Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorneys

Hurt in a Car? Call HHR! Free Case Review at (888) 498-3023.

Our car accident attorneys understand what auto collision victims go through. Medical bills pile up while their injuries keep them from going back to work. With the loss of income comes stress, guilt, and anger—after all, all they want to do is go back to providing for their family. The only way they can think of getting what they need is hiring a lawyer to hold the other driver responsible.

If all this sounds familiar to you, you've come to the right law firm. Since 1922, Handler, Henning & Rosenberg has handled tens of thousands of car accident claims in Pennsylvania. Our law firm has won tens of millions of dollars for people who thought their accident took away their future. The work of our personal injury lawyers ensured clients could pay off 100 percent of their medical debt, could replenish their savings accounts, and could build a more secure future. Our Central Pennsylvania car accident lawyers offer free case reviews to discuss your recovery options—all it takes is one call. 

To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today. We represent plaintiffs in car accident claims from offices in Carlisle, Hanover, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Schuylkill County, and York, PA.

What Does a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer Do?

A car accident lawyer is a legal professional who manages personal injury cases involving motor vehicle accidents. They are responsible for representing clients injured in accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles and seeking compensation on their behalf. 

Pennsylvania car accident attorneys are instrumental in ensuring that victims receive full support and guidance throughout the legal process. By understanding the complexities of Pennsylvania law, these lawyers provide invaluable assistance in navigating the legal system, which can be daunting for those unfamiliar with it. Their role is not limited to just legal representation; they also serve as advocates, providing emotional and practical support to help clients rebuild their lives with confidence after an accident.

The Role of a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer Includes:

1. Investigating the Accident

A Pennsylvania car accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to gather evidence and determine its cause. This may involve reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, analyzing photos and videos, and consulting with experts.

2. Establishing Liability

After investigating the accident, the Pennsylvania car accident lawyer will work to establish liability by proving that another party was at fault for the accident. This may involve demonstrating that the at-fault party was negligent, reckless, or in violation of traffic laws.

3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims to protect their bottom line. A Pennsylvania car accident lawyer will negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

4. Calculating Damages

A Pennsylvania car accident lawyer will help you determine the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. They will use this information to calculate a fair settlement amount and present it to the insurance company or at-fault party.

5. Representing You in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, a Pennsylvania car accident lawyer will represent you in court and present your case before a judge or jury. They will advocate for your rights and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

A well-prepared lawyer can provide crucial assistance during court proceedings, ensuring that all legal documents are filed correctly and that the case is presented in the most compelling manner possible. Their expertise in courtroom procedures and negotiations is an asset to any case, reinforcing the likelihood of a positive outcome for the client.

PennDOT 2023 Car Accident Statistics

• Total Reported Crashes: 110,382
• Total Non-Fatal Injuries: 66,546
• Total Deaths in PA: 1,209

Economic loss due to reported traffic crashes amounted to $2,262 for every man, woman, and child.

Top Causes of Driver Error Car Accidents

• Speed-Related Crashes: 23,070
• DUI-Related Accidents: 7,350
• Improper Turning Related: 10,529
• Distracted Drivers: 9,011
• Proceeding Without Clearance: 13,432
• Careless / Illegal Passing: 5,232
• Tailgating: 5,562
• Drowsy Drivers: 2,706

Types of Pennsylvania Car Accident Claims We Handle

Drunk Driving Accidents

Per drunk driving statistics from 2023, DUI accidents accounted for 25 percent of all traffic-related deaths in Pennsylvania, with 308 people losing their lives in DUI accidents in the Commonwealth. Per the NHTSA, approximately 37 people die each day in alcohol-related crashes. 

Our drunk driving accident attorneys fight for clients injured by drivers under the influence. We work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensure victims of DUI accidents get what they need to cover medical bills, lost income, and other losses caused by a crash. Our detailed research and dedicated approach empower victims and their families to regain control of their lives and futures.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving is becoming one of the most common reasons for car accidents. Distracted driving due to texting and other distractions is increasing throughout the United States. Almost 3,522 people lost their lives in distracted driving accidents during 2021. 

