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Category: Car Accident

  • Car Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers: Common Causes

    Car Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers: Common Causes

    As drivers age, physical and cognitive changes can affect their ability to operate a vehicle safely. While many older drivers remain cautious and responsible on the road, age-related conditions, medication side effects, and slower reaction times may increase the risk of traffic incidents. Recognizing the factors that contribute to accidents involving elderly drivers helps create awareness and supports safer driving practices.

    What Physical Changes Can Impact Driving Ability in Older Adults?

    Vision and hearing often decline with age, making it more difficult to detect hazards or respond to signals. Reduced muscle strength and joint flexibility may also affect steering, braking, and turning movements. These limitations can lengthen reaction times and make sudden maneuvers more challenging in fast-changing traffic conditions.

    How Does Slower Reaction Time Affect Accident Risk?

    Reaction time tends to increase with age due to changes in the nervous system. A slower response can be particularly dangerous in situations requiring quick judgment, such as avoiding an unexpected obstacle or responding to another driver’s actions. This delay can make it harder for elderly drivers to prevent collisions, especially at higher speeds or in congested areas.

    Can Medications Influence Driving Performance?

    Many older adults take prescription or over-the-counter medications that can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, or irritability. Certain drug combinations may intensify these side effects. When these impairments occur while driving, they can lead to decreased awareness, poor lane control, or difficulty maintaining an appropriate speed.

    Why Is Night Driving Often More Challenging for Elderly Drivers?

    This is due to reduced visual acuity in low-light conditions and increased sensitivity to glare from headlights. These factors can make it harder to detect pedestrians, read road signs, or judge distances accurately. Limited visibility at night may also contribute to slower responses in emergency situations.

    How Can Weather Conditions Affect Accident Risk for Elderly Drivers?

    Rain, snow, and fog can create slippery roads and reduce visibility, posing difficulties for drivers with slower reflexes or impaired vision. Older drivers may also have more trouble adapting to sudden changes in weather conditions. Reduced physical agility can make controlling the vehicle during skids or sudden stops more difficult.

    Can Distractions Contribute to Accidents with Elderly Drivers?

    While distractions affect drivers of all ages, older drivers may find it harder to divide attention between the road and other tasks. Adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, or using a phone can take focus away from driving. Even momentary lapses in attention can have serious consequences if traffic conditions change suddenly.

    Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Offer Sound Legal Guidance

    If you were involved in a motor vehicle crash and want to pursue compensation, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Call 856-843-8990 or contact us online for a free consultation today. We have offices in Milmont Park, PA, and Cherry Hill, NJ, and serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • What Are the Most Dangerous Roads for Drivers in Cherry Hill?

    What Are the Most Dangerous Roads for Drivers in Cherry Hill?

    Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is a busy suburban community with significant traffic volume due to its proximity to Philadelphia, its major highways, and frequent road construction. While most of the roads here are relatively safe, others have a higher likelihood of collisions. Drivers who travel through Cherry Hill should be aware of these areas so they can take extra precautions and avoid potential hazards.

    Haddonfield Road, Route 38, and Route 70 are among the roads with the highest number of reported crashes in Cherry Hill. These heavily traveled corridors carry local and commuter traffic, leading to congestion and an increased risk of rear-end collisions and side-impact crashes. Intersections along these routes also see a higher frequency of incidents due to multiple lanes, turning vehicles, and limited visibility.

    Why Is Route 70 Considered Hazardous for Drivers?

    Route 70 runs through the heart of Cherry Hill and connects several major business and shopping areas. Its high traffic volume, combined with multiple intersections, jug handles, U-turns, and frequent lane changes, makes it a challenging roadway for many drivers. Sudden stops, distracted driving, and improper merging contribute to the number of collisions reported along this corridor.

    What Makes Haddonfield Road Risky for Motorists?

    Haddonfield Road is particularly busy due to its high number of large retail centers and residential neighborhoods. Frequent entry and exit points, combined with periods of heavy congestion, create conditions where accidents are more likely to occur. Drivers encounter sudden stops, unpredictable lane changes, and merging conflicts, increasing the chances of multi-vehicle crashes.

    Are There Specific Intersections Known for High Crash Rates?

