe easier. Our track record speaks for itself.
Our lawyers will handle your unique case professionally from start to finish. Some of our strengths include:
If you were injured in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP. We will determine who is responsible for causing the accident and ensure that you receive the assistance you deserve. Our dedicated team will explain the claims process and address all your questions and concerns. For a free consultation, call 800-222-8792 or contact us online. From our offices in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, we proudly help clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including Allentown and Harrisburg.