After experiencing a car accident in Pennsylvania, you have a limited window to pursue compensation for your injuries. This underscores the importance of promptly reaching out to a skilled personal injury attorney to avoid missing critical filing deadlines.
The period following a car accident can be chaotic and overwhelming, filled with a challenging recovery, dealing with insurers, facing unexpected medical expenses, and financial strain. In such a difficult time, legal matters might not seem like a priority.
Yet, early engagement with a car accident attorney can significantly influence the success of your personal injury claim. If your injuries are severe and another party is at fault, a PA personal injury attorney can navigate the claims process for you, liaise with insurance companies, and ensure compliance with all legal deadlines for filing a lawsuit. An adept personal injury lawyer will manage communications and negotiations with insurers, allowing you to concentrate on recuperation.
For insights into your legal options after a car collision in Pennsylvania, reach out to Brandon J. Broderick for a complimentary consultation. Our car accident lawyers will assess your accident details, address your queries, and explain how our seasoned team can assist you.
This article addresses the critical question: When does it become too late to hire a car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania after an accident?
Pennsylvania's Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit After a Car Accident
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations defines the legal time limits for initiating car accident-related lawsuits. According to 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524, individuals have a two-year period to file a lawsuit for personal injuries or for the wrongful death of a loved one caused by someone else's negligence or wrongful actions.
If you wait until after the filing deadline has passed, it becomes impossible to hire a lawyer to assist you with your car accident case. Failing to adhere to these deadlines results in the forfeiture of your right to file a personal injury lawsuit. Consequently, the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits or the evident fault of the other party, leaving you without any legal recourse to claim damages for your injuries.
This two-year limit highlights the necessity of promptly seeking legal counsel. The deadline commences from the accident date, emphasizing the urgency of contacting a lawyer without delay if you believe you have a valid injury claim.
How To Decide if You Should Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Pennsylvania
You Should Consider Hiring a PA Car Accident Lawyer Under the Following Circumstances:
Severe Injuries
Should you suffer serious injuries from an accident, a lawyer can aid in securing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Contested Fault
In situations where fault is disputed and your injuries are substantial, a lawyer can collect crucial evidence, supporting your case and advocating for you.
Issues with Insurance Companies
When dealing with insurance company delays or denials, a lawyer can step in to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Multiple Parties Involved
In accidents involving several parties, legal intricacies may arise. A lawyer can manage the various claims and liaise with multiple insurance companies for you.
Long-Term or Permanent Injuries
For injuries that permanently affect your physical abilities or appearance, a lawyer can assist in claiming compensation for their prolonged impact on your life.
Fatalities
If an accident results in death, a lawyer can help file a wrongful death claim, representing the interests of the deceased's estate or family.
Hit-and-Run Accident
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Pennsylvania, it is very important that you notify the police and consult with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists
If the responsible driver is uninsured or underinsured, a lawyer can explore alternative compensation avenues, like filing a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
The Impact of Pennsylvania's Choice No-Fault Insurance on Car Accident Claims
In fault-based insurance states, recovery is contingent upon proving fault since only the insurance company of the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for injuries. Sometimes, your insurance company might provide an upfront payment and seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer, but this method is typically slower and more cumbersome. Immediate financial needs for medical expenses can make this process particularly challenging.
No-fault automobile insurance aims to mitigate these delays. Rather than waiting for fault determination by insurance companies and lawyers, many states have adopted systems where those injured in car accidents receive prompt compensation. In no-fault states, your insurer covers your injuries regardless of fault, up to your policy's limit. Typically, insurers in these states provide a set amount to cover immediate medical expenses, known as "Personal Injury Protection" (PIP), which can extend to passengers as well.
For injuries surpassing the limits of PIP or being extremely severe, claims can still be made against the at-fault driver’s insurer. Even in no-fault states, however, insurance coverage may prove insufficient, often necessitating fault determination to secure full compensation.
Pennsylvania's system is a blend of fault-based and no-fault insurance. Here, insurers must offer the option of no-fault auto insurance. Under this plan, your insurance covers you regardless of who was at fault. Alternatively, you can opt for fault-based coverage. The distinction between "full tort" and "limited tort" in your insurance choices can reflect this no-fault option, even if not explicitly labeled as such.
If you have been involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Hiring a Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorney May Increase Your Settlement Amount
Studies indicate that hiring a lawyer often leads to a higher settlement. The Insurance Research Council (IRC) discovered in 2014 that car accident victims who work with an attorney generally secure larger settlements compared to those who don't. This is true even after deducting attorney's fees, which are typically paid post-settlement. The expertise of a personal injury attorney can maximize the compensation you receive. Additionally, your lawyer will help ensure you adhere to all pertinent deadlines in your Pennsylvania car accident case.
Brandon J. Broderick is Prepared to Assist You With Your Car Accident Claim in Pennsylvania
Dealing with the complexities of determining fault and negotiating with insurance companies after a car accident in Pennsylvania is much more manageable with experienced personal injury lawyers by your side. The attorneys at Brandon J. Broderick bring a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania’s legal environment, significant experience with car accidents like yours, and a comprehensive knowledge of all relevant laws. They excel at collecting and organizing the necessary medical evidence to solidify your personal injury claim.
While initiating a lawsuit after a car accident may seem daunting, we urge you to reach out to the legal team at Brandon J. Broderick for assistance. Without skilled legal representation, you could find yourself navigating the insurance company's tactics alone, potentially leading to a reduced settlement or complete denial of your claim. This could result in you bearing the financial burden of your medical treatments and any future healthcare needs. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to ensure your Pennsylvania car accident claim is handled effectively. We operate on a contingency fee basis—you only pay if we win your case—and offer free initial consultations. Allow us to help you move forward and facilitate your recovery process.