Car Accidents: Pursuing Your Interests After A Collision
The realization that you’ve been in a serious car accident can be overwhelming. After the crash, what do you do now? To protect your legal rights, move to safety if possible and call 911 immediately. Once you’re medically stable, get in touch with Robert S. Andrews, Jr. Attorney at Law in Cranberry Township.
Serving Western Pennsylvania as a car accident attorney, I offer legal support. 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. In 2024 alone, Pennsylvania recorded 1,127 traffic fatalities, which, while representing a decrease from previous years, still highlights the dangers motorists face every day.
Even when you prioritize safety on the road, negligent drivers can cause unexpected collisions. Knowing how to protect your rights and interests after such an event is important.
Common Causes Of Car Collisions
The frequent causes I encounter as a car accident attorney and personal injury lawyer include:
- Distracted driving: Using cell phones, 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: Hazardous road conditions caused by 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.
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 help figure out who was responsible for the crash. I’ll also handle the insurance company if they’re not being fair and try 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 dealing with 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.