    Yes, several intersections in Cherry Hill have historically recorded higher accident numbers. The junction where Route 38 meets Haddonfield Road and the intersection of Route 70 with Springdale Road are two locations frequently cited in crash reports. Heavy traffic, limited sightlines, and multiple turning lanes create challenging driving conditions, particularly during peak hours.

    What Other Conditions Affect Safety on These Roads?

    Poor weather, like heavy rain, snow, and icy conditions, makes these already busy roads even more dangerous. On high-traffic routes like Route 70 and Route 38, reduced visibility and slippery surfaces increase the risk of rear-end collisions and skidding accidents. Around the holiday season, Route 38 and Haddonfield Road by the Cherry Hill Mall see significant traffic increases and higher accident rates.

    Does Distracted Driving Play a Role in Cherry Hill Accidents?

    Distracted driving is a significant factor in many crashes throughout Cherry Hill, particularly on busy roads where drivers need to remain highly attentive. Texting, adjusting in-car systems, and other distractions take focus away from changing traffic patterns. On roads like Haddonfield Road and Route 70, where quick decisions are frequently required, even a brief lapse in attention can lead to serious collisions.

    What Can Drivers Do to Reduce Their Risk of Accidents?

    Drivers can lower their chances of being involved in collisions by maintaining safe speeds, avoiding distractions, and allowing adequate following distances. Being extra cautious near busy intersections and construction zones, and monitoring traffic patterns on high-risk roads can also make a significant difference. Adapting driving habits during heavy rain, icy conditions, or peak commuting times further helps reduce accident risks.

    Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Are Familiar With Local Roads and Laws

    Even the safest drivers get into serious crashes. Contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York if you need legal guidance. Call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and we serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • Were You Involved in an Auto Accident With an Unlicensed Driver?

    Were You Involved in an Auto Accident With an Unlicensed Driver?

    The unfortunate fact is that you are never able to control who you are involved in a car accident with on the road. The hope is that the other driver has both a license and car insurance. If the other driver was unlicensed, you should not draw any assumptions that you would not be able to be paid for your injuries. However, you are dealing with a more difficult legal situation that would potentially involve your own insurance company. Anytime that you are dealing with an insurance company, you need help from an experienced car accident lawyer to obtain the best possible result.

     

    Will Another Insurance Company Pay for Your Damages?

     

    A driver may be unlicensed for a number of reasons. One of them could be that they lost their permission to drive because their license was suspended for traffic offenses. Here, the driver may still have a car insurance policy that may potentially cover the accident damages. However, the insurance company may balk at paying a settlement when their driver did not have the right to be behind the wheel in the first place. They may still deny your claim and force you to sue the driver. You may be able to legally fight with the insurance company to force them to pay the claim.

     

    What Happens if the Other Driver Has No Insurance?

     

    If the driver did not have car insurance, how you are paid is an entirely different matter. You would need to turn to your own car insurance company to be compensated for your injuries. In general, New Jersey is a “no-fault” state, so you could be paid for the cost of your medical bills and the lost wages that you would have earned from working. You may have a low PIP limit, so you are only paid for a fraction of your damages. Thus, you must have another type of coverage that would cover more of your damages.

    Under New Jersey law, your car insurance company is required to offer you uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage would pay for your damages when the other driver did not have insurance, or you were the victim of a hit-and-run. Your car insurance company is legally obligated to offer you this coverage when you pay for your policy. If the driver did not have insurance, you would need to turn to your own insurance company for a settlement.

     

    How Will My Insurance Company Respond to an Uninsured Motorist Claim?

     

    Just because you have paid premiums and you are a customer does not mean that your insurance company is going to willingly pay you all of the money that you deserve. They would still want to know that the other driver was at fault for the accident, and they may make you lowball settlement offers. You would still need to negotiate with your insurance company the same as you would with that of another driver. For that, you need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer who can put legal pressure on them to pay you what they owe you.

     

    The fact that a driver did not have a license does not automatically mean that they are to blame for the crash. Regardless of the other facts, you still have a legal obligation to prove negligence before you qualify for compensation beyond that which you may receive as part of your personal injury protection. If you were to blame for the accident yourself, you would not receive a full settlement check just because the driver was breaking the law in another way. Accordingly, it is essential to hire a car accident lawyer right after the crash, so they can gather the available evidence that you need to prove liability.

