Car Accident Lawyer in Norristown

Common Causes of Auto Collision Claims

Unfortunately, car accidents happen every day and for a variety of reasons. The cases we handle generally occur because of driver negligence, such as when the operator is tired, distracted, or careless. We primarily only represent the not-at-fault victim in accident cases.

The at fault party is usually liable for damages to the victim because of some failure on their part such as by speeding. Here in Norristown, we see a lot of accident cases. The most common involve intoxicated driving which remains a significant cause of wrecks in PA. We also see many accidents caused by drivers who are exhausted and drowsy as well as due to inexperience such as in the case of teen drivers. Elderly drivers too seem to routinely cause accidents due to impaired reflexes and senses.

Our attorneys have extensive experience developing claims regardless the cause.

Is Pennsylvania a No-Fault Insurance State?

Pennsylvania uses a no-fault car insurance rule, meaning that after most vehicle accidents, the injured party’s carrier provides coverage for lost wages and medical expenses regardless of who caused the collision. The rule applies to injured passengers as well, as they receive coverage from their driver’s insurance company. Therefore, only major accidents involving serious injuries and vehicle damage result in liability charges. Speaking with a well-practiced lawyer in Norristown could help someone injured in a car crash determine if they have grounds for civil litigation.

Common Injuries Sustained in Car Wrecks

Severe auto wrecks can result in substantial physical harm to the vehicle occupants. In some cases, car collisions can result in permanent, catastrophic harm. Common injuries suffered in motor vehicle accidents include:

• Head and brain trauma
• Multiple broken bones
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Third-degree burns
• Lacerations

The death of the driver or passengers warrants a wrongful death suit from surviving family members. Due to the long-term implications, these injuries could have on an injured motorist, a Norristown attorney could help them calculate their financial and personal losses that resulted from the wreck.

Statute of Limitations

If a car collision was severe enough to call for legal action, the plaintiff has two years to file a claim according to 42 Pennsylvania Code § 5524. Filing a car wreck case after the two-year period typically results in a case dismissal, which is why working with an experienced attorney in Norristown is so important. A legal representative could ensure all necessary documents get filed before the deadline.

Reach Out to a Norristown Car Accident Attorney for Guidance

Speak with a Norristown car accident lawyer today if you were hurt in a collision caused by another person’s negligence. A compassionate attorney could hear your case and let you know whether moving forward with a claim is the right course of action.  Contact our law firm today to discuss your options.

Rear-End Car Crashes in Norristown

Motor vehicle wrecks happen every day and can lead to many different types of injuries. Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of motor vehicle crash. If someone hits the back of your car, proving fault is typically extremely easy.

While determining liability for a vehicle accident is straightforward, the reality is most claims like this can be difficult to collect on without help. This is because insurance companies deal with these claims on a daily basis and mitigate claims and confuse victims into signing agreements for reduced claims as a matter of routine.

So even if your accident seems straight forward such as in the case of a rear-ending, talking to one of our attorneys is a must before signing anything or even talking to the insurance company.

At Fault or Not

Proving who is responsible is essential to recovering compensation for damages sustained in a wreck like this. Determining who the responsible party is for a vehicle collision like this might seem to be a simple task, however, it is not always solely the fault of the vehicle in the back of a rear-end accident.

Although a driver in the back is required to operate their vehicle attentively and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, they may not be solely liable for the wreck. For instance, a driver may have had brake lights that were not functioning correctly, causing the rear driver to not notice the front car was slowing down. If faulty car parts caused or contributed to a rear-end collision, the vehicle parts manufacturers may then be liable.

If the claimant is partially at fault for a crash, they may still be able to seek compensation for their damages. Under 42 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 7102, state law permits an injured individual to recover damages even if they were partly at fault. In this case, the amount of compensation will be diminished by the percentage of negligence by the plaintiff. A Norristown attorney knowledgeable in back-end car accidents could evaluate someone’s case to determine who is responsible.

Texting and Driving Accidents in Norristown

Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous acts of negligence a person can engage in and is one of the leading causes of car collisions. It is also why the state passed several laws banning people from sending phone messages while driving. Despite the attempts to prevent this, people continue to text and drive.

If you experience a wreck due to a distracted driver, you may want to enlist a diligent car accident attorney to fight for your rights. A lawyer experienced in texting while driving car accidents in Delaware County can evaluate your case and determine your potential courses of action.

Liability in Collisions When Someone Was on Their Phone

If a driver is found to be texting while operating their car at the time of the crash, it can have a severe impact on liability. The state has enacted several laws to prevent drivers from being on their cell phones and increased the potential penalties for those who still do so.

For instance, an at-fault driver found to be using a cell phone while driving may be subject to punitive, economic, and non-economic damages. A seasoned Norristown texting and driving wreck attorney can help obtain phone records and other documents that may prove that a driver was on their phone at the time of an accident.

If the claimant was also texting and operating their vehicle at the time of the crash, it may complicate their case and potentially limit or prevent their recovery. Under 42 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 7102, an injured person may still recover compensation if they are less than 50 percent responsible for a collision.

Contact KaplunMarx To Talk About Your Case

We take pride in setting ourselves apart from every single firm in Norristown. We are caring and truly want to help. At the same time, we are straight shooters as aggressive attorneys and we will tell you up front whether your case looks like it has a good chance or not. Even if we don't decide to represent you, you will be given the best options for moving forward after your accident.

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