Chester Car Accident Lawyers

Tough Cases. Tougher Lawyers.

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No Recovery. No Fee.

Your Fight Is Our Fight – Our Car Accident Lawyers Fight For Victims in Chester County

Car Accident Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car or auto accident in Chester, PA, and are facing the aftermath of another’s negligence, the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman stand ready to support you through these challenging times. Understanding the complexities of Pennsylvania personal injury law, our dedicated team commits to guiding you, step-by-step, through the legal process. We firmly believe that injured victims of car accidents, including those suffering from car accident injuries, deserve financial compensation for their injuries, and we tirelessly fight to ensure that insurance companies fulfill their obligations to you, the injured party.

At the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman, we pride ourselves on being more than just your legal representatives; we are your staunch advocates and allies. Our approach combines compassionate listening with aggressive litigation strategies aimed at securing the best possible outcome for your case. With our no recovery, no fee pledge, our interests are intrinsically tied with yours. We are invested in your success because our success depends on it.

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. Our lawyers specialize in untangling the complexities of personal injury cases. We work diligently to protect your legal rights, prevent insurance companies from employing delay and deny tactics, and ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover. With the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal challenges.

Car Accident Laws in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, car accident laws are based on a choice no-fault system, meaning that drivers can choose between “no-fault” insurance and traditional insurance. Under the no-fault system, your insurance company will pay your medical expenses and lost earnings after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. However, choosing traditional insurance allows drivers to retain the right to sue for pain and suffering if the other driver was at fault for the accident such as a hit-and-run accident.

Comparative Negligence

In Pennsylvania, comparative negligence is a doctrine used in motor vehicle accidents to determine the level of responsibility each party has in causing the accident. According to this rule, a damaged party cannot recover compensation if they are more than 51% at fault for the accident. However, if the party is 50% or less at fault, they can still recover damages, but the amount will be reduced by their percentage of fault. This system allows for a fairer distribution of damages, ensuring that each party pays or receives compensation proportional to their responsibility in the accident.

For example, if you were involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania and were found to be 30% at fault, while the other driver was 70% at fault, you could still recover 70% of the damages from the negligent driver. This law aims to balance the scales of justice by acknowledging that multiple factors and parties can contribute to an accident, and it seeks to apportion damages accordingly. Understanding the nuances of comparative negligence is critical for anyone who is a car accident victim in Pennsylvania, as it significantly affects the potential compensation one may receive.

Understanding Your Rights After An Accident

Understanding your rights after an auto accident occurs is paramount to ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. After a car accident in Pennsylvania, understanding your rights is crucial to ensuring you are fully compensated for your injuries and losses. Pennsylvania’s unique auto insurance laws, including the choice no-fault system, allow for different paths to recovery, depending on your insurance selections and the specifics of your case. Knowing these rights can empower you to take the necessary steps toward recovery.

First and foremost, every driver and accident victim in Pennsylvania has the right to file a claim with their insurance company, regardless of who was at fault, under the no-fault insurance coverage. This can cover medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages or other out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, if you have chosen traditional insurance or if your injuries meet certain criteria defined by state law, you may have the right to pursue a claim against the driver who was at fault for the accident. This could include compensation for pain and suffering, which is not covered under the no-fault system.

Basic Rights and Considerations

It’s also essential to understand your timeline for filing a claim. Pennsylvania law sets forth specific deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, by which your claim must be filed. Here is a brief list describing your basic rights and considerations:

  • Right to Benefits Under Your Insurance Policy: You are entitled to receive benefits according to the terms of your insurance policy, typically covering medical expenses and a portion of lost wages.

  • Right to Sue for Full Damages: If your situation permits (e.g., you have traditional insurance and sustained serious injuries), you may sue the responsible party for a wider range of damages, including pain and suffering.

  • Comparative Negligence Consideration: Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rule may affect the amount of compensation you can recover. Understanding how your own potential fault might impact your claim is vital.

  • Statute of Limitations: Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for personal injuries in Pennsylvania. Failing to adhere to this deadline can result in losing the right to sue.

Grasping these rights and how they apply to your situation can significantly influence the outcome of your claim, and working with experienced car accident attorneys can help you navigate these complexities.