     

    Contact the Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York If You Are Seeking Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries

     

    If you have been injured in a crash with an unlicensed driver, reach out to the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. We can evaluate your legal options and pursue compensation on your behalf if you deserve it. To schedule a free consultation, submit our online form or call us today at 856-843-8990. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • How Can Dashcams Help a Car Accident Claim?

    How Can Dashcams Help a Car Accident Claim?

    In any car accident case, you would need to prove negligence as a prerequisite to potentially receiving financial compensation for your injuries. Your car accident lawyer may gather evidence from a number of sources because you are the one who must meet your own burden of proof. Of course, eyewitness testimony may be a readily available and persuasive form of evidence for your case. You may also turn to other sources of proof if you want to supplement the evidence, or if you do not have witnesses or other things to help your case.

     

    Dashcam evidence could be used to either help or undercut your case. You may have had a dashcam mounted in your own vehicle. Alternatively, another driver who was in the vicinity may have had one, and they captured footage of the crash. This footage could be used as a source of proof, either to present to the insurance company with your claim or to a jury with your lawsuit.

     

    Dashcam Footage Can Be Used to Prove Negligence

     

    Having actual footage of the crash can serve as persuasive evidence of what really happened. Assuming that the video evidence can be authenticated, it can be very difficult for the insurance company or a jury to reach a conclusion different from what they can see very clearly in front of them on video. Dashcam footage can be a primary source of proof of liability. It could also break a tie in your favor in what may be a close call. You could also use dashcam evidence to disprove any allegations made against you if the insurance company claims that you were partially to blame for the accident.

     

    Dashcam footage can be a double-edged sword in a car accident case. There may be footage of your actions in the circumstances leading up to the accident. If you may have been partially to blame for the crash, it can be proven through the use of dashcam footage. If the camera captured your own actions, it can present difficulties for your case.

     

    You Must Preserve All Dashcam Evidence

     

    No matter what the footage may show, it is vital that you take steps to preserve it. If it comes out that you had a dashcam and you are found to have deleted the footage, you would have committed spoliation of evidence, and it could make your case very difficult. You may have adverse inferences drawn against you, and you could even be found liable for the accident.

     

    Accordingly, you should take steps to preserve the evidence that you have as soon as possible after the accident. You may need to do this quickly before the footage gets overwritten, as some dashcams are programmed to do so over time. Make sure to make a copy of the footage and give it to your car accident lawyer for safekeeping as soon as you hire them.

     

    If another party recorded the dashcam footage, it can still help your case. You may have received contact information from witnesses, and someone may have told you that they recorded the accident. Try to follow up with them as soon as possible after the crash and ask them to provide the footage. There is even a chance that your car accident lawyer could subpoena the footage if another party will not cooperate, but that is a long shot. Thus, you need to hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible, while the evidence that can prove your case is still available to you.

     

    Contact the Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York if You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident and Are Seeking Compensation

     

    The Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York will fight for your legal rights if you have been injured in a motor vehicle crash. For a free consultation, call us today at 856-843-8990 or submit our online form. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • Permanent Scarring From Car Accidents: What You Should Know

    Permanent Scarring From Car Accidents: What You Should Know

    Car accidents often result in more than just broken bones or temporary injuries. In many cases, survivors are left with permanent scarring that affects them for the rest of their lives. Scars can serve as physical reminders of the trauma endured, altering a person’s appearance and, in some instances, their physical capabilities. Beyond the visible damage, permanent scarring can take a psychological toll, impacting self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. Understanding how permanent scarring occurs, what steps to take after sustaining this type of injury, and what compensation might be available can help accident victims navigate this difficult path forward.

    What Causes Permanent Scarring After a Car Accident?

    Scarring can happen in a variety of ways following a car accident. When skin is cut, torn, or burned, the body begins to heal by producing fibrous tissue known as “scar tissue.” The extent and nature of the wound often dictate whether the scar will fade over time or remain permanently. Deep lacerations, such as those caused by broken glass or torn metal, frequently lead to lasting scars.

