Can You Sue for a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

Car accidents caused by other drivers often leave victims facing extensive injuries, property damage, and other burdens. Therefore, pursuing fair compensation is often necessary to relieve financial stress.

But what is the best way to obtain compensation? Is it possible to sue the other driver? The short answer is yes; in many cases, you can sue for a car accident in Pennsylvania. However, a car accident lawyer can provide personalized advice and guidance and determine the best way to seek monetary recovery for your losses. For this reason, if you have suffered injuries in an accident, you should call a Pittsburgh car accident attorney as soon as you can.

When You Can Sue for a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

Filing a lawsuit may or may not be necessary to recover compensation after a car accident. It all depends on the circumstances.

Usually, you’ll first pursue compensation through an insurance claim. If the insurance company refuses to make a fair settlement offer, you will likely need to file a lawsuit in order to get the compensation you deserve.

Additionally, while Pennsylvania requires drivers to have auto insurance, many drivers break the law and drive without any coverage. If you’re involved in a collision with an uninsured driver, you should call an attorney right away to learn what your options are and what is required of you as the victim of an uninsured driver.

After a car crash, you can seek compensation for your accident-related damages, which could include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. In certain situations, you could also sue to collect non-monetary damages, like pain and suffering.

It is important to note, however, that time is limited to sue. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations that restricts your time to file a lawsuit is two years from the date of your collision.

How to Sue for a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

Before filing a lawsuit, it’s best to investigate your accident to gather facts. This includes the exact cause of your collision and fault.

Once you’re ready to file your lawsuit after a car accident, you’ll start by filing your petition in court. The petition contains information regarding your accident, including cause and liability, and details of the relief you seek.

After filing your petition, you’ll “serve” the opposing party with copies of your court filings as notice of the impending lawsuit. They’ll then have limited time to file their response with the court.

The bulk of your lawsuit is spent in the discovery phase. During this time, both sides have the chance to request and obtain pertinent evidence to strengthen their claims.

A majority of personal injury lawsuits settle once discovery has concluded and before going to court. If settlement negotiations are successful, you can forgo trial, and your case is concluded. Should settlement negotiations not yield favorable results, your case is decided by a judge or jury in court.

Lawsuits can be challenging to handle alone, which is why hiring a skilled car accident attorney as soon as possible after your collision is key. A lawyer can ensure case tasks are handled timely and help you obtain the fairest result.

Call Us Today to Schedule a Consultation with a Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyer

After a collision, you may have several options to pursue financial recovery. For this reason, it’s wise to speak with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer as soon as you’re able. The sooner you consult with an attorney, the quicker they’re able to start working on your behalf.

To schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney in Pittsburgh, call our office today or contact us online.