Car Accident Claims: Your Guide to Compensation in Pennsylvania

A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. The aftermath often leaves you dealing with medical bills, vehicle damage, lost wages, and emotional distress. Navigating the legal process might feel overwhelming, especially while trying to recover. If the crash was caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation, and understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting them.

We know this is a challenging time. We are here to help you understand the process of filing a car accident claim in Pennsylvania, including the types of compensation available and how an experienced attorney can assist you.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s No-Fault System

Pennsylvania follows a unique “choice no-fault” system for auto insurance. When drivers purchase their policy, they can choose between full tort and limited tort coverage. This decision affects the way compensation is pursued after an accident.

• Limited tort restricts your ability to sue for pain and suffering unless you meet certain exceptions, such as suffering a “serious injury.”
• Full tort allows you to file a claim for all damages, including pain and suffering, regardless of the injury's severity.

Your tort selection plays a major role in what kind of claim you can file, so it's important to know which type of coverage you have.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Pennsylvania

Car crashes occur for many reasons, but most can be traced back to negligence or driver error. Common contributing factors include:

• Distracted driving (such as texting or using apps)
• Speeding
• Driving under the influence
• Weather-related hazards
• Failing to yield or obey traffic signals
• Fatigued driving

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), over 115,000 traffic crashes occurred in 2023, resulting in nearly 1,100 fatalities. Many of these accidents were preventable.

What to Do After a Car Accident in PA

What you do in the minutes, hours, and days following a crash can significantly affect your claim. Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Call 911 and report the accident.
2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine, some injuries surface later.
3. Exchange information with the other driver(s), including contact and insurance details.
4. Take photos of the vehicles, scene, and any visible injuries.
5. File a report with the police and request a copy.
6. Contact your insurance company to report the accident.
7. Speak with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offers.

Remember: anything you say to an insurer can be used to minimize your claim. Talking with a car accident lawyer first ensures your rights are protected.

Types of Compensation Available

If you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation, including:

Medical Expenses

This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medication, and any future medical treatment related to your injuries.

Lost Wages and Future Income

If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to recover lost wages and the loss of earning capacity.

Pain and Suffering

While more difficult to quantify, you may also receive compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.

Property Damage

This covers repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any damaged belongings.

Wrongful Death Damages

If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related losses.

Filing a Claim: The Process

1. Investigate the Accident

An attorney will review police reports, speak to witnesses, and gather critical evidence like video footage or accident reconstructions.

2. Evaluate Damages

Your legal team will calculate both economic and non-economic losses to understand what your case is truly worth.

3. Communicate with Insurance Companies

Insurers often try to offer quick, low settlements. An attorney can handle these conversations to protect your best interests.

4. Negotiate or Litigate

Many cases settle out of court, but if a fair agreement isn’t reached, your attorney can take your case to trial.

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident injury claim is generally two years from the date of the crash. Acting quickly is essential.

The Role of a Car Accident Attorney

Having a skilled personal injury lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Legal professionals are equipped to:

• Handle the legal details so you can focus on healing
• Investigate thoroughly to build a strong case
• Negotiate assertively with insurers
• Ensure no deadlines or procedures are missed
• Represent your interests in court if necessary

Most importantly, a compassionate legal team understands what you’re going through and works tirelessly to get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Legal and Emotional Support When You Need It Most

The aftermath of a car accident can feel isolating, painful, and uncertain. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. An experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and advocate for the compensation you’re entitled to.

Edelstein, Martin & Nelson has been representing injury victims across Pennsylvania for years. Their legal team is committed to helping clients recover physically, emotionally, and financially after a serious accident. They’re available 24/7 to support you and answer your questions whenever you need help most.

There are no fees unless they win, and every case starts with a 100% free consultation. You don’t have to wait to get clarity on your next steps.

Schedule a call today at 888-630-4409. Edelstein, Martin & Nelson is ready to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.