    Burn injuries, particularly those caused by vehicle fires or contact with heated components, often result in skin damage that leads to long-term disfigurement. Surgical procedures related to accident injuries can also contribute to scarring, particularly if performed under emergency conditions where aesthetics may be secondary to life-saving efforts.

    Can You Get Compensation for a Permanent Scar?

    Victims of car accidents who suffer permanent scarring may be entitled to seek financial compensation. The law recognizes that scars, especially those in visible areas like the face or hands, can be life-altering. Compensation may be awarded not only for the physical pain and suffering caused by the accident, but also for the psychological impact and any necessary medical treatments to improve the appearance or function of the affected area.

    In addition, victims may be able to recover costs associated with reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, and counseling. The amount of compensation varies based on multiple factors, including the location and severity of the scar, the age and occupation of the individual, and how the injury has affected daily life and long-term prospects.

    How Do Insurance Companies and Courts Evaluate Scarring Claims?

    Permanent scars are evaluated based on several key considerations. One major factor is visibility. Scars on the face, neck, arms, or hands are typically considered more impactful than those on covered parts of the body. The size and texture of the scar also play a role in determining its severity. Another consideration is whether the scar impairs movement or causes discomfort, especially when located over joints or other flexible parts of the body.

    Emotional and psychological factors are also taken into account. Individuals who experience anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal due to disfigurement may receive additional consideration during the claims process. In some cases, testimony from medical professionals or therapists may help establish the long-term effects of the scarring.

    What Should You Do if You Suffer Permanent Scarring in a Car Accident?

    The steps taken immediately following an injury that results in scarring can have a significant impact on both your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. First, it is important to seek prompt medical attention. Even minor wounds can become serious if not treated properly, and early documentation of the injury is crucial. Photographs of the injury and its progression over time should be kept, as these can serve as evidence.

    It is also important to follow all medical recommendations, including attending follow-up visits and considering any treatments suggested by your healthcare provider. Keeping a record of expenses, pain levels, and emotional changes can also be helpful. Finally, speaking with a legal professional familiar with personal injury law can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you may be entitled to.

    Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim for Scarring From a Car Accident?

    Yes, there is a limited amount of time in which you can file a claim for injuries related to a car accident, including permanent scarring. This period is known as the “statute of limitations.” In New Jersey, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this window can result in the loss of your right to pursue legal action.

    That is why it is important to begin the legal process as soon as possible, even if the full extent of the scarring is not yet known. Early consultation with legal counsel can help preserve evidence, secure medical evaluations, and set the stage for a stronger claim.

    Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Advocate for Injured Car Accident Victims

    If you or a loved one has experienced permanent scarring due to a collision, the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can help guide you through the legal steps necessary to seek justice and move toward healing. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our offices located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Safety Features in Cars?

    What Are the Differences Between Active and Passive Safety Features in Cars?

    Staying safe on the road involves more than defensive driving—it also depends on the technology built into your vehicle. Today’s cars come equipped with a wide array of advanced safety systems designed to help you avoid collisions and protect you if one occurs. Understanding the difference between active and passive safety features is key to appreciating how modern vehicles safeguard drivers and passengers.

    What Are Active Safety Features and How Do They Work?

    Active safety features are designed to prevent accidents before they happen. Using sensors, cameras, and onboard computers, these systems detect potential hazards and either alert the driver or take corrective action automatically. Common active safety features include:

    • Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS):Prevent wheels from locking during sudden braking, allowing you to maintain steering control.
    • Electronic Stability Control (ESC):Helps prevent skidding by automatically adjusting engine power and braking individual wheels when the car loses control.
    • Traction Control: Reduces wheel spin during acceleration, particularly on slippery surfaces.
    • Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB):Warns the driver of an impending crash and, if needed, automatically applies the brakes to reduce the severity of impact or avoid it altogether.
    • Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist: Alerts you when you drift out of your lane and gently steers you back into position if you do not react.
    • Blind Spot Detection: Uses sensors to alert you if a vehicle is in your blind spot when changing lanes.

    These proactive systems are part of what’s often referred to as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and are designed to reduce human error, a leading cause of traffic accidents.

    How Do Passive Safety Features Protect You in a Crash?

