Many people spend a lot of time in their vehicles and, because of this, may experience an auto 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:
m 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 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.
$5,000 to $100,000. These medical expenses include hospitalization, surgical, chiropractic, ambulance, physical therapy, psychiatric, psychological, medications, medical supplies, prosthetic devices, audiology, speech pathology, osteopathic, dental, occupational therapy, optometric services, and nursing services. These bills should be paid by your insurance company within 30 days after it receives reasonable proof that the medical expense was required for necessary treatment
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.
A Message to Our Clients About Coronavirus COVID-19:
PLEASE READ »
At Galfand Berger, LLP we view the safety and well-being of our clients, staff, and business partners as our highest priority.
Our offices are now open. Visits are by appointment only. And, per state, municipal and CDC guidelines, all visitors to our firm must wear masks.
We are happy to arrange for phone or video consultations.
Should you have any concerns regarding an upcoming meeting with us, please call our firm at (800) 222-8792.
Thank you and take care.