Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers
Car accidents range from mild bumper taps to serious events causing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. After a serious collision resulting in injuries and significant property damage, it is advisable to seek experienced legal guidance to protect your interests.
Handline the aftermath of a car accident generally involves dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and the stress of recovery. Knowing how to manage all of that can be overwhelming, to say the least. Our Delaware County car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York are here to assist you in these situations, offering support in pursuing claims for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Delaware County?
Car accidents in Delaware County occur for many reasons, including:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to obey traffic signals
- Poor weather conditions, like fog, rain, or snow
- Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts
- Defective road designs or improper signage
Understanding the cause of the accident is an essential step in determining liability and pursuing compensation.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Delaware County?
After a car accident, your immediate priority is to seek medical attention for any injuries, so call 911 and follow their instructions. Even if you do not feel hurt at the moment, a medical evaluation can detect injuries that might not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical attention also creates a record that could be valuable for your legal case.
It is also important to document the scene of the accident. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, as well as any visible injuries and damage to your vehicle. Snap pictures of skid marks, traffic signs, and weather conditions; note if there are traffic cameras nearby. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information as well.
Also, remember to request a copy of the police report. That will serve as an official record of the accident and may include key details that support your case. Notify your insurance company promptly, but avoid providing detailed statements before consulting with a car accident lawyer.
How Can a Delaware County Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?
Our Delaware County car accident lawyers can assist you by gathering evidence, analyzing the circumstances of the accident, and advising you on the best course of action. We can also handle communication with insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Our team can assess whether additional claims may be filed against third parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or government entities responsible for road maintenance. In cases where settlement negotiations do not yield fair compensation, we can represent you in court. There, we can present evidence, question witnesses, and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
What Types of Damages Can I Claim in a Car Accident Case?
In Delaware County, car accident survivors may pursue compensation for various types of damages. These include medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatment, lost wages due to missed work, and property damage to your vehicle. Compensation for pain and suffering may also be awarded, reflecting the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
If the accident resulted in long-term injuries or disabilities, you might seek damages for future medical costs and loss of earning potential. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly reckless behavior by the at-fault party. We can evaluate your case and help determine the damages you are entitled to pursue.
How Is Liability Determined in a Car Accident Case?
Liability in a car accident case is determined by examining the actions of each party involved and identifying who acted negligently. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction analyses can be used to establish fault.
Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, you could recover 80% of your damages. Our Delaware County car accident lawyers can work to present evidence to minimize your share of fault and maximize your potential recovery.
What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Delaware County?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. This time limit applies to personal injury claims and claims for wrongful death resulting from a car accident.
Filing a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has expired generally results in your case being dismissed. It is important to consult with our Delaware County car accident lawyers as soon as possible to help you file the necessary documents within the required timeframe. Prompt legal action also allows for the preservation of evidence and strengthens your case.
What Should I Look for in a Car Accident Lawyer?
When choosing a car accident lawyer, look for someone with a strong track record in handling similar cases. They should have experience in dealing with insurance companies and a thorough knowledge of Pennsylvania’s car accident laws. Effective communication is also important, as you should feel comfortable discussing your case and feel confident in their ability to represent you.
Additionally, consider their availability and willingness to dedicate time to your case. Lawyers who are attentive to your concerns and responsive to your questions can provide valuable support during a challenging time. When free consultations are offered, you are not required to pay anything upfront; that way, you are not assuming any risk.
Take the First Step Toward Resolving Your Case with the Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York
Car accident survivors often feel lost when understanding the avenues for pursuing fair compensation for their damages. The skilled Delaware County car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can help guide you through the process of filing a claim. For a free consultation, call our Milmont Park, Pennsylvania or Cherry Hill, New Jersey office at 856-843-8990 or 610-532-4222 or submit our online form. We serve clients throughout Camden County, Burlington County, and Gloucester County, New Jersey, as well as Delaware County, Pennsylvania.