    Passive safety features, by contrast, activate only during an accident. Their role is to protect occupants and minimize injury when a collision occurs. These features include:

    • Seat Belts: Still the most essential safety device, seat belts secure occupants to prevent them from being thrown during a crash.
    • Airbags: Deploy in milliseconds to cushion impact forces and reduce the risk of serious injury to the head and torso.
    • Crumple Zones: Engineered areas of the car that deform in a controlled manner to absorb crash energy and protect the passenger cabin.
    • Side-Impact Beams: Reinforcements inside doors that help resist intrusion during a side-impact collision.
    • Head Restraints (Headrests):Positioned to prevent or reduce the severity of whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.

    These features are passive in that they do not require any driver input to function, yet they are vital when a crash occurs.

    Why Are Both Types of Safety Features Important?

    Active and passive safety systems serve different purposes, but together they form a comprehensive safety strategy:

    • Active features help prevent accidents by warning drivers and sometimes intervening automatically.
    • Passive features help protect occupants during and after a crash when prevention is no longer possible.

    This layered approach enhances overall vehicle safety, reducing both the number and severity of accidents. Modern vehicles benefit significantly from the integration of both types of technology.

    When Safety Features Aren’t Enough

    While active and passive safety systems have dramatically improved driver and passenger protection, they cannot always prevent injuries, especially when another driver’s negligence is involved. If you’ve been injured in a crash, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation to help you pursue full and fair compensation for your losses.

    Get Legal Support from Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York

    If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash, turn to our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Our legal team brings decades of combined experience to every case, with a track record of securing significant personal injury settlements, including multiple six-figure results. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Milmont Park, PA, we proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • Driver’s Body Recovered After Truck Crashes From Bridge Into Delaware River

    Driver’s Body Recovered After Truck Crashes From Bridge Into Delaware River

    The driver of a tractor-trailer cab that plunged over the side of the Delaware Memorial Bridge into the Delaware River early Friday has been found and recovered. After a 36-hour search, recovery crews located the Brooklyn man’s body in the truck cab 20 feet underwater. 

    The Delaware Memorial Bridge connects Delaware and New Jersey and is operated by the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA). According to the DRBA, around 3 a.m., the driver crossed three lanes of traffic on the southbound bridge span, crashed through a concrete barrier, and plunged into the river.

    Search and rescue crews found the truck in the water on Friday but were unable to locate and remove the man’s body using a Hurst tool until Saturday, officials reported. His remains have been transported to the Delaware Medical Examiner’s Office as investigators try to determine the cause of the crash. A crane and barge were used to recover the truck cab, which is registered to XFR8 LLC in West Chester Township, Ohio.

    Emergency crews from the U.S. Coast Guard, Delaware State Police Marine Dive Unit, Holloway Terrace Fire Company, and other first responders, worked together in the search and recovery efforts. Officials from the DRBA said the bridge has been assessed and is structurally safe and will continue to operate normally.

    If you were injured in a vehicle crash, the skilled New Jersey car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can help. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • What Are Common Injuries That Go Unnoticed After Car Accidents?

    What Are Common Injuries That Go Unnoticed After Car Accidents?

    Car accidents leave individuals shaken, with immediate attention focused on visible injuries or vehicle damage. However, some injuries may not present symptoms right away, going unnoticed for days or even weeks. These hidden injuries can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Recognizing the signs and seeking timely medical evaluation are vital for recovery.

    Why Do Some Injuries Go Unnoticed After a Car Accident?

    Following a crash, adrenaline and shock can mask pain or discomfort, delaying the recognition of certain injuries. The body’s natural response to stress may suppress symptoms, leading individuals to believe they are unharmed.

    Additionally, some conditions develop gradually, with symptoms emerging only after inflammation or internal damage worsens. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, and internal issues often fall into this category, as they may not produce immediate, obvious signs. Medical evaluation, even in the absence of clear symptoms, is necessary to identify these conditions early and prevent complications.

    What Are Soft Tissue Injuries?

    Soft tissue injuries, like sprains, strains, or damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, are among the most common overlooked injuries after a car accident. Whiplash, a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth motion, is a prime example that the related neck stiffness, headaches, or shoulder pain may not appear for days.

