Whether you’re involved in a fender-bender or a pile-up on the highway, any type of motor vehicle accident can cause injury. Although some cases may seem straightforward, it can be difficult to know the long-term effects of some injuries. At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad, our personal injury lawyers advise clients to get a free case evaluation after any crash. Still, it’s imperative if any of the following circumstances are involved.
The Accident Caused Serious Injury or Death
If you or a loved one has sustained a serious injury in an accident, you need a lawyer. Motor vehicle accidents involving catastrophic injury or death can have disastrous physical, emotional, and financial repercussions. An attorney can gather evidence and determine who was at fault for the accident and advise whether you have a potential personal injury or wrongful death claim.
Accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company or negotiating on your own is typically a losing proposition. The cost of treating and living with serious conditions such as traumatic brain injury, spinal injuries, and other catastrophic injuries can reach into the millions of dollars. If you’re unable to work because of a permanent disability or have lost a loved one who was the breadwinner of your household, the financial aftermath of an accident can be devastating. A knowledgeable car accident attorney can determine the value of your claim, guide you through the process, and fight to help you recover the maximum compensation you need and deserve.
Multiple Parties Were Involved In The Crash
It can be a nightmare to sort out who is liable for damages when more than two vehicles are involved in an accident. You may not know which insurance company (or companies) to contact to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. In some cases, faulty parts, vehicle malfunction, or dangerous road conditions may be a factor, as well. A car accident attorney can make sure that all possible sources of compensation are identified and pursued. This is also important if you’re injured in a collision involving a rideshare driver or company such as Uber or Lyft.
You Were Involved In A Crash With A Tractor-Trailer Or Other Commercial Truck
Due to their enormous size and weight, tractor-trailers and other large trucks can cause significant injury, property damage, and death. Victims of truck accidents often sustain permanent injuries that leave them unable to work and have a major impact on their quality of life. Many trucking companies have insurance adjusters who show up at the scene of an accident and use underhanded tactics to minimize or deny claims. Don’t speak to any insurance company representative, sign anything, or accept a settlement without first speaking to an accident lawyer who is experienced in handling cases involving commercial trucks. Multiple parties may be liable for damages in these types of cases as well, so it’s critical to have a skilled attorney by your side.
You’re Involved In An Accident As A Pedestrian, Bicyclist, or Motorcyclist
Being hit without having the protection of a vehicle surrounding you can be life-altering and can lead to serious injuries such as amputation, paralysis, disfigurement, TBI, or death. Pedestrian, bicycle, and motorcycle accidents are often caused by distracted or aggressive drivers who need to be held accountable for the damage they cause.
The Accident Involved An Uninsured Or Underinsured Driver
All motorists in Pennsylvania must have liability insurance, but unfortunately, there are many uninsured drivers on the road. Not only that, even if someone has insurance, it may not be enough to cover all your medical bills, wage loss, pain and suffering, and other damages. In these types of cases, you may be able to recover compensation from the UIM/UM and PIP coverage included in your own insurance policy. This may also apply if you’re involved in an accident with a hit and run driver. A car accident attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and advise you of your options for pursuing compensation.
Time Has Passed Since The Accident
If you don’t discover an injury until months after an accident, things can get tricky. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania is two years. A lawyer can ensure that all required deadlines are met, so you don’t lose your chance to file an accident claim or personal injury lawsuit. If you’ve already filed a claim and the insurance company is giving you the runaround, contacting a personal injury attorney can show you mean business, resolve the claim more quickly, and help you recover the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve.
Contact A Car Accident Attorney
If you need a lawyer after a car accident, our team at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad can help. We represent clients throughout the Lehigh Valley and Eastern PA. Call our Bath office at 610-867-2900 or contact us online today.