Were you recently in a car accident in Greensburg, Pennsylvania? Are you searching for an “attorney for car accident near me” to help you with your claim? Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can feel complicated. It’s understandable to feel lost and alone during such a stressful time. Finding the right “attorney for car accident near me” can make a difference.
Understanding Car Accidents in Greensburg, Pennsylvania
Car accidents are a harsh reality, and they happen all too often. In Greensburg, a city nestled in Westmoreland County, car accidents, unfortunately, are a regular occurrence. This is similar to many parts of Pennsylvania and across the U.S. The roads and highways we use every day, whether it’s Route 30, Route 22, or Route 70, see their fair share of accidents. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation paints a concerning picture.
This data shows that in 2023 alone, distracted driving led to more than 14,000 car accidents across the state. And sadly, it’s not just Pennsylvania. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 2016 was one of the most dangerous years for car accidents. These accidents result in physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents don’t just happen out of the blue. They’re often the result of negligence. Some common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: Even with the implementation of Pennsylvania’s texting-while-driving ban in 2012, taking our eyes off the road for a split second is all it takes. These distractions come in many forms. Some examples are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or even daydreaming. Sadly, the consequences can be disastrous.
- Speeding: Every mile per hour over the limit exponentially increases the risk of serious injury. It’s about more than just a ticket, it’s about reaction time.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and slows reaction time, creating extremely dangerous situations for everyone.
The Rise of Accidents Involving SUVs
As our roads become more crowded and vehicle sizes evolve, new dangers arise. For pedestrians, SUVs have become a particular concern. Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found a concerning statistic.
There was an 81 percent increase in fatal accidents where only an SUV and pedestrian were involved between 2009 and 2016. The IIHS explains this is likely because SUVs tend to have higher front ends, increasing the risk of hitting pedestrians higher up on their bodies where serious damage is more likely.
Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney
You might wonder if hiring an attorney is really necessary after a car accident. Truthfully, the aftermath of a car accident can leave you overwhelmed, dealing with injuries, medical bills, and car repairs, all while battling insurance companies. A car accident attorney can be invaluable during this overwhelming time. Your attorney is your advocate, handling communications and negotiations with the insurance company.
They will fight for your rights so you can focus on getting better.
What a Car Accident Lawyer Can Do
If you’ve been in an accident in Greensburg, finding a reliable attorney for a car accident near you can seem overwhelming. But it’s essential to remember a car accident lawyer can:
- Investigate Your Case: A lawyer investigates your case from all angles: driver negligence, road conditions, and vehicle malfunctions. They want to determine exactly what happened and who may be liable for your injuries and damages.
- Gather Evidence: From police reports to witness testimonies and medical records, they’ll gather all necessary evidence to build your case. This evidence will be critical to support your claim for compensation.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are businesses looking out for their own interests. A lawyer negotiates on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. They will communicate with the insurance adjusters, handle paperwork, and present a strong case for your recovery.
- File Lawsuits (If Necessary): If a fair settlement is not reached, they’ll fight for you in court. Going to trial can be a complex process, but an experienced lawyer can guide you through it and advocate for your best interests.
Types of Damages a Car Accident Attorney Can Help You Recover
An experienced attorney understands what you deserve after an accident. They will work hard to help you recover compensation for various types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This covers past medical bills, future treatments, and potential long-term care. It includes expenses for doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, a car accident lawyer will calculate the full extent of your lost income. They will consider your past earnings, future earning capacity, and any bonuses or benefits you may have missed out on.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional trauma often linger after an accident. Compensation for pain and suffering helps address your non-economic damages.
- Property Damage: From minor dents to a totaled car, your attorney works to secure compensation for all damage to your property. This can include repair or replacement costs, as well as any diminished value of your vehicle.
Don’t Let the Statute of Limitations Expire
In Pennsylvania, there is a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. This means that the clock starts ticking from the moment of the accident. You only have a limited time frame to file a lawsuit.
A dedicated attorney will guide you through this process and help avoid missing important deadlines.
Car Accidents and Pedestrians
While drivers face risks on the road, so do pedestrians. A walk down the street shouldn’t end in tragedy, but pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable. Alarming statistics from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) showed an average of 17 pedestrian deaths daily from car accidents in 2018. This is a distressing increase of 43% since 2008. Shockingly, the CDC reveals that almost 6,000 pedestrians were killed in accidents in 2017.
This sobering figure equates to one pedestrian fatality almost every 88 minutes. Pedestrian accidents often involve unique legal issues. It’s crucial to have an attorney on your side who understands these complexities.
When to Consider an Attorney
Pedestrian accidents often lead to more severe injuries compared to those solely involving vehicles. If a pedestrian accident has left you with injuries, speaking with a car accident attorney can make a significant difference in your case.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists know the sense of freedom that comes from cruising the open roads. However, because they lack the protective shell of a car, motorcyclists are especially susceptible to injuries in accidents. And often, these accidents are not their fault. Data from the National Transportation Safety Board indicates a staggering 64% of crashes involving a motorcycle are due to errors made by other drivers, not the motorcyclist.
The Importance of Visibility
Motorcyclists already face numerous challenges on the road. It’s common for their smaller profile to be missed in blind spots or at night by other vehicles, contributing to these tragic collisions.
Despite all precautions and adherence to safety guidelines, some drivers simply fail to see motorcycles on the road until it’s too late. This is according to a study by the IIHS. This reinforces the significance of attentive driving practices for every individual operating a motor vehicle.
The Importance of Experience
When choosing a lawyer to represent you, you don’t want just any lawyer–you want a specialist. Look for an experienced attorney for a car accident near me in Greensburg who is familiar with personal injury laws in Pennsylvania. It is essential to find someone who specializes in personal injury cases and has a deep understanding of the relevant laws and precedents.
Much like you’d seek an eye doctor for your vision, your injury deserves an attorney who understands the nuances of personal injury law. This area of law is complex, and expertise matters.
Conclusion
If you’ve been in a car accident, seeking legal representation is often a crucial step in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. An experienced attorney can guide you through this process, alleviate stress, and fight for your best interests.
We are Here to Help You with Your Personal Injury Case!
If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, or the surrounding areas of Westmoreland County, including Irwin and Jeanette, you understand the importance of having a dedicated legal team on your side. At Bumbaugh George Prather, our personal injury lawyers focus exclusively on representing individuals who have been injured due to the negligence of others. We believe that this specialization allows us to provide the highest quality legal representation to our clients.
Our firm handles a variety of personal injury cases, including:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workers’ compensation
- Medical malpractice
- Wrongful death
We understand the challenges that you are facing after an accident. You may be dealing with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. You may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Our goal is to help you through this difficult time and to fight for the compensation that you deserve.
FAQs About Attorney For Car Accident Near Me
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Pennsylvania?
Following a car accident, your well-being is paramount. It’s important to stay calm and check for injuries. While it can be disorienting, ensuring safety is crucial. If you are able, move to a secure location away from traffic.
It is important to call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention even for minor discomfort. As soon as it’s safe, it’s wise to gather information from those involved in the accident. Take photographs of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Reporting the incident promptly and seeking guidance from an “attorney for car accident near me” as soon as possible is key for a smoother process.
How do I choose the right car accident lawyer?
When faced with the task of choosing an “attorney for car accident near me”, it’s essential to find someone with experience, who offers a free consultation, and who has a proven track record of success in handling car accident cases.
During this consultation, you can assess whether their communication style and overall approach work well for you. It’s helpful to look at their past client feedback and any notable cases they have handled successfully. Trust your gut and don’t hesitate to seek out an advocate who aligns best with your specific needs.