Steps to Take Following a Car Accident

Filing a personal injury claim for a car accident or car crash in Chester, PA, begins with thoroughly documenting the incident and your injuries. This crucial step cannot be overstated, as comprehensive evidence is key to building a strong case. Immediately after the accident, if possible, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to your vehicle. Gather contact information from witnesses and the other driver involved in the motor vehicle accident. It’s equally important to seek medical attention right away, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Medical records will serve as critical evidence of the injuries sustained and their link to the car accident or crash.

Following these initial steps, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Chester, PA. A skilled lawyer will guide you through the complex legal procedures and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. They will assist you in filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, presenting your case in court. To successfully file a personal injury lawsuit, follow these essential steps:

  • Seek Medical Treatment: Ensure that you have all your injuries evaluated and treated. Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and diagnoses.

  • Report the Accident: Notify the police immediately after the accident to ensure an official accident report is filed.

  • Document Everything: Collect and organize all evidence related to the accident, including photos, witness statements, police reports, and medical records.

  • Contact a PA Personal Injury Lawyer: Engage the services of a lawyer who specializes in car accident cases to help you evaluate your claim and guide you through the legal process.

  • File an Insurance Claim: Your attorney will likely start by filing a claim with the relevant insurance companies, detailing your injuries and the damages you’ve incurred.

  • File a Lawsuit: If a satisfactory personal injury settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, your Pennsylvania attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf, initiating formal legal proceedings.

Navigating the legal aftermath of a car accident or car crash can be a daunting task, but taking these steps and working with a competent legal team can significantly improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

Filing an Insurance Claim in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, when a car accident is the result of another driver’s negligence, initiating the process includes filing a car accident claim with your insurance provider about the accident. Given Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system, your claim initially goes through your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to cover medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident.

However, when injuries are severe or expenses exceed the limits provided by personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, the role of insurance companies extends to evaluating and negotiating Chester County car accident claims that involve pursuing damages from the at-fault party’s insurer. This often involves a detailed investigation into the accident to confirm negligence and to determine the extent of the damages sustained. During this phase, insurance companies may engage in negotiations to settle claims.

In cases where settlement cannot be reached, or when disputes arise regarding the allocation of fault and the adequacy of compensation, these issues may ultimately need to be resolved through legal proceedings.

Insurance negotiations following a car accident in Pennsylvania can become complex and challenging, especially when trying to prove another’s negligence and obtain the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve. Without a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance laws and the nuances of serious personal injury claims, victims may find themselves at a significant disadvantage.

Types Of Damages You May Be Entitled To

In Pennsylvania, victims of auto accidents may be entitled to recover a broad range of damages through a lawsuit, reflecting both the tangible and intangible losses suffered due to the accident. These damages are pivotal in ensuring that the victim can regain financial stability and compensate for the physical and emotional distress caused by the incident. Tangible or economic damages cover direct financial losses, such as medical bills and lost wages, resulting from the serious injury. On the other hand, intangible or non-economic damages acknowledge the pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life that do not have a direct monetary value but significantly impact the victim’s well-being.

  • Medical Expenses: Covers the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical care related to the accident injuries.

  • Lost Wages: Compensates for the income lost due to the inability to work, including past, present, and estimated future losses.

  • Property Damage: Reimburses the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensates for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall decrease in quality of life experienced as a result of the accident.

  • Loss of Consortium: Aims to compensate the spouse of the injured party for the loss of companionship, affection, and support due to the injuries sustained.

Understanding the types of damages available is essential for effectively navigating the legal process and ensuring that all aspects of the victim’s losses are accounted for in a car accident lawsuit in Pennsylvania.

RECOVERING MILLIONS OF DOLLARS FOR OUR CLIENTS

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*The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman does not offer any guarantee of case results. Past success in litigation does not guarantee success in any new or future lawsuit.

When You've Been Injured, We Will Help

The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman will help you seek monetary compensation for:

Medical Expenses

Hospital bills can be overwhelming, particularly if your accident caused brain & spinal injuries or other serious injuries. Reimbursement for medical bills is an essential part of recovery in an injury case.

Future Medical Treatments​

Serious injury to your neck and/or back may require years of medical attention and exhaustive physical therapy.

Lost Income​

Recovery for lost wages is essential. In addition, you could be entitled to income continuation.