    Other soft tissue injuries might present as localized soreness, swelling, or reduced mobility. These symptoms can be mistaken for general fatigue or minor discomfort, leading individuals to delay seeking care. Diagnostic imaging may be required to assess the extent of the damage and guide treatment.

    What Other Injuries Might Go Undetected?

    Internal injuries, including organ damage or internal bleeding, are dangerous due to their lack of external signs. Car accidents can traumatize the liver, spleen, or kidneys, causing slow bleeding. Symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, or lightheadedness may be dismissed as minor, but worsening conditions can follow. Ultrasounds or CT scans are often needed for diagnosis, and prompt medical care is vital to prevent severe complications.

    Concussions, a traumatic brain injury, can occur without a direct head impact. The jolt of a crash shifts the brain within the skull, leading to symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or fatigue, which may appear days later. Sensitivity to light, memory issues, or mood changes can go unnoticed or be mistaken for stress.

    How Do Psychological Injuries Develop After a Car Accident?

    Psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety, can emerge after a car accident but are often overlooked. The emotional impact of a collision may manifest as difficulty sleeping, irritability, or flashbacks to the event. Mental health professionals can assess these symptoms and recommend therapy or other interventions to support recovery. Addressing psychological injuries early can prevent long-term emotional challenges.

    Why Is Delayed Medical Attention Risky?

    Delaying evaluation can allow hidden injuries to worsen, potentially leading to chronic pain, permanent damage, or life-threatening complications. Medical records from timely evaluations also provide critical documentation for legal claims, potentially linking injuries to accidents. Ignoring mild symptoms or assuming they will resolve on their own can result in prolonged recovery, irreversible harm, and unsuccessful insurance and legal claims.

    Let a Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyer at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Pursue Fair Compensation for Your Injuries

    Addressing potential injuries promptly after a motor vehicle crash is vital for both health and legal reasons. Do not delay – the experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can explain your rights and options. For a free consultation, call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form. Located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

  • What Are the Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident?

    What Are the Signs of a Concussion After a Car Accident?

    A “concussion” is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur during a car accident, even when there is no visible head trauma. Yet much of the time, the symptoms are not immediate or even apparent. Recognizing the signs of a concussion after a car accident is important for proper medical treatment and potential legal claims.

    What Exactly Is a Concussion?

    A concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to bounce or twist within the skull. This sudden movement can create chemical changes in the brain and damage brain cells. Due to the rapid deceleration and impact forces involved, car accidents are a common cause of concussions. In fact, many people do not realize they have sustained a concussion immediately after an accident. The symptoms may develop hours or even days later, which is why monitoring your health after any collision is vital.

    What Are the Immediate Signs of a Concussion?

    Concussion symptoms can appear immediately after an accident:

    • Loss of consciousness (in fewer than 10% of cases)
    • Confusion or feeling dazed
    • Difficulty answering questions
    • Memory problems, particularly about the accident
    • Headache
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Balance problems or dizziness
    • Blurred vision
    • Sensitivity to light or noise
    • Feeling sluggish or groggy

    If you notice any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention right away. A prompt diagnosis can prevent additional complications.

    How Do Concussion Symptoms Evolve Over Time?

    Concussion symptoms can worsen after an accident. Delayed signs include more severe headaches, increased trouble concentrating, memory issues, and sleep disturbances. Mood changes like irritability or sadness are common, along with sensitivity to light and noise. Balance and coordination problems may also develop. Since symptoms are not always obvious, tracking changes helps medical professionals diagnose concussions accurately.

    How Is a Concussion Diagnosed?

    Doctors diagnose concussions through a combination of methods. They will take your medical history and ask for a description of the accident. A physical examination followed by a neurological examination will test reflexes, coordination, and sensory function. Cognitive testing helps assess memory, concentration, and recall abilities. Some cases may require imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs, though many concussions do not show up on these tests.

    Be prepared to describe the accident in detail and report all symptoms you have experienced, no matter how minor they might seem.

    How Might a Concussion Impact My Legal Case?

