Philadelphia Rear End Collision Lawyer
Leading Rear End Collision Lawyer In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia sees a high number of severe serious car accidents and motor vehicle accidents each year. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision, the aftermath can feel overwhelming.
Attorney John Mattiacci understands the challenges in your rear-end car accident case. He has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of his clients and will work hard to help you obtain the compensation that you deserve for your losses.
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end accident, reach out to our team for a free consultation with a Philadelphia car accident lawyer. Our compassionate team is available 24/7 to take your call. Contact our Philadelphia office at 856.830.6844 or call toll-free at 866-617-0050.
Our Rear End Collision Attorneys In Philadelphia Are Here To Help
The seasoned legal professionals of Mattiacci Law have over seventeen years of experience representing victims of rear-end collisions. Whether the accident was caused by slippery road conditions, pot holes, sun glare, traveling too fast for conditions, or simply distracted driving, if you have been injured due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
No-Fee Policy
We believe that quality legal representation should be accessible to all, regardless of financial status. Our no-fee policy means you owe us nothing unless we win your case. This model allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront costs.
Free Consultation
During your free consultation, our team offers a confidential space to discuss your case. We’ll outline potential strategies and answer any questions, ensuring you’re fully informed every step of the way.
Proven Results
Our track record speaks volumes, with significant settlements and verdicts across a range of personal injury claims and car accident cases. Our dedication to justice has helped countless Philadelphia residents recover from their losses and move forward.
Understanding Your Rights After A Rear End Collision In Philadelphia
In Philadelphia, individuals involved in an auto accident have specific rights protected by Pennsylvania law. These laws are designed to ensure that victims can seek fair compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. One critical aspect of these laws is the concept of comparative negligence.
This rule allows for compensation to be adjusted based on each party’s degree of fault in the accident. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by that same percentage. It’s vital to grasp how this principle applies to your case, as it can significantly impact the amount you’re eligible to recover. Understanding these nuances can empower you to make informed decisions throughout your car accident claim process.
How to Protect and Maximize Your Claim Following a Rear End Collision in Philadelphia
To safeguard and strengthen your car accident claim in Philadelphia, certain immediate actions are crucial. Firstly, documenting the accident scene comprehensively can provide valuable evidence for your claim, especially if the accident was due to someone else’s negligence. This includes taking photos of the damage, collecting witness information, and securing a copy of the police report itself.
Equally important is seeking prompt medical attention. Not only does this ensure your health is prioritized, but it also results in the creation of medical records that serve as crucial evidence for your injuries. Furthermore, follow-up appointments and adherence to treatment plans are key in demonstrating the severity and ongoing impact of your injuries. Thorough medical documentation is indispensable as it substantiates your claim for compensation, making it harder for insurance companies to downplay your injuries and the associated costs.
Philadelphia's Laws On Rear End Collision Claims
A deep dive into Pennsylvania’s personal injury law governing car accident claims reveals a complex system designed to ensure car accident victims are fairly compensated while also considering the circumstances of each incident. The statute of limitations is a law that establishes a deadline in which you must file a car accident lawsuit. The time period is two years from the date of the accident. This time limit underscores the importance of acting swiftly to preserve your legal rights.
Furthermore, the state’s comparative negligence law plays a pivotal role in determining compensation. It assesses the fault of all parties involved, adjusting the recoverable damages accordingly. This system aims to allocate financial responsibility in proportion to each party’s contribution to the accident, influencing both the strategy for presenting your case and the potential compensation you can receive. Understanding these laws is paramount for anyone pursuing a car accident claim in Philadelphia, as it impacts every facