Experienced Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Being involved in a car accident can be a life-altering experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional stress, and mounting financial burdens. Navigating the aftermath is often overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and determining fault. That’s where a skilled Philadelphia car accident attorney comes in.
With deep knowledge of Pennsylvania’s traffic laws and a commitment to securing justice for victims, the personal injury attorneys at Rothenberg Law Firm are here to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Our team of empathetic legal professionals understands the complexities you face, and we're committed to helping you obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
You can rely on us for guidance, support, and dedicated representation, helping you navigate the legal intricacies while you focus on your recovery. Your well-being is our priority, and we promise to provide the compassionate assistance and aggressive representation you need during this difficult journey.
Call our Philadelphia office at (800) 624-8888 for your free consultation with our legal team.
Why Choose Rothenberg Law Firm for Your Philadelphia Car Accident Claim?
Choosing Rothenberg Law Firm for your Philadelphia car accident claim means selecting a partner with deep roots in our community. As your local legal ally, we understand the unique aspects of Philadelphia law and have served our neighbors here for over 50 years.
Our commitment to this city goes beyond legal experience – it's a heartfelt dedication to our friends and neighbors. Having a local lawyer means having someone who knows the community and its challenges and can empathize with the impact of a car accident on your life.
Our Philadelphia personal injury lawyers are here to provide compassionate support and effective advocacy throughout the process. With Rothenberg Law Firm, you're not just a client; you're a valued member of our community, and we're here to stand by you. Contact us today.
Our Philadelphia Office
You can find the Rothenberg Law Firm Philadelphia office at 1420 Walnut Street. We are located at the heart of the city’s proud history, just down the street from Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Stock Exchange.
Our attorneys are inspired every day by the memories of those who have gone before us, building our system of laws and jurisprudence. We have successfully represented clients in Philadelphia for over 50 years, securing billions of dollars in compensation on their behalf.
Call our Philadelphia office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form for your free consultation.
Philadelphia Car Accident Statistics
According to the latest statistical report compiled by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania has over 120,000 miles of roads and highways. In the last reporting period, there were 115,938 reportable traffic crashes in Pennsylvania. These crashes claimed the lives of 1,179 people and injured another 67,012 people.
PennDOT notes that there are an average of 318 reportable traffic crashes in Pennsylvania each day or about 13 crashes per hour. Of that number, three people were fatally injured each day, and about 184 people were injured daily in reportable crashes.
Philadelphia County has the second most reported traffic crashes, accounting for 7.5 percent of the state’s total crashes. PennDOT reports that 48 percent of the total traffic fatalities occurred in only 10 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. Philadelphia had the most traffic fatalities in the state, at 12.1%, with 143 fatal traffic crashes.
Related article: Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Why You Need a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney
In the aftermath of a car accident in Philadelphia, navigating the legal landscape can be intricate and challenging. Legal complexities and nuances, such as state-specific laws and regulations, demand a lawyer to protect your rights.
Having a seasoned car accident lawyer on your side means someone who understands the local legal intricacies, guiding you through the process with confidence.
Statute of Limitations
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, you need to consult our car accident lawyers promptly to ensure we can gather the necessary evidence for your case. Failing to file within the statute of limitations may result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue a personal injury claim.
Pennsylvania is a No-Fault Jurisdiction
Pennsylvania has a no-fault injury law. No matter which driver is at fault, your insurance must cover any related medical bills up to a certain amount. Therefore, the best way to be proactive about meeting all deadlines under 42 Pa. CS § 5524 is to hire a knowledgeable Pennsylvania car accident lawyer.
At The Rothenberg Law Firm, we are familiar with all the complications that could potentially influence the time you have to file your car accident claim.
Full Tort and Limited Tort Liability Insurance
When drivers in Pennsylvania choose an auto insurance plan, they must choose between Full Tort and Limited Tort insurance plans.
A Full Tort insurance policy is more expensive, but it comes with a significant benefit in case of an accident. By paying for Full Tort coverage, drivers retain their right to sue the party responsible for the accident and seek compensation for their pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life.
By contrast, a Limited Tort insurance policy is less expensive but prevents injured drivers from seeking maximum compensation for their injuries. Drivers with Limited Tort coverage may seek economic damages from their insurance company but cannot sue the other driver for non-economic damages.
There is, however, an exception to this rule. Limited Tort drivers who suffer injuries that are legally considered “serious,” such as a permanent disability, traumatic brain injury, impairment of body function, or permanent disfigurement, may sue for non-economic damages in the event of a serious injury.
What to Do Following a Philadelphia Car Crash to Protect Yourself
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Philadelphia, you must take certain steps to protect yourself and your rights to seek the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and safety should always be the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Not only does this ensure your well-being, but it also provides crucial documentation of your injuries, which will be essential for your claim.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, collect evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses and the other driver, as well as their insurance details.
File a Police Report
Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the official police report. This document serves as an impartial account of the accident and can be a valuable piece of evidence.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be honest and provide factual details, but avoid making statements that could be misconstrued as admitting fault.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
Navigating Pennsylvania’s car accident laws and dealing with insurance adjusters can be complex and overwhelming. A skilled Philadelphia car accident attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and build a compelling case to secure maximum compensation.
