Driving is the most common method of transportation used by Pennsylvania residents and it is also the most dangerous one. A single reckless or careless act by another driver can lead to a collision that leaves you dealing with substantial physical injuries as well as emotional and financial losses.
If you were recently involved in a severe collision, our dedicated personal injury lawyers can help. Jon Ostroff, Founding Partner at Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers, has successfully handled thousands of auto accident claims.
In a previous case, our team recovered over $6 million in total settlements on behalf of seven occupants who were injured in a severe crash on a rural highway. With an Emmaus car accident lawyer by your side, you have a much better chance of holding the person who caused your wreck accountable for your injuries.
What Does Negligence Look Like in Car Crash Claims?
Like all other personal injury claims in Pennsylvania, car accident lawsuits generally revolve around the concept of “negligence.” A person is negligent if they owe a “duty” to someone else to act responsibly, violate that duty and directly cause an accident resulting in physical injury.
Negligence in a car crash case may be an overt violation of the rules of the road, like exceeding the speed limit or failing to stop for a stop sign. In other situations, reckless or careless behavior, like when a driver is DUI or distracted because they are on their cell phone or texting, can significantly raise the value of a personal injury claim if this leads to a wreck.
Partial Negligence
Injured accident victims can also be partially liable for an accident. In this type of situation, your damages award will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. If you are more at fault than the defendant, you could be barred from recovery altogether. An auto wreck attorney in Emmaus can go explain how partial fault might impact recovery in your situation.
Recovering for All Compensable Losses After an Accident in Emmaus
The first stage of financial recovery in a car accident claim almost always goes through your car insurance provider. Your personal injury protection coverage (referred to as “PIP”) in your policy should cover all out-of-pocket expenses related to the wreck up to policy limits. Any losses beyond what your insurance covers may be factored into a settlement demand or lawsuit against an at-fault party. If you have “full tort” coverage, you may seek restitution for the full value of all past and future losses, including:
Pain and suffering
Lost wages and lost professional opportunities
Past and future medical expenses
Emotional anguish
Loss of life’s pleasures
Loss of consortium
Individuals with “limited tort” coverage may face restrictions on when they can seek restitution for non-economic losses. However, a skilled lawyer can help you recover full compensation for your car accident injuries no matter what type of insurance you have.
Get in Touch with an Emmaus Car Accident Attorney Right Away
Even seemingly minor auto accidents can result in severe injuries and damages. The more substantial the damage and injuries caused by a wreck are, the harder it may be to recover fair compensation. Our Emmaus car accident lawyers at Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers are ready to fight for you and hold the other party accountable. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
