Delaware County Auto Accident Lawyers
Recovering from a serious auto accident—whether involving a car, truck, motorcycle, or another type of vehicle—is overwhelming enough without the added stress of medical bills, vehicle repairs, and disputes with insurance companies or at-fault parties.
Each accident is unique, but certain legal principles guide how claims are handled in Delaware County. At Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York, our experienced Delaware County auto accident lawyers provide free consultations to help clients understand their legal options. With our guidance, you can make informed decisions as you pursue the resolution you deserve. One of the first steps is understanding how these accidents happen.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Auto Accidents?
Auto accidents can occur for many reasons, often due to human error or unforeseen circumstances:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, adjusting GPS systems, or other distractions can lead to collisions.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of crashes.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, and even fatigue are significant contributors to accidents.
- Dangerous Weather: Rain, fog, and icy roads increase risks by reducing visibility and traction.
- Mechanical Failure: Issues such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can result in loss of control.
These factors can lead to collisions involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
What Types of Damages Are Recoverable After an Auto Accident?
Victims of auto accidents may pursue compensation for two categories of damages:
- Economic Damages: These include measurable financial losses like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and rehabilitation costs. Documentation such as receipts, bills, and pay stubs is critical in proving these damages.
- Non-Economic Damages: These cover intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
In some cases, victims may also pursue punitive damages if the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct.
What Should I Do if Another Party Denies Responsibility?
Disputes over liability can complicate the claims process. If another driver or party denies responsibility, it is essential to work closely with your legal team to gather and present evidence that supports your claim. Evidence such as police reports, photographs of the scene, and witness statements can strengthen your case.
If liability remains contested, the dispute may escalate to negotiations or even court proceedings. Our Delaware County auto accident lawyers will advocate for your interests throughout the process.
What Evidence Is Crucial in Auto Accident Cases?
Building a strong case requires thorough evidence collection. Some of the most critical forms of evidence include:
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries.
- A police report detailing the incident.
- Medical records documenting injuries and treatment.
- Witness statements.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage capturing the accident.
- Vehicle repair estimates and maintenance logs.
- Preserving evidence as soon as possible after the accident is key to supporting your claim.
How Is Compensation Determined for Medical Expenses and Lost Income?
Compensation for medical expenses includes costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical needs. Clear documentation from healthcare providers is essential.
Lost income is calculated based on wages, bonuses, and other earnings you missed due to the accident. If injuries impact your ability to work in the long term, you may also pursue compensation for diminished earning capacity.
How Do Insurance Companies Defend Against Claims?
Insurance companies often use various tactics to minimize or deny claims. Some common defenses include:
- Arguing that injuries were pre-existing or unrelated to the accident.
- Disputing the severity of injuries or the necessity of treatment.
- Asserting that the victim was partially at fault for the accident.
- Understanding these strategies can help you counter them effectively with the support of experienced legal representation.
How Does Comparative Negligence Impact Auto Accident Cases in Delaware County?
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible, your compensation will decrease by 20%.
This rule makes it crucial to gather strong evidence to minimize your assigned fault and maximize your recovery.
What Is the Legal Process for an Auto Accident Claim?
The process typically begins by filing a claim with the insurance company. This involves submitting documentation such as medical records, repair estimates, and evidence from the accident.
If the insurer’s settlement offer is insufficient, negotiations may follow. If negotiations fail, the case may proceed to litigation. Our Delaware County auto accident lawyers handle all aspects of the process, from filing claims to representing clients in court.
Contact the Experienced Delaware County Auto Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York
Auto accidents can leave a lasting impact on your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Seeking legal guidance is a critical step toward obtaining the compensation you deserve. At Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York, our experienced Delaware County auto accident lawyers are dedicated to achieving fair resolutions for our clients. Call our Milmont Park, Pennsylvania or Cherry Hill, New Jersey office at 856-843-8990 or 610-532-4222 or complete our online form for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Camden County, Burlington County, and Gloucester County, New Jersey, as well as Delaware County, Pennsylvania.