The repercussions of distracted driving can extend beyond the immediate aftermath of an accident. Victims often face long-term recovery processes and financial instability due to ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation costs. By taking legal action, victims can work towards regaining financial stability, ensuring they receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

When a driver hits another vehicle and leaves the scene without sharing information, they can be charged with causing a hit-and-run accident. These accidents may be connected with other types listed here, such as distracted driving and speeding. 

Addressing the challenges of hit-and-run cases, our Pennsylvania car accident attorneys prioritize gathering evidence to identify the driver who hit our client, enhancing the likelihood of recovery. We collaborate with local authorities and use advanced investigation resources to pursue every possible lead.

Head-On Accidents

Head-on collisions can be one of the deadliest types of car accidents. In a head-on collision, the front of the vehicle can crush passengers, pinning them between the dashboard and the seat.

Survivors of head-on collisions often contend with severe injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries, which necessitate extensive medical treatment. Our approach involves thorough case evaluation, including engaging medical professionals, to present a robust claim for necessary compensation. We prioritize securing damages for medical care, rehabilitation, and any adaptive equipment required for recovery.

Rear-End Crashes (Fender Benders)

A rear-end collision occurs when the car in front suddenly stops or the car in the back speeds faster than the car in front. In almost all cases, the car in the rear is blamed for the crash. At speeds as low as 20 mph, victims of rear-end collisions can suffer back injuries and chronic neck pain due to whiplash. It doesn't take much speed for an impact to severely hurt someone.

Our legal team thoroughly examines the specifics of each rear-end collision case, proactively collaborating with experts in accident reconstruction to ascertain the exact cause and fault. This ensures that the claims are supported by credible testimonies and scientific evidence, improving the prospects of obtaining a favorable resolution for clients.

Commercial Truck Accidents

Accidents caused by large commercial vehicles are catastrophic for passengers of other vehicles. In more than 70 percent of truck accidents, the injuries and fatalities are passengers of the other vehicles. A typical passenger vehicle simply cannot withstand the impact from a tractor-trailer; therefore, the occupants are severely injured. Because insurance companies aggressively fight truck accident claims, victims should contact a Pennsylvania truck accident attorney as soon as possible to protect their rights.

Our dedicated team tackles the intricate details of trucking regulations and aggressive insurance practices. By understanding federal and state laws governing commercial trucking operations, we bolster the strength of our representation. We focus on identifying all parties accountable, such as trucking companies, for logistics oversight that led to the accident, ensuring that justice is achieved comprehensively.

Traffic Accidents with Government Vehicles

If a government vehicle is involved in a traffic accident, you must act quickly. In most cases, you must provide notice of your intent to file a claim within a short time period or you lose your right to compensation from the government entity. For car accidents involving government vehicles, contact our office immediately to protect your right to receive fair financial compensation.

We understand the stringent procedural demands associated with claims against government entities. Our attorneys are adept at navigating these complexities, ensuring timely submissions of necessary legal documents. We explore all avenues of potential liability to optimize the compensation attainable for victims, safeguarding their rights amidst challenging bureaucratic processes.

Speeding Accidents

Driving too fast for the road conditions or your vehicle is dangerous. One false move and you are out of control, which could not only injure you, but also innocent victims. Be conscientious about your speed, drive within your limits (and your vehicle’s limits), and avoid hurting yourself or anyone else around you.

In addressing cases stemming from speeding accidents, our legal experts assess environmental factors and vehicle conditions that might have exacerbated the event. This careful inquiry assists in crafting a complete narrative, effectively demonstrating negligence and securing appropriate restitution for physical and emotional damages endured by our clients.

