Injured In A Car Accident? Put 35 Years Of Experience On Your Side.
The realization that you’ve been in a serious car accident can be overwhelming. After the crash, what do you do now? Seeking medical treatment right away is important, so see a doctor if you have not done so already. Once you’re medically stable, get in touch with the law office of Robert S. Andrews, Jr. Attorney at Law in Cranberry Township.
Serving Western Pennsylvania as a car accident attorney, I offer legal support. I am attorney Robert S. Andrews Jr., and for nearly 35 years, I’ve helped injured individuals in Butler, Allegheny and Beaver counties secure the compensation required for their recovery and healing following an accident.
Driver Safety And Behavior In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania roadways see thousands of accidents each year, many resulting from preventable behaviors and circumstances. Even when you prioritize safety on the road, negligent drivers can cause unexpected collisions.
The frequent causes I encounter as a car accident attorney and personal injury lawyer include:
- Distracted driving: Using cellphones, texting, eating or adjusting controls takes attention from driving
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs severely affects reaction time and judgment
- Speeding: Driving above the limit or too fast for conditions reduces control and increases the stopping distance
- Reckless driving: Engaging in aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving and running red lights
- Weather conditions: Negligent drivers going too fast for adverse road conditions such as rain, snow, ice and fog
- Fatigue: Driving while drowsy impairs reaction time, similar to alcohol
- Vehicle defects: Accidents resulting from faulty brakes, tire blowouts or steering malfunctions
Liability for a car accident often rests with the individual who engaged in the actions listed above. To illustrate, a driver who was texting and caused a rear-end collision is typically responsible for the resulting damages. In instances where vehicle defects contribute to an accident, manufacturers or maintenance providers may also share legal responsibility.
Why You Need An Attorney After A Car Collision
There are many reasons that you need an attorney to protect your rights after a car accident. I can help you with:
- Gathering medical records and related documents
- Finding medical care
- Seeking to defer medical bills until the lawsuit is settled or you receive a jury award
- Managing the insurance company lawyers and adjusters
- Examining the evidence from the crash
- Determining who is liable for your losses
- Handling the entire legal process
- Negotiating a favorable settlement or litigating the case at trial
Knowing how to protect your rights and interests after a car accident is important. Working with an experienced lawyer is the most important step.
Addressing Liability And Insurance Claims
After an accident, I help clients identify the liable party or parties, including:
- Negligent drivers who violated traffic laws
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers in cases involving defects
- Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions
- Commercial vehicle companies for accidents involving their trucks
- Third parties who contributed to dangerous conditions
Car accident claims can be complicated. As your car accident attorney, I’ll handle the insurance company if they’re not being fair and trying to blame you or pay less. I will use my knowledge of Pennsylvania tort law to protect your right to seek complete car crash compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered By A Car Accident Attorney
Having clear information is essential when managing the consequences of a car accident. Here are some common questions I receive from clients seeking help after a collision.
What evidence should I collect at the scene of a car accident to strengthen my claim?
With your car accident attorney, collect photos, contact/insurance details, witness info and the police report. This evidence is the foundation for your compensation claim and shows a complete picture of the accident.
How does Pennsylvania’s limited tort option affect my ability to recover compensation?
With limited tort insurance, you can only sue for pain and suffering if you have a “serious injury.” This option is restrictive, as it limits your right to sue for lower premiums. Fortunately, limited tort has exceptions that allow you to sue, including severe injuries, death or DUI.
What factors should I consider before responding to an insurance settlement offer?
During settlement negotiations, consider whether the offer covers all your medical expenses (now and in the future), the income you’ve lost, and addresses your pain and suffering. Keep in mind that accepting a settlement means you can’t ask for more later.
Consult with your car accident attorney before responding, as initial settlement offers are usually less than what your case is worth.
Get Help From A Trusted Car Accident Attorney
Insurance companies and negligent drivers won’t hesitate to protect their interests after a car accident. You shouldn’t wait to protect yours. Call 724-460-0400 or complete this online form to start your claim for compensation. I can meet you at my Pittsburgh office when needed.