A car accident can be a life-changing event, leaving you overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. From dealing with injuries and vehicle damage to navigating insurance claims, the aftermath can be confusing. It’s essential to know your rights and the steps you need to take to protect yourself and secure the compensation you deserve.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the most important actions to take after a car accident and how The Pisanchyn Law Firm can help you every step of the way.
1. Ensure Safety First
The first thing to do after an accident is to check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents. Turning on your hazard lights can also help alert other drivers.
Tip: Stay calm and don’t leave the scene, even if the accident seems minor. Leaving could lead to serious legal consequences.
2. Call the Police
Always contact the police after a car accident, no matter how minor it seems. A police report is crucial for filing an insurance claim and can serve as valuable evidence if you decide to pursue legal action. When speaking with the police, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault, as this can be used against you later.
Did you know? In Pennsylvania, a police report is required if there are any injuries, deaths, or significant property damage.
3. Gather Evidence
While waiting for the police, start gathering evidence if you’re able to. Take pictures of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, including:
- Name and contact info
- Insurance details
- License plate number
- Driver’s license number
If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well. Evidence gathered immediately after the accident can be crucial when building your case.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away but can have long-term effects. Seeing a doctor not only ensures your health but also creates a medical record, which will be important for your claim.
Important: Insurance companies often try to downplay injuries. Don’t let them! A medical evaluation helps prove the extent of your injuries.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be cautious when giving statements, and avoid admitting fault. Stick to the facts, and let your attorney handle the discussions moving forward.
6. Know Your Legal Rights
In Pennsylvania, you have the right to pursue compensation if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence. This can include:
- Medical expenses for both immediate and long-term treatment
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injuries
- Property damage to repair or replace your vehicle
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life
Why Choose The Pisanchyn Law Firm?
Dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and legal paperwork after an accident can be overwhelming. That’s where The Pisanchyn Law Firm comes in. We have decades of experience handling car accident claims in Pennsylvania, and we fight aggressively to ensure our clients get the compensation they deserve.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- No upfront fees: You only pay if we win your case.
- Free consultations: We’ll review your case for free and explain your legal options.
- Proven results: We’ve recovered millions for our clients.
- Personalized attention: Every case is unique, and we’ll work closely with you to build the strongest possible claim.
When to Contact a Car Accident Attorney
It’s best to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash. The sooner you have legal representation, the better protected your rights will be. At The Pisanchyn Law Firm, we’ll handle the legal process so you can focus on recovering.
The Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. That may sound like plenty of time, but building a strong case requires gathering evidence, medical records, and other documentation. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact The Pisanchyn Law Firm today.
What Compensation Can You Receive After a Car Accident?
Every car accident case is different, but you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills: Current and future treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy costs.
- Lost wages: If you can’t work due to your injuries.
- Property damage: To repair or replace your vehicle.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the emotional and physical stress caused by the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injury prevents you from enjoying daily activities or hobbies.
Get a Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait. Contact The Pisanchyn Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, help you understand your legal rights, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (570) 344-1234 to schedule your free consultation.