Accidents Caused by Fatigued Drivers

While truck drivers are typically thought of when speaking of fatigued drivers, virtually anyone can fall into this category. Although most car accidents attributed to fatigued drivers happen between 11 pm and 8 am, some folks keep different hours than the rest of us. People working the night shift can be fatigued on their way home while most people are heading into the office for the day.

Fatigue-related accidents often require a nuanced understanding of both drivers' working hours and sleep patterns. We take a meticulous approach by analyzing work schedules, obtaining expert testimonies on sleep deprivation, and examining travel logs to establish clear evidence of driver fatigue, holding those accountable for negligence.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers have a bad reputation for a good reason. These are one of the most serious types of crashes because of their high fatality rate. Despite being one of the least common types of car accidents, rollovers kill a significant number of Americans each year. Per the NHTSA, rollover accidents account for just 2.1 percent of accidents. However, these accidents account for nearly 35 percent of all car accident fatalities. Rollover accidents are deadly, yet completely preventable. In fact, in Pennsylvania, rollover accidents account for nearly 3.7 percent of passenger car accidents but make up 18.5 percent of fatalities. 

When a tire loses traction, a vehicle is at risk of becoming unstable. When a person drives a vehicle outside of its performance limits, attempts an emergency maneuver, or drives in severe weather, they might lose tire traction. As a remedy, many modern vehicles come equipped with traction control systems. Known as Electric Stability Control, these help drivers prevent rollovers by up to 80 percent by reducing power to wheels and preventing them from losing their grip. The NHTSA has required all vehicles produced since 2012 to have ESC. This requirement will save an estimated 5,300-9,600 lives.

Our team ensures thorough explorations of rollover cases, focusing on vehicle design factors, driver actions, and road conditions. By engaging experts in vehicle dynamics and accident reconstruction, we critically assess whether deficits in vehicle safety or poor driver judgment contributed to causing the accident. This solid, evidence-backed approach facilitates favorable findings in complex rollover claims.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents & Pile-Up Accidents

Serious and fatal accidents often involve multiple vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, or even emergency vehicles. Multi-vehicle accidents are often catastrophic and can result in life-changing injuries and even death. The mass of damage and crushed vehicles makes it difficult, or nearly impossible, for victims to protect themselves before another vehicle strikes them. During multi-vehicle collisions, vehicles tend to be hit numerous times, causing passengers to sustain multiple injuries. These types of accidents can occur for a variety of reasons and at virtually any type of location.

Common pile-up accident crash sites include:

• Intersections: It can be difficult for cars to stop quickly if they are following another vehicle closely. Running a red light, not yielding, or stopping suddenly can all cause multi-vehicle crashes.
• Highways: Speeding, being distracted, or tailgating other vehicles at high speeds can contribute to multi-vehicle crashes. On the highway, the impact of a collision will be worse.
• Rear-end: Tailgating another vehicle and being distracted can cause a driver to rear-end the vehicle in front of them. Rear-end collisions can cause a chain reaction and create a multi-vehicle accident.
• Cross Lane: Vehicles can be sent across several lanes when they are struck in a collision, causing them to hit many other vehicles. In collisions like semi-truck jackknife accidents, the length of the sideways trailer can be long enough to block three or four lanes at once.

Our legal representation for multi-vehicle accidents includes rigorous analysis of police records, crash reports, and witness testimonies to accurately determine responsibility for initiating collisions. We prioritize identifying the cascade of actions leading to such disasters, ensuring comprehensive accountability, determination, and fair restitution possibilities for involved parties.

About No-Fault Insurance & Liability Insurance Claims

You may have more financial options than you think. Car accident claims in Pennsylvania involves a combination of “no-fault” and “at-fault” insurance claims. Drivers have several auto insurance options. Under the law, “no-fault” insurance benefits include compensation for medical expenses and lost wages resulting from the accident. “At fault” or “liability” benefits include non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and mental anguish.

