Best Car Accident Lawyers in Allentown

FAQs

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

  Allentown Police Department's non-emergency phone number is 610-437-7751.

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

  Police reports are available to the public for $15 at Police Records, situated on the College Street side of the Public Safety Building (425 W. Hamilton St). The person requesting a copy of the police report must be identified on the police report themself.

• After a car accident in Allentown, what kind of compensation may the victim be entitled to?

  Under Allentown regulations, victims are entitled to compensation for economic and non-economic losses caused by the accident. These include vehicle repairs and replacement, current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any income loss resulting from the accident, such as missed time at work due to injuries, discomfort, or medical visits.

• Is it advisable to speak to immediately accept settlement offers from insurance companies after a car accident in Allentown?

  While it is easy to be tempted by a quick payout, be aware that if you accept an offer of settlement, you waive your right to seek additional compensation in the future, even if your injuries worsen or your bills increase. Do not give the other party’s insurance company any recorded statements, as this can later be used against you and might affect your claim. Instead, seek the assistance of an Allentown car accident lawyer to deal with the insurance company on your behalf.

• Can you file a wrongful death claim after a car accident in Allentown?

  Under Allentown laws, if you have suffered the loss of a loved one in a car accident, you have the right to file a wrongful death case. In these circumstances, the victim's family or survivors must establish that their loved one was killed due to someone else's negligence or carelessness. You can file for monetary, non-monetary, and punitive damages, especially if the accident resulted from criminal behavior, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• How much time do you have to file a claim following a car accident in Allentown?

  In Allentown, like the rest of Pennsylvania, you have two years from the date of your accident to submit a claim. This timeframe is called the statute of limitations. If you do not file within that time frame, you will certainly lose your right to submit a claim, which means you will not collect any compensation.

• What if the at-fault driver of an Allentown car accident has inadequate insurance to cover all damages?

  While it is fair to want the other party to pay for damages, especially if they are entirely to blame, the most typical next step is to evaluate your own insurance policy to determine if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This policy might offer you additional coverage paid for by your auto insurance provider rather than the other driver. With the help of your Allentown lawyer, contact your insurance provider immediately if you are unsure if you have this coverage.

• 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.