Best Car Accident Lawyers in Pottstown

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency cases, you may call the Pottstown police department at 610-970-6570.

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

  To obtain a copy of the police report for accidents, you may visit the Pottstown police department's records division at Borough Hall, 100 E High Street, Pottstown, PA 19464, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You may also call them at 610-970-6581.

• Are all types of car accidents in Pottstown reportable?

  In Pottstown and throughout Pennsylvania, there are reportable and non-reportable types of car accidents. If someone is injured in the collision, your automobile is damaged to the point that it must be towed away from the site, and a hit-and-run has happened, you must submit a police report. You are not required to report minor accidents if no one is injured. Regardless of the accident type, it is always better to contact the police since their reports are useful in insurance claims.

• What are the fault laws for car accidents in Pottstown?

  Pottstown and other communities in Pennsylvania follow a unique type of fault law. The state follows no-fault laws, where drivers who are wounded in vehicle accidents may be compensated by their insurance regardless of who caused the incident. That said, the law also permits motorists to opt out of the system based on the type of insurance they carry.

• Who pays for the damages of car accidents in Pottstown?

  Since Pottstown and the rest of Pennsylvania follow a no-fault system, your own insurance will compensate for the losses you incurred in the car accident, whether you were at fault or not. However, you can still pursue the at-fault motorist for compensation if you sustained serious injuries, such as:

  • Broken bones
  • Significant or permanent limitation of use of a body part/function
  • Significant disfigurement
  • Substantial disability for 90 days or more

• What should you prepare if you decide to file a car accident claim in Pottstown?

  If you encountered a car accident in Pottstown and you have decided to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, you need to gather all pieces of evidence pertinent to your case. These include the following documents:

  • Police reports
  • Medical reports indicating the injuries you sustained from the incident
  • Names and addresses of witnesses
  • Photos of the crash site
  • Cost estimates of property damages
  • Doctors' names
  • Privacy waiver that allows your lawyer to discuss with your doctor about your injuries

• Should you sign a medical release in Pottstown when the other party asks for it?

  After a car accident in Pottstown, the other party's insurance company will probably ask you to sign a medical release form, so they may look for any indication that the accident was not the direct cause of your injuries. It might also pose issues if you later sustain injuries connected to your car accident after you sign. Always obtain counsel before signing a medical release from the other driver's insurance company.

• 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.