A car crash is something that no one expects to happen. If the family automobile is damaged, that means the kids can’t be taken to school. If there is an injury, it means losing salary and having medical bills to pay. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer in our office is prepared to help you protect your rights.
Filing an insurance claim can help you get the fair compensation you deserve and hold the negligent party responsible for their actions. However, if you can’t secure a satisfactory settlement using that approach, the next option would be to file a lawsuit and go to trial.
Our car accident lawyers have decades of experience fighting for victims of traffic accidents in Pennsylvania. We know what fair compensation looks like, and we work tirelessly to make sure you are awarded what you’re entitled to under Pennsylvania law.
A Philadelphia car accident attorney from our law firm is available today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. Don’t wait to get the accident claim process going. Contact us now.
What Are the Most Common Types of Vehicle Collisions?
There are a few common types of crashes that are most often seen in Philadelphia collision cases. Knowing the type of crash can help provide information about how the other driver was negligent.
While some types of car accidents may only result in property damage or minor injuries, others are likely to result in catastrophic injury or death. The most common types of crashes include the following:
Rear-End Collisions
This occurs when one car hits the rear of the car in front of it. These accidents typically happen when the lead vehicle decelerates quickly, or the following car accelerates suddenly. Typically, individuals involved sustain significant car accident injuries like whiplash or soft tissue damage. Distracted driving often results in a rear-end collision.
Sideswipe Crashes
When two vehicles are traveling parallel to one another, and one vehicle hits the other along the side, it is known as a sideswipe. Distractions and improper merging can result in this type of crash. While many only result in property damage, a forceful sideswipe can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and potentially hit another car or a fixed object.
Side-Impact Collisions
A side-impact collision occurs when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another. This is sometimes referred to as a T-bone accident because of the shape created by the two vehicles. These collisions typically happen at intersections. Depending on the speed and force of the collision, injuries and property damage may be severe. Safety features like airbags and crumple zones can save lives.
Rollover Accidents
Certain vehicles, like trucks or large SUVs, are more susceptible to rollover accidents. A rollover happens when a vehicle flips on its side or roof—generally as a result of speeding around a sharp turn. The occupants are likely to be injured. If a commercial vehicle rolls over and is carrying hazardous materials, clean up can block traffic flow for a significant amount of time.
Head-On Crashes
Head-on accidents, when the front ends of two vehicles traveling in opposing directions collide, are often the deadliest—especially when the vehicles are traveling at high speeds. There’s a chance of ejection through the windshield or debris breaking through the windshield and injuring the front seat occupants. Drunk driving and distractions contribute to this type of auto accident.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
If one vehicle strikes another on the highway and the surrounding cars are unable to get out of the way, more collisions are possible. Individuals who decide to exit their vehicles are at risk of being struck. Multi-vehicle pileups can become deadly when big rigs are involved. Determining liability is often difficult with multiple parties involved. Teaming up with an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer is the best way to make sure the appropriate party is held accountable.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
A single-vehicle accident involves only one car. This can happen when a driver is distracted and hits a fixed vehicle or object, or when inclement weather and icy conditions cause dangerous hydroplaning. While it may not seem as dangerous as hitting another vehicle, single-vehicle accidents can result in severe injuries and fatalities.
Hit and Run Accidents
When two or more vehicles collide, the drivers are required to trade information for insurance purposes. When a driver hits another vehicle and leaves the scene without speaking to the other driver or leaving their information, they are committing a crime. Because of the complexity of these types of cases, not every personal injury law firm handles hit and run accidents. We can help with yours, though.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Auto Accidents?
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation crash study report, there were 110,382 reportable traffic crashes in 2023. When we investigate your case, we look into what actions resulted in the crash. Driver error is the most common cause of car accidents in Philadelphia. The following is a list of the contributing factors and the number of crashes those factors caused:
- Speed: 23,070
- Drunk Driver: 7,350
- Proceeded Without Clearance: 13,432
- Improper Turning: 10,529
- Distracted Driver: 9,011
- Careless/Illegal Passing: 5,232
- Drowsy Driver: 2,706
- Tailgating: 5,562
In addition to driver error accidents, weather can also be a factor. Rain and fog cause about 3x more accidents than snow and sleet. Accidents can also happen when drivers encounter debris on the road or encounter pedestrians or bicyclists who run out in traffic.
