Common Pennsylvania Car Accident Law FAQs
Dec. 19, 2019
Many questions immediately spring to mind following a car accident in Pennsylvania, partly due to the hybrid personal injury system that Pennsylvania’s accident law system enforces. Even though the situation can be very stressful, it is always advisable to try and remain calm to make it through the experience.
Q: Who Is at Fault?
A: The determination of fault is one of the essential components of car accident law in Pennsylvania because it is a no-fault state. After an accident, and perhaps against intuition, the driver will not sue the other driver or their insurance company. If necessary, the driver will sue their own insurance company if they do not feel adequately compensated after a car accident. Even though the medical payments and bills are supposed to be compensated by the driver’s own insurance company, the fault helps determine vehicle repairs that should be paid by the other driver’s insurance company. Based on the accident and possible confusion after an accident, consider hiring an accident law attorney to help get you started instead of wasting time confused about where to start.
Q: What Should I Do After an Accident?
A: Here are some of the possible steps to take after an accident:
Request a copy of the accident report prepared by the New Jersey police,
Request a property damage valuation from the insurance company
See a doctor and request copies of all medical files while personally recording any medical symptoms or maladies
Document any expenses incurred as a result of the accident
List the days of missed work and other inconveniences caused by the accident
Perhaps most importantly is to consult an accident law attorney before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company.
Q: What Are the Possible Financial Damages Recoverable After an Accident?
A: Reimbursements are possible for medical bills, lost wages, and any damage to one’s vehicle. In addition, depending on their existence and availability, certain charges are possible for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment if missing out on certain activities or events due to the car accident.
Q: How Do I Pay for My Medical Bills?
A: Your own insurance company is required to compensate you for any injuries depending on the coverage terms and paid monthly premiums. If the insurance company has hit the maximum amounts of money, they are willing to pay, personal health insurance, and other alternative systems of money should defray the amounts of some medical bills. Unfortunately, medical bills will not be paid until the underlying car accident case is settled. It is under these time constraints that insurance companies try to offer low settlement offers, relying on the urgency of the situation for people to take them. However, it is also under these circumstances that are in the best financial long-term interest to avoid taking these settlement offers and waiting until after consultation with a lawyer.
Call to schedule a consultation with Kim A. Bodnar, Attorney at Law in our Pittsburgh office.
NOTE: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice
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