Auto crashes happen more often than you think in the United States. A 2021 NHTSA report confirmed 45,915 auto crash deaths, a 10.5% increase from the previous year (2020). If you're in an auto accident caused by the negligence of another entity or individual, note that you can claim compensation for your losses.
While the US legal system permits self-representation, it'll be best to contact a revered auto injury attorney in Lancaster, PA, to aid you in navigating the legalities of your claim and seek a favourable verdict in court.
This article will examine the primary steps to take after an auto accident, the damages you're eligible for, and why a top lawyer is vital to getting a settlement value that suits your injuries and losses.
Ready? Let's set sail!
Major Steps to Take After an Auto Accident
Auto accidents are unexpected. So, it's normal if you're still wound up minutes after the crash. Once you regain composure, ensure you follow these steps:
- Get to Safety: Auto accidents can result in gas leaks and other life-threatening hazards. Once you've been in an auto accident, make concerted efforts to leave the vehicle and head to a safe area. After you've got out of harm's way, contact emergency services (dial 911).
- Use Your Phone to Take Picture or Video Evidence of the Scene: Take pictures and videos of the scene if you can. For context, capture the accident scene and the at-fault driver's information (licence, plate number, and insurance). These media files will serve as evidence during negotiations or a court hearing.
- Seek Medical Treatment: Head to a medical center once you've taken the required details from the accident scene. Although you might think it's just a bruise that can be solved with some antibiotics, you might have internal injuries brewing. To avoid complications, visit a doctor and request a thorough examination. Ensure you get a copy of your bills, as they'll play a significant role in determining compensation.
- Contact an Auto Injury Attorney: After an accident, the at-fault party's insurance entity might want to ask you specific questions. These questions are trick questions that might undervalue your claim. Thus, it'll be best to hire an experienced Lancaster, PA, auto injury attorney to represent you and answer these claims on your behalf.
- Give Your Attorney a Detailed Rundown of What Happened: Once you've hired an attorney, tell them what happened verbatim without leaving out any detail. Lies will hurt your case, as the at-fault party's legal team will seek all possible avenues to sieve a loophole.
Damages You're Eligible for in an Auto Injury Accident Claim
An auto crash can place a financial burden on victims. If you've been involved in one, you can be settled for the following damages:
#1 Medical Bills
If you visited the hospital to get yourself treated, you're eligible to receive a settlement for the following:
● Surgical expenses
● Ambulance rides to and from the hospital
● Doctor appointments
● Medical device expenses
● Rehabilitation or therapy charges
● Hospitalization costs
● Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
#2 Unpaid Wages
Auto accidents will see you miss work. Most employers won't pay a cent to individuals who skip work, even for health reasons. You can seek damages for bonuses or wages you earned if the accident didn't occur.
Sometimes, auto accidents might result in issues requiring a job switch. Here, you can secure benefits you would've made in your previous job — especially if you switched to a low-paying job.
#3 Property Damages
Another damage form you can claim in your auto injury claim is property damages. If your car had a major dent due to the accident, you could seek a fitting settlement for what you've spent on repairs or refurbishments.
During the repair period, you probably boarded a bus or train. You can get compensation for money spent on these transit alternatives in court.
#4 Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering are called "non-economic damages" as they aren't financially quantifiable.
These damages include:
● Physical pain
● Loss of life's enjoyment
● Mental anguish
● Disability or disfigurement
● Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
● Inability to execute hobbies and interests
● Loss of relationship or consortium
#5 Burial or Funeral Costs
If a loved one died because of an auto accident caused by another individual, you could file a wrongful death suit on their behalf.
This lawsuit will see you get a settlement for expenses attached to your relative's demise.
Notable mentions include:
● Funeral expenses
● Burial costs
● Loss of emotional and financial backing
● Lost income and work benefits
#6 Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are the extras meted out by a judge if the at-fault party's negligence caused the auto crash. These verdicts are made to deter people from making similar mistakes on roadways.
NOTE: If the compensatory damages given to the auto crash victim is $200,000, adding punitive damages may lead to a four-fold rise — $800,000 — payable by the at-fault party.
Why You Need to Hire an Attorney for Your Auto Accident Claim
Although it might seem expensive to consult a lawyer, note that these legal experts are your best bet to get a settlement that suits your losses.
Here are some reasons why having attorneys by your side in an auto accident claim is essential:
- Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the at-fault party's insurance to ensure the settlement received suits the losses you've incurred from the accident. Insurance firms are known for issuing lowball settlements. With an attorney in your corner, your chances of receiving deserving compensation are high.
- Peace of Mind: Instead of going through the hassle of filing claims before their deadlines, an attorney can do the work for you while you focus on what's crucial — healing!
- Gather Evidence: Although you might have evidence (in the form of pictures and videos of the accident scene), the best auto injury Lancaster, PA, attorney will go the extra mile to sieve out additional proof to create a rock-solid case on your behalf.
- Represent You in Court: Not all auto injury claims witness an out-of-court settlement. With a lawyer in your corner, you don't have to fret. They'll litigate passionately on your behalf and ensure you receive a favorable verdict.
Major Takeaway
Auto accidents can happen anytime. If you were involved in one, and you're sure it happened due to someone else's negligence, you can file a lawsuit.
Contact the top-notch auto injury lawyers at Georgelis Law to get the ball rolling. Revered for going the "extra mile" for clients, our attorneys will ensure you get fair compensation on your claim.
Contact us today, and we'll review your case for free!
FAQs
How Long Do You Have to File an Auto Accident Claim in Lancaster, PA?
According to Pennsylvania's statute of limitations, you have 2 years to file a claim after the initial accident.
How Do I Select the Finest Lawyer for My Claim?
To sieve out the finest auto accident injury attorneys in Lancaster, PA, consider the following aspects:
● Experience
● Communication
● Accessibility
● Track record
● Online reviews from previous patrons
Who Is the Best Auto Accident Attorney in Lancaster, PA?
You'll find the best auto accident lawyers in Lancaster, PA, at Georgelis Law Firm.
The first aspect in mind most people who suffer from an auto accident is their car.
Auto accidents are inconvenient to the vehicle and to its victims where they can experience blatant pains and symptoms.
To know more visit us.