Defective Auto Parts
If brakes fail, a tire blows, or another mechanical issue happens while a driver is behind the wheel, they could lose control of their vehicle and cause a car wreck. The driver may have had a defective auto part. In these cases, the company that designed, manufactured, or sold that part may be responsible.
Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers can help you identify why your accident happened and why it could have been prevented. Defective parts claims can be difficult, as most large manufacturers have powerful insurance companies and strong legal teams to protect them.
At Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco, we have a successful history of winning these types of cases and are ready to put our expertise to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your complicated crash case involving a defective auto part.
What Are the Most Common Car Crash Injuries?
Unfortunately, many collisions result in some type of injury. While some people may only sustain minor physical injuries that require little medical intervention, others may need surgery and months of physical therapy. Some people suffer long-term effects of the emotional trauma associated with the accident.
Being aware of the most common consequences related to wrecks can give you a better understanding of how people recover and get their lives back in order. If you have been involved in a car accident in Philadelphia, it’s likely that you are experiencing both physical and psychological injuries.
After practicing personal injury law in Philadelphia, PA for many years, we know that the injuries listed below are most often seen among crash victims.
Physical Injuries
A car has a protective autobody with safety measures like airbags and seat belts. Protective equipment may reduce the severity of injuries, but not stop them all from happening. The most common physical injuries include:
Head Injuries
Vehicle occupants involved in high-speed collisions may come in contact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows. If the head is jostled or bumped, the brain can sustain an injury. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) range from mild concussions to debilitating brain injuries. If they’re severe, they can result in permanent consequences like loss of function.
In some cases of TBI, patients are put in a medically induced coma to help the brain heal. Sometimes, a patient will suffer lasting brain injuries that prevent them from communicating or even being aware of their surroundings.
A head injury is one of the most dangerous outcomes that can result from a collision. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms following a crash, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately.
Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury may include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Sensitivity to light or noises
- Irritability
- Loss of balance
- Excessive fatigue or sleepiness
Lacerations and Bruises
The force of impact is likely to propel passengers forward quickly and then pull them back violently. As a result, cuts or scrapes from objects inside the car are common. Cuts and severe lacerations are even more likely if broken glass is involved. Seat belts and air bags can provide much-needed protection but can also result in bruising to the face or abdomen.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury sustained during a sharp back-and-forth motion of the head. Although it is considered one of the more minor car accident injuries, whiplash leaves the sufferer with substantial head and neck pain and limited range of motion. If you sustained one of these injuries, you may be required to undergo physical therapy and chiropractic care until healing is reached.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The neck and spinal cord are an incredibly delicate area of the body. Even minor spinal cord damage may result in months of pain and diminished mobility. More catastrophic injuries could cause temporary or permanent paralysis.
Broken Bones
Broken arms, legs, hands, feet, and ribs are common in auto crashes. Some broken bones can be set and immobilized and will heal over time. Other broken bones may require surgery and physical therapy.
Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
Internal bleeding can be dangerous and even deadly if not treated quickly after a crash. It’s not always apparent that a person has suffered organ damage. Adrenaline and other hormones can mask the symptoms of internal injury in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. This makes it one of the most dangerous “hidden injuries” of a motor vehicle wreck.
For this reason, the car collision attorneys of Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco advise that you always schedule an appointment with your primary care physician after an accident, even if an emergency medical technician cleared you at the scene.
Nerve Damage
When nerve damage occurs, you could lose feeling or function around the injury site or in the lower extremities of your body. Severe accidents may cause such severe nerve damage that amputation is necessary.
Disfigurement
The impact of the crash or flying debris can cause facial fractures and lacerations. This often leads to permanent scarring and disfigurement that can only be remedied through corrective surgery. Many people are never able to fully recover their previous physical appearance.
A Philadelphia car accident lawyer will look into the injuries you sustained and how long they’ll affect you. When injuries have permanent consequences, you may no longer be able to return to your previous job or the workforce. A catastrophic injury will affect you for the rest of your life and can cause significant stress.