In some cases, at-fault drivers lack sufficient liability insurance to compensate our clients. In such cases, we have identified other sources of insurance coverage to ensure that the financial compensation you receive is fair and just. Our accident investigators have uncovered multiple sources of fault in thousands of cases, allowing us to generate total financial relief for the injured. Our car crash lawyers have handled tens of thousands of these cases throughout the state since 1922. We are ready to fight for your future.

Pennsylvania Car Accident FAQ 

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Car Accident?

Immediately after a crash, the primary concern is safety. Ensure that all parties involved are unharmed, and call 911 for any injuries. It's crucial to report the accident to the police, even for minor fender-benders, as this will provide an official record of what occurred. Documenting the scene is essential, so take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Gather witness statements and contact information to support your case later. Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly, as delays can impact claims. Finally, call a Pennsylvania car accident attorney as soon as possible. We can secure your rights and guide you through the complex insurance claim process.

How Does Pennsylvania's No-Fault Insurance Affect My Claim?

Pennsylvania's unique 'choice no-fault' system allows drivers to select between full tort and limited tort coverage options. This decision significantly affects how much you're able to recover. With limited tort, you have restrictions on claiming damages for pain and suffering unless you sustain serious injuries. However, full tort allows broader rights to claim these non-economic damages irrespective of injury severity. Understanding these distinctions is vital when purchasing policies, as it can severely limit your financial recovery after an accident. 

If you're uncertain about your coverage's impact on your right to recovery after an accident, consult a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Pennsylvania to learn your recovery options.

What Should I Know About Insurance Adjuster Tactics?

Dealing with insurance adjusters requires caution, as their primary role is to minimize the payout for their company. They may attempt to record conversations, obtain statements that downplay your injuries, or offer quick settements that seem fair but are below what you might deserve. It's paramount to speak cautiously and avoid admitting fault prematurely. Relying on an experienced car accident lawyer to handle communications ensures that any settlement or negotiation considers your full costs, including future medical expenses and non-economic damages. Remember, what seems like a straightforward conversation can have significant implications on your financial recovery process.

How Can an Attorney Help with Medical Bills Post-Accident?

An attorney plays a crucial role in managing medical expenses following an auto accident by ensuring all incurred and future costs are covered in your settlement. They coordinate with medical professionals to accurately document your injuries, treatments necessary, and any long-term care plan, which shores up the legitimacy of your compensation requests. Skilled attorneys can negotiate reduced rates with healthcare providers, delaying payment until the case resolves, thereby relieving financial stress on victims. Being proactive with an attorney's assistance facilitates a comprehensive financial recovery framework that addresses immediate expenses while safeguarding against unforeseen future medical obligations.

Should I Call a Lawyer for a ‘Minor’ Accident?

Even minor accidents can have serious long-term consequences that aren't immediately obvious. Hidden injuries such as whiplash or concussions may not manifest symptoms immediately, yet they have significant long-term health effects. Minor collision claims might appear straightforward but can be more complex when involving insurance negotiations or future medical incidents. Having a car accident lawyer in your corner means you'll become aware of potential problems, have your documentation handled by an experienced litigator, know what damages to claim, and even the playing field with insurers. Early consultation establishes legitimate claims, ensures comprehensive evaluations, and fortifies your position in future settlement negotiations.

The Car Accident Lawyers Pennsylvania Has Relied On Since 1922

If you have been injured in a car crash, including Uber and Lyft accidents, seek advice from an attorney without delay. This ensures your claim is filed within the time limits required by law and allows important evidence to be preserved. Our firm has offices across the state, making our representation stress-free and convenient. Contact us immediately to learn more about how our firm can help you. 

At HHR, we represent car accident victims throughout Pennsylvania and are prepared to help with personal injury cases of all kinds. Regardless of whether you suffered serious property damage, catastrophic injuries, or if you lost a loved one and are now facing a wrongful death case, give us a call. From motorcycle accidents to truck accidents and everything in between, we're the team to trust.

Contact Handler, Henning & Rosenberg at (888) 498-3023 to schedule an appointment.