    A properly documented concussion can be an important part of a car accident claim. Even mild brain injuries can interfere with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. The following documentation to help your case includes:

    • Thorough documentation helps demonstrate the injury’s impact.
    • Medical records detailing the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis serve as key evidence.
    • Keeping a journal of symptoms, noting changes, and daily challenges, provides additional support.
    • Statements from family, friends, or coworkers about noticeable effects can further strengthen your claim, helping to establish the full extent of your injury.

    How Can Legal Representation Help With My Concussion Claim?

    A lawyer with experience in car accident cases can pursue fair compensation that accounts for both current and potential future complications from your injury. Medical expenses, lost income, and reduced quality of life should all be considered in a claim. They can also determine if an insurance settlement offer fully covers your medical costs, lost income, and long-term effects. If the offer is too low, they might negotiate for a higher offer. Should negotiations fail, your lawyer can represent you in court, presenting evidence to seek a verdict that better reflects the injury’s impact.

    Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Skillfully Represent Clients with Concussions Sustained in Car Accidents

    Our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York have significant experience handling cases involving TBIs and can fight for the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, call us at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

  • Should You Move Your Car After a Crash?

    Should You Move Your Car After a Crash?

    The moments following a car accident can be chaotic and confusing. Those involved are bombarded with questions, frantically wondering how to answer them. A key one is knowing whether or not to move the vehicle after the crash. Your decision can have significant implications for safety, legal liability, and your insurance claim.

    When Should I Move My Vehicle After an Accident?

    Safety is always the primary concern after any collision. If your vehicle is creating a hazardous situation in active traffic, moving it to a safer location is generally advised. Many state laws explicitly direct drivers to relocate vehicles to the shoulder or another safe area if the accident occurs on a busy roadway, especially highways, where stopped vehicles pose substantial dangers.

    The decision depends on several factors. If your vehicle is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of a highway or busy intersection, and it can be safely driven, moving it to the shoulder or a nearby parking area is recommended. Additionally, if the accident is minor with no injuries and minimal damage, most police departments prefer that vehicles be relocated to reduce traffic congestion and prevent secondary collisions.

    However, if there are serious injuries, significant vehicle damage, or any uncertainty about the safety of moving the vehicle, it is best to leave everything in place until emergency responders arrive. Call 911 and follow their instructions; they might tell you to exit the vehicle and stand in a safe location.

    How Does Moving My Car Affect Evidence Collection?

    This represents a legitimate concern for many drivers. A vehicle’s position after a collision can provide valuable information about how the accident occurred. Before moving your vehicle (but only if it is safe to do so), consider taking photographs of:

    • The position of all vehicles involved.
    • The surrounding area, including traffic signals, signs, and road conditions.
    • Damage to all vehicles.
    • Skid marks or debris on the roadway.
    • License plates of all vehicles involved.

    Most smartphones can capture high-quality images that may later assist insurance adjusters or legal representatives in determining liability.

    Does Insurance Coverage Change If I Move My Vehicle?

    Moving your vehicle after an accident does not invalidate your insurance claim, contrary to what some drivers believe. Insurance companies understand the safety implications of leaving damaged vehicles in dangerous locations.

    What matters most to insurers is accurate documentation of the accident. This includes photographs taken before moving vehicles (when safely possible), honest reporting about the vehicle positions and movements, and complete information exchange with other involved parties. Insurance adjusters can evaluate claims even when vehicles have been moved from their original positions. Their assessment incorporates various factors beyond just the vehicles’ final resting places.

    How Else Should I Document the Accident Scene?

    Proper documentation serves as your protection in subsequent insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. In addition to photos, gather contact and insurance information from all involved parties. Note the time, weather conditions, and any relevant road factors; see if there is a traffic camera at the location.

    Collect names and contact details of any witnesses and write down your recollection of events while your memory is fresh. You should also request a copy of the police report from a responding law enforcement officer. This documentation provides valuable context, including details that might otherwise be lost once vehicles are moved from the scene.

    Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Offer Sound Legal Guidance and Free Consultations

    Facing the aftermath of a car accident requires careful attention to immediate safety concerns and long-term legal considerations; every decision you make matters. At Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York, our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers provide guidance to individuals dealing with the repercussions of traffic collisions.  To learn more, call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form. Located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.