Emotional Trauma
It’s understandable to be worried about your physical health and financial status after an automobile accident. It’s just as important, however, to be cognizant of your mental health. A traumatic event like a wreck can leave victims with emotions they may not know how to handle. Many people need to seek additional help to get their lives back in order.
Those who are suffering from any of the following symptoms after a vehicle collision should seek the guidance of a mental health professional:
- Worsening anxiety or uneasiness
- Lack of focus
- Unmanageable fear of driving or being in a vehicle
- Difficulty eating or sleeping
- Irritability
- Excessive anger
- Depression
- Extreme guilt
- Feeling emotionally disconnected
Getting the care you need for your mental health is vital. The above symptoms are common in the days after the accident, but if they persist longer, you may want to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help car accident victims learn to cope with the trauma they’ve experienced through a number of methods, including therapy and medication.
As you’re looking at the physical and emotional trauma you need to treat, you may worry about how you’re going to afford care. When our car accident attorneys are at your side, you won’t have to be put in a position in which you need to choose between your physical and mental wellbeing.
What Should I Do After a Philadelphia Car Accident?
There are a few steps you can take after a motor vehicle collision in Philadelphia. Following this checklist can help ensure safety and give your personal injury claim the best outcome.
- Get out of the way of traffic and check on everyone involved
- Call 911 and wait for police and EMS to arrive
- Exchange contact information with the other driver
- Avoid admitting fault or blaming another party
- Take photos of the accident scene
- Get contact information for any eyewitnesses willing to give a statement
- Schedule an appointment with your physician
- Follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all appointments, and keep track of all medical bills
- Keep a journal of your health journey and document your injuries and progress with notes, photos, and test results
- Call your insurance company
- Set up a free consultation with a Philadelphia car accident attorney
How Do I File an Auto Insurance Claim in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law allows you to take civil legal action against a party whose preventable negligence caused you harm. During your initial free consultation with a Philadelphia car accident attorney, we will discuss the details of your auto accident to determine if you have a valid claim against a negligent party. You may have a legitimate claim against one or more parties, including:
- The other car’s driver
- An employer of a driver
- A truck or bus driver
- The government body responsible for road design and upkeep
- An auto parts or vehicle manufacturer or sales company
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim After a Wreck in Philly?
Like most personal injuries, car accident claims are subject to a statute of limitations. A statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to take legal action. If you attempt to file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has passed, your case will be considered invalid and thrown out by the court. Under Pennsylvania law, car accident cases have a two-year statute of limitations. This usually means that the clock starts from the date of the collision.
Even after you file, complications can arise at any turn, and insurance companies are known to employ tactics to slow down the process and wear in your patience. That is why the guidance of a car accident lawyer in Philadelphia is so helpful. We can put the pressure on the insurance companies to resolve the matter.
What Compensation Can My Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers Help Me Recover?
When you think of a car accident insurance claim, you likely think about medical bills and lost wages. Those are the primary losses you should be compensated for, but even within those categories, there are many other expenses that you might not be aware of. Your accident attorney will pursue all the reasonable damages on your behalf.
When you’re seeking compensation for a personal injury, the two main categories of damages to know are economic and noneconomic damages. In rare cases, punitive damages may also apply.
Economic Damages
This type of loss refers to the specific monetary damages resulting from the collision. After a car accident injury, your most significant economic losses will likely be associated with medical treatment. This may include economic damages such as:
- Emergency room visit
- Ambulance ride
- Physician or specialist appointments
- Cost of surgery or other medical procedures
- Prescription medications
- Future medical bills for ongoing care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Mental health care following psychological trauma
- Adaptive equipment like prosthetics, a wheelchair, or accommodations to a home or vehicle
- In-home health care aide costs
Another important set of economic damages relates to your lost wages. You should be covered for any time you miss work while you are recovering. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, then future earning potential could be a consideration.
You could also be compensated for car repairs, rental cars and any other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
Noneconomic Damages
The other aspect of your compensation is noneconomic damages. This refers to the non-monetary losses you’ve suffered because of the accident. These may not be as immediately apparent as economic damages, but they are still significant consequences that happened because of someone else’s negligence.