Document Your Damages
Keep detailed records of all accident-related expenses, including medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and proof of lost wages. A journal documenting your pain, recovery, and emotional distress can also strengthen your claim for non-economic damages.
Stay Mindful of Deadlines
As mentioned, you have only two years to file a car accident injury lawsuit, and claims against government entities may have far shorter deadlines. You must consult a Philadelphia car accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn of any deadlines that apply to your case.
Building a successful car accident claim requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. By taking the right steps and partnering with an experienced legal team, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Related article: Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyer
Damages That May Be Available for Your Philadelphia Personal Injury Claim
When pursuing a personal injury claim in Philadelphia, you may be entitled to various types of damages to compensate for your losses. These damages typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. Additionally, in cases of wrongful death, specific damages are applicable.
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Income: Compensation for the income lost due to the injury, both for the time already missed and potential future earnings.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of damaged property, such as your vehicle.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Compensation for miscellaneous expenses directly related to the injury, such as transportation costs for medical appointments or home modifications.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury, including chronic pain, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological suffering, including trauma, anxiety, and depression resulting from the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on personal relationships, including loss of companionship, intimacy, and support.
Damages for Wrongful Death Claims
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Coverage for the costs associated with laying the deceased to rest.
- Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the financial contributions the deceased would have made to the family.
- Loss of Companionship: Damages for the emotional suffering resulting from the loss of a loved one's companionship.
- Punitive Damages: In certain cases, punitive damages may punish the at-fault party for gross negligence or intentional harm.
Your lawyer can advise you about the full scope of damages available in your personal injury or wrongful death claim in Philadelphia.
Common Types of Car Accidents Resulting in Personal Injury Claims
Philadelphia experiences many car accidents, each presenting unique challenges.
Here are some of the most common types of car crashes we see in our personal injury practice:
- Rear-end collisions: These occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. Whiplash is a common injury, affecting the neck and spine. Other injuries may include head and facial injuries from sudden impact.
- Intersection accidents: Collisions at intersections often involve T-bone or side-impact crashes. Injuries may range from broken bones due to the impact on the side of the vehicle to head injuries from the force of the collision.
- Side-impact or T-bone collisions: These occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a "T," which gives it its name. Injuries can include fractures, internal organ damage, and spinal injuries, depending on the point of impact.
- Head-on collisions: Frontal crashes between two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. Severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), chest trauma, and multiple fractures are common due to the high impact of this type of crash.
- Roll-over accidents: Vehicles overturning onto their sides or roofs. Injuries may include head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fractures due to the violent nature of the rollover.
- Hit-and-run incidents: A driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping. Injuries can be like other types of accidents, but the challenge may be identifying the responsible party for compensation.
- DUI-related accidents: Accidents involving drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Injuries can be severe and varied, including broken bones, head injuries, and even fatalities due to impaired judgment.
Seek medical attention after any car accident, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Some injuries don't show symptoms right away but could become apparent or worsen later, like TBI or internal injuries. Seeing a doctor will also establish a medical record of your injuries connected to the collision, which can be helpful when you file a claim.
Seeking legal representation is vital to ensure accountability for negligent actions and to pursue rightful compensation. Understanding these common types of accidents underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable vehicle accident lawyer to navigate the legal aftermath and safeguard your rights.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You Build a Strong Car Accident Claim
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal processes. That’s where our experienced car accident attorneys come in. With a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s laws and a commitment to securing justice for our clients, we can help you build a robust claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We begin by thoroughly evaluating your case, reviewing all details of the accident, police reports, medical records, and other evidence. This allows us to determine liability, calculate damages, and develop a clear strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
Strong evidence is the foundation of any successful claim. Our attorneys will:
- Collect and analyze photos, videos, and witness statements from the accident scene.
- Obtain police reports and medical records to establish the severity of your injuries.
- Work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary to strengthen your case.
Managing Communication with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to counter these tactics. We handle all communication with insurers, ensuring your rights are protected and that you’re not pressured into accepting a lowball settlement.
Calculating Full Compensation
We meticulously calculate both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future).
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Property damage.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Building a Strong Legal Argument
If your claim requires litigation, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys will craft a compelling legal argument, present evidence effectively, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf.
Keeping You Informed
We believe in clear and open communication. Throughout the process, we’ll keep you updated on the status of your claim and involve you in key decisions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Working on a Contingency Fee Basis
We understand the financial strain a car accident can cause, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any fees unless we secure compensation for you.
By partnering with our skilled attorneys, you gain a dedicated advocate who will handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.
Contact a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer at Rothenberg Law Firm Today
Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney, Barbara Rothenberg, Esq.
After a car accident in Philadelphia, reach out to Rothenberg Law Firm for dedicated legal support. Our experienced team has been serving the community for over 50 years, providing compassionate and effective representation. We understand the challenges you're facing.
The personal injury lawyers at The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP represent clients from all over Pennsylvania, particularly in the Philadelphia area, and they will help you understand your legal rights. Let the experienced legal professionals at our firm provide you with legal services and help you obtain the money you deserve.
Call our Philadelphia office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form for your free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case and determine if you are entitled to damages.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we never take a fee or costs unless we’re successful in recovering money from you. Your rights matter, and we are here to fight for them.
