Have you been injured in a car accident in Lancaster, Pennsylvania? Marzzacco Niven & Associates can help when you contact us at 717-231-1640. We offer a free consultation with a Lancaster car accident lawyer who can review your case, explain your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Car accidents can leave victims facing permanent injuries and overwhelming financial losses. Knowing what steps to take after a crash is critical to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. With strong resources and experience, we are ready to pursue your claim and guide you every step of the way.
How Marzzacco Niven & Associates Helps Clients with Car Accident Claims in Lancaster, PA
Our lawyers at Marzzacco Niven & Associates have more than 120 years of shared experience representing accident victims. We have recovered tens of millions in compensation for our injured clients in Pennsylvania.
Our top-rated personal injury attorneys help accident victims seek compensation for damages by:
- Investigating the accident to gather and preserve evidence proving your claim
- Working with experts, as necessary, to build a strong case
- Assisting you with documenting damages to maximize the value of your case
- Filing all paperwork for claims and lawsuits
- Negotiating a settlement with the insurance company
- Litigating your claim if the insurance company refuses to agree to a fair settlement
Our legal team includes attorneys who have been recognized by The National Trial Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and the Best Lawyers in America. Our client’s best interest is our top priority.
Contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer about your options after a car crash in Lancaster, PA.
Key Steps To Take After a Car Accident in Lancaster, PA
If you are injured in a car accident in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, there are critical legal steps and deadlines you need to follow to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Steps to take after a car accident include:
- Ensure safety and call emergency services: If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Police response is mandatory if there are injuries or significant property damage, as an official report will help with insurance and legal claims. Because minor injuries may not be immediately apparent, it is always wise to call the police to make an official report.
- Exchange information: Collect the other driver’s name, contact info, insurance details, and vehicle registration.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Note the weather, road conditions, and any relevant details.
- Seek medical treatment promptly: Even if you feel fine, some injuries show symptoms later. Early medical records are crucial for injury claims.
Taking the right steps after a crash can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim.
How Long Do I Have To File a Lawsuit for a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for compensation. Missing the statute of limitations generally bars you from filing a lawsuit. There are exceptions to this rule; therefore, it is advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I Recover Compensation if I Am Partially at Fault for My Accident?
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found partly at fault, your compensation is reduced proportionally, but you cannot recover damages if you are 51% or more at fault.
For example, if you are 30% at fault, you can recover 70% of your total damages. If you are more than 50% at fault, however, you won’t be able to recover at all.
Pennsylvania’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
Drivers in Pennsylvania have the option to choose between full tort and limited tort car insurance coverage when purchasing a policy.
Your ability to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for pain and suffering is restricted by limited tort insurance. Your injuries must meet the legal definition of “serious injury” (death, serious bodily impairment, or permanent serious disfigurement).
Full tort allows you to sue for full damages, including non-economic losses, regardless of injury severity. However, there is a notable exception. You may sue for pain and suffering under limited tort if the at-fault driver was convicted of DUI or was uninsured.
Types of Compensation You Can Pursue for a Lancaster Car Accident
Depending on the factors involved in your car accident case, you may be entitled to seek economic damages. These damages include your monetary losses, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Loss of earnings
- Future medical care
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-economic damages compensate an accident victim for their personal losses. Examples of these damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
The value of your damages depends on many factors.
Get Help with an Accident Claim – Schedule a Free Case Review with our Lancaster Car Accident Lawyers
By following these guidelines carefully and contacting Marzzacco Niven & Associates promptly, you can protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve after a car accident in Lancaster, PA. Call our office to schedule a free case evaluation with a Lancaster car accident lawyer.