Because these damages don’t come with a definitive value attached, insurance companies may be less willing to recognize their validity. An experienced personal injury attorney is needed to appropriately calculate these damages and ensure you are properly compensated for them.
Punitive Damages
The purpose of economic and noneconomic damages (known collectively as “compensatory damages”) is to give you back what was taken from you through negligence. Punitive damages, on the other hand, serve a different purpose. Punitive damages punish particularly wrongful behavior and prevent others from engaging in the same actions. They can only be awarded above and in addition to compensatory damages.
Punitive damages do not apply in most personal injury claims. As they serve to punish extreme wrongdoing, most cases of negligence do not fall under this description. In Pennsylvania, punitive damages are only appropriate when an act of negligence is egregious, willful, or malicious.
Why Should You Choose Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco After a Philadelphia Car Accident?
Each car accident lawyer at our Philadelphia law firm has a reputation for providing excellent service to our clients. Our attorneys are strong advocates for our clients in helping them recover maximum compensation. We make our roads safer by holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
At our law firm, you’ll have the support of the entire team, which brings their combined decades of experience to every car accident case. We have built our personal injury practice on establishing strong attorney-client relationships, and we fight intently for the rights of those we represent.
We Listen to You
No two motor vehicle accidents are the same. We want to hear your story and how your life was changed by your car accident injuries. Our auto accident attorneys will answer your questions and provide the information you need to decide the best option for your claim.
We Conduct Thorough Investigations
We give whatever time, effort, and creativity it takes to get to the bottom of how and why your motor vehicle crash happened. Because we know that car insurance companies are notorious skeptics when it comes to hearing a victim’s version of events. They are looking for any excuse not to pay the claim. Car accident attorneys like ours will examine police reports, traffic camera footage, cell phone records, photos of the crash scene, proof of vehicle mechanical failure, and any other evidence that can prove liability and substantiate your claim.
You never have to go to the insurance company with just your account of what happened. Your car wreck attorney will make sure you’re equipped with solid proof that your car collision happened as you claim it did.
We Have the Support of Experts
To support your car accident claim, we often call on the testimony of experts. Our car crash lawyers have strong relationships with top professionals in their field. We work closely with leading medical experts, traffic accident reconstructionists, and other recognized professionals whose support has proved invaluable in past personal injury cases.
We Know How Insurance Companies Operate
The sad fact is that most insurance companies prioritize profits over policyholders. Car insurance exists to protect you and others in case of a car wreck. However, victims of car accidents in Philadelphia often find that their own insurance company makes it difficult to obtain financial help for medical treatment, a rental car, or other related costs. At Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco, we don’t let insurance companies stand in the way of your recovery.
During your initial free consultation, your Philadelphia car accident attorney from our law firm will go over the details of your car insurance policy. We have a thorough understanding of car insurance requirements under Pennsylvania law and will pursue compensation through the most appropriate means. This includes considering both drivers’ policies and any uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage that may be applicable.
We Are the Philadelphia, PA Car Accident Attorneys Who Get Results
We serve the hardworking citizens of our city and the greater state of Pennsylvania. Someone else’s negligence shouldn’t leave you physically, emotionally, and financially devastated. With our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at your side, you know you have the best chance for successful recovery.
We have won millions in compensation for victims of Philadelphia car accidents. Insurance companies know we take wreck cases seriously. Most traffic crashes should never have happened in the first place. We do what we can to compensate for injustice and make sure it never happens again.
Get in Touch With a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer in Our Office Today
Our long and successful history of handling complex auto collision cases in and around Philadelphia County not only means that we have access to a wide variety of resources to aid in building your case, but that our attorneys have unique insight into how to achieve desirable outcomes in car crash injury cases like yours.
We take your car accident seriously, and we care personally about the outcome of your case. At Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco, we know we can help change people’s lives for the better. Our clients come to us when an injury or personal loss has taken away what’s most important to them. We pride ourselves on using our legal expertise to help give people their lives back after tragedy.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a vehicle collision that caused injuries or a preventable death in Pennsylvania, we invite you to schedule a no-cost case evaluation with a Philadelphia car accident lawyer from our firm. We never charge a fee for the opportunity to discuss your case with one of the city’s best injury attorneys. Contact our law firm to learn what we can do for you today.