Timing Matters in Personal Injury Cases

You Need to Act Quickly to Preserve Your Legal Rights

A personal injury case must be filed within a certain period of time as per PA law. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer can explain what is called the “statute of limitations” in detail. Basically, the statute of limitations on personal injury cases in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of your injury.

After this time has passed, you may be barred forever from bringing a claim. Additionally, your own insurance company might require you to provide a statement within 30 days of the accident. Our car accident lawyers will make sure all necessary documentation for your case is filed in a timely fashion.

Tough Cases. Tougher Lawyers.

The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman is proud of the reputation it has built successfully negotiating and litigating for clients who have suffered personal injuries due to someone’s negligence.

Learn more about this personal injury law firm, the legal team, and its verdicts and settlements. An experienced car accident attorney is what you will need and want if you seek to obtain maximum compensation for your injury case.

The Importance Of Hiring A Car Accident Attorney

Determining the right moment to engage a car accident lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your insurance claim or lawsuit. If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, it is prudent to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney becomes crucial when navigating the complexities of insurance policies and the legal system, especially under circumstances that complicate your claim. For example, if fault for the accident is being disputed or if your injuries are severe enough to exceed the limits of your insurance policy, a lawyer’s guidance becomes invaluable. Additionally, understanding the full extent of your rights and potential compensation requires professional insight, particularly when dealing with insurers’ tactics aimed at minimizing their payouts.

You will know when it’s time to reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer when you have:

  • Disputed Liability: If the other involved party or their insurance company disputes their client’s fault, legal advice can help you prove liability and secure the compensation you deserve.

  • Severe Injuries: In cases where injuries result in significant medical bills, loss of income, or long-term incapacitation, a lawyer can ensure that you are fully compensated.

  • Complex Legal or Insurance Issues: Situations involving underinsured or uninsured motorists, intricate legal questions, or potential reductions in claims due to your partial fault necessitate professional legal assistance.

  • Low Settlement Offer: If the insurance company offers a settlement that doesn’t cover all your losses or accurately reflects your pain and suffering, a lawyer can negotiate to increase the offer.

  • Time Constraints: Facing deadlines for filing claims can be daunting, and a lawyer can help ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted on time to preserve your right to compensation.

By consulting with a car accident lawyer under these circumstances, you can safeguard your interests and enhance your chances of receiving a fair and just outcome.

Why Choose Craig A. Altman as Your Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer

Choosing the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman for your car accident case offers unparalleled advantages. With a dedicated team of experienced car accident attorneys, our law firm excels at obtaining significant settlements and jury awards for our clients. Our comprehensive understanding of Pennsylvania’s legal landscape, combined with a personalized approach to each case, ensures that clients receive attentive and effective representation.

Contingency Basis

At the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman, clients benefit from a no-win, no-fee contingency basis, ensuring they pay legal fees only if they receive a settlement or win their case, making quality legal services accessible to everyone.

Free Consultation

The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman offer a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your personal injury case, providing you with an opportunity to understand your legal options without any initial financial commitment.

Aggressive Advocacy

The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman stand out for their assertive approach in representing personal injury victims, tirelessly fighting to secure the maximum compensation for their clients while navigating the complexities of personal injury law with unmatched experience and dedication.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t face this challenge alone. The Law Offices of Craig A. Altman are here to champion your cause, offering extensive legal experience, a no-win, no-fee promise, and a commitment to securing the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

Don’t settle for less, reach out today for your free consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to provide aggressive representation and support you every step of the way. Contact us now and take the first step towards reclaiming your life.

Take Action Now—Secure Your Future Today. Call Now To Get A Free Consultation.

Don’t wait to take action if you’ve been involved in a car accident. Every moment counts, and the sooner you get professional legal assistance, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Contact the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team of car accident lawyers will evaluate your case, guide you through your legal options, and develop a strategy tailored to your unique situation. Remember, we operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s no financial risk to you. By choosing us, you ensure that your case is handled with the utmost attention it deserves, maximizing your recovery and restoring your peace of mind.

If you’re looking for aggressive advocacy and a team that fights tirelessly until the end, the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman is your top choice. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to lift the burden off your shoulders. Don’t settle for a lowball settlement or navigate the complex legal system alone. Secure your future by reaching out to us today. Our commitment to securing the best outcome for our clients is unwavering. Call now for your free consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice and seeking compensation that you rightfully deserve.

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