Best Car Accident Lawyers in Harrisburg

FAQs

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

  Individuals looking to reach the Harrisburg police station for non-emergency purposes can dial 717-255-3131.

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

  You can obtain your police report in person by appearing at the window in 123 Walnut St, 2nd Level. If you're looking to receive the document via e-mail, send a request to records@harrisburgpa.gov. If you're aiming to obtain your report via e-mail or mail, note that authorities will inquire the following information:

  • Your name
  • How you would like your report returned
  • The report's incident number
  • Your contact information A crash report costs $15.

• Can an individual sue vehicle manufacturers for injuries caused by auto parts defects in Harrisburg?

  Yes. Older cars are more prone to defect-related crashes than newer vehicle models, often caused by parts like airbags, seat belts, and tires. The chances of these accidents happening in Harrisburg are significant, based on a 2022 report from the online marketplace LendingTree, showing that the average age of used cars that potential buyers prefer is 7.47 years. The city ranks fifth in LendingTree's list of metros where customers seek to purchase the oldest used cars.

• What roads in Harrisburg cause the most car accidents?

  Harrisburg motorists should exercise caution when driving on Interstate 83, as some drivers have been known to merge carelessly into traffic, potentially leading to dangerous situations. The streets of Cameron and Paxton also host car-related accidents as drivers interact with bicyclists and pedestrians in a stretch of road populated by restaurants and hotels.

• Who can be held liable for a Harrisburg car accident involving a driver that doesn't own the car?

  In Harrisburg—where 26% of households are non-family households—car owners may be held liable for damages in accidents that result in injuries if they allow an unlicensed or intoxicated person to drive their vehicle. Pennsylvania's "permissive use" laws impose a duty on car owners to exercise reasonable care when entrusting their vehicle to another person, especially a non-family member. However, if someone steals the car and causes an accident, the car owner would not be liable for the resulting damages.

• Can an individual sue government organizations like local municipalities and military units for injuries from car accidents in Harrisburg?

  Yes. According to the Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act, government organizations are granted sovereign immunity in lawsuits from private parties. An individual can sue for injuries sustained from a car accident in Harrisburg because the immunity does not extend in various circumstances, like:

  • when a person is injured by a vehicle possessed or operated by the government
  • when an individual is adversely affected by dangerous sidewalk conditions
  • when a resident is hurt by actions conducted by members of the Pennsylvania military

• Are there limits to the damages a Harrisburg car accident victim can receive in their case?

  In the past, Pennsylvania courts found that placing caps on the damages that an injured person can receive is illegal under the state's constitution. However, individuals looking to file lawsuits against the Commonwealth can recover damages not exceeding $250,000; this goes up to $500,000 if the claim is filed against local municipalities like Harrisburg, according to the 42 Pa. C.S.A. § 8528.

• 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.