Car accidents are a common occurrence in Pennsylvania. Dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident can be overwhelming, especially if you have been injured. Navigating the complex legal system and dealing with insurance companies can add to the stress of an already challenging situation.
With the help of a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania, you can confidently navigate the process of filing a car accident claim. Mooney Law can provide you with the legal expertise and support to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Below, we will discuss the necessary steps to file a car accident claim in Pennsylvania.
Ensure Safety and Report the Accident
After a car accident, prioritize safety. Move your vehicle out of active traffic if it is safe. This helps prevent further collisions and ensures a safer environment for everyone involved. Once the area is secure, check for injuries among all parties. Ensure emergency medical services are contacted promptly if anyone is hurt.
Call 911 to report the accident and request law enforcement at the scene. The police report they create will be essential for your claim. It provides an unbiased account of what occurred, which can support your case. If you plan to seek legal advice, search for an auto accident attorney near me to find a qualified lawyer in your area.
Exchange Information With the Other Parties
Collect the other driver’s full name, contact information, and insurance details at the scene. Verify that their policy is valid and, if possible, take a picture of their insurance card. This information will be important when filing your claim and contacting the insurance company.
If the other driver appears reluctant to share their details or you suspect they are uninsured, note their vehicle’s license plate number. Provide this information to the police officer on the scene for documentation. This ensures an official record, which can protect your claim during the investigation process.
Photograph and Document the Scene
Capture multiple angles of vehicle damage, visible injuries, road signs, weather conditions, and skid marks or debris. Record the time and location, and identify witnesses nearby. These details can be crucial for reconstructing the accident and strengthening your claim.
Take Photos of Vehicle Damage
Photograph all visible damage to your vehicle and the other party’s vehicle. Ensure the images highlight different perspectives, including close-up shots and wider frames. When negotiating with insurance adjusters, these photos can help establish the extent of the damage.
Document Injuries and Medical Treatment
Take pictures of any physical injuries sustained by you or others involved in the accident. Keep track of medical treatments received or consultations with healthcare professionals. These records provide valuable evidence to link injuries to the collision.
Record Weather and Road Conditions
Capture images illustrating the current weather and road conditions at the location of the accident. Surrounding elements, such as wet pavement, icy streets, or poorly visible road signs, may explain factors that influenced the crash. Document anything that could clarify how the accident occurred.
Collect Witness Statements and Contact Information
Speak to witnesses at the scene and obtain their names and contact details. Document a concise summary of what they observed during the incident. Witness accounts can support your version of events during claim negotiations.
Understand Pennsylvania’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
Pennsylvania has a no-fault insurance system, meaning drivers can use their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical expenses after an accident. PIP covers medical bills and related costs up to the policy limit, regardless of who caused the accident.
This system ensures injured parties receive prompt medical care without waiting to determine fault. However, PIP does not cover property damage and limits the total amount available for your expenses.
If injuries exceed your PIP coverage or result in severe damages, you may need to take legal action against the at-fault driver to recover additional costs. These situations can involve complex legal procedures, so consulting a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania could help.
Obtain a Certified Police Report
Request a certified copy of the accident report from the responding police department or through PennDOT. This document details the accident, including contributing factors, involved parties, and the officer’s observations. Insurers and legal representatives often need the report to process claims or pursue further action.
Carefully review the accident report for any inaccuracies or missing information. If you notice errors, contact the police department immediately to request corrections. Ensuring the report is accurate can prevent delays or complications when working with insurers or building a legal case. Keep a copy of the corrected report for your records and share it with your attorney if needed.
Preserve All Relevant Documentation
Keeping an organized file with all relevant documentation is essential to strengthen your insurance claim or legal case. Start by collecting estimates for vehicle repairs from trusted mechanics or repair shops. Include detailed receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, such as towing fees, rental car costs, or medical supplies.
These records will help demonstrate the financial burden you experienced from the crash.
Maintain thorough documentation of any lost wages if your injuries or the accident prevented you from working. Obtain a written statement from your employer outlining the dates and hours missed, along with proof of your usual income.
A comprehensive record of these expenses can make a significant difference during claim negotiations because it establishes the full extent of your economic losses.
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the proper steps can strengthen your position and protect your rights. Hiring a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania can provide the legal expertise and support necessary to pursue fair compensation for your damages.
