Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lancaster, PA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lancaster, Pennsylvania?

  You may call the Lancaster Police Department at 717-664-1180 for non-emergencies that require police assistance.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Lancaster, Pennsylvania?

  To obtain a copy of your crash report, file your request online at https://lancaster.crimewatchpa.com/nlcrpd/8795/content/crash-reports.

• What are the common injuries sustained in Lancaster car accidents?

  Some of the most common injuries victims sustain in Lancaster car crashes include broken bones and fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, burns, bruises and contusions, and amputation injuries. Soft tissue and whiplash are also common injuries, but they may not present themselves immediately after the accident.

• What are the types of documentation that you should gather when pursuing a car accident claim in Lancaster?

  If you are pursuing a car accident claim in Lancaster, make sure to obtain copies of the police report of your accident, your medical records, repair bills, receipts for rentals, correspondence with your own insurance company, and paycheck stubs. Documenting all your losses resulting from the accident will help your legal team build a stronger case and receive fair compensation for you.

• Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Lancaster?

  Following the auto insurance laws of Pennsylvania, Lancaster does not require drivers to purchase additional uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. So if you get hurt in a collision with an underinsured or uninsured driver and do not have UM or UIM coverage, you can take legal action against the at-fault driver, but there is no certainty that they have the means to cover your claim.

• Can you still recover compensation if you are partly responsible for a car accident in Lancaster?

  When you and the other party were both found to have demonstrated negligence resulting in a car crash in Lancaster, the law of comparative negligence will be applied to determine the percentage of your share of fault and the compensation you will receive. As long as you are less than 51% responsible for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but your percentage of fault will reduce your total award.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Lancaster?

  If you figure in a car crash in Lancaster, Pennsylvania state law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you let this two-year statute of limitations pass without taking legal action, you forfeit your right to compensation for the losses you incurred due to the accident.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.