Car Accident Lawyer

• Statute of Limitations: In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of the deceased’s death. This is outlined in the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act.
• Exceptions: There are some exceptions that may extend or shorten this period, such as if the responsible party was a government entity, in which case shorter deadlines might apply.
• Importance of Timeliness: It is crucial to file your claim within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation. Delays can result in the loss of evidence and weaken your case.
• Consult an Attorney: A wrongful death attorney can provide guidance on the specific deadlines applicable to your case and help ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken in a timely manner.

‍

• Injury or Harm: You must have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to another party's negligence or intentional misconduct. Common injuries include broken bones, head injuries, or emotional distress.
• Negligence: Determine if another party’s negligence caused your injury. Negligence involves a failure to exercise reasonable care, such as a driver running a red light or a property owner failing to maintain safe conditions.
• Causation: Establish a direct link between the negligent behavior and your injury. This means proving that the harm you suffered was a direct result of the other party’s actions.
• Damages: Evaluate the damages you have incurred, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You need to quantify these damages to pursue compensation effectively.
• Consult an Attorney: Personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to assess the viability of your case. They can help determine if you have a valid claim based on the specifics of your situation.

Contact your Philadelphia personal injury attorney, John D. Pallante today!

• Ensure Safety: First and foremost, check if you or anyone else is injured. If it's safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Philadelphia police will also document the scene and create an accident report, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
• Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, and any injuries. If possible, also capture the surrounding area, traffic signals, and road conditions.
• Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved, including witnesses. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance policy details.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from discussing fault or making statements that could be interpreted as accepting liability. Fault determination is often complex and should be left to the insurance companies and legal professionals.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s wise to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate information and cooperate fully with their investigation.
• Consult with a Lawyer: For severe accidents or complex situations, consulting with a personal injury attorney can be beneficial. They can guide you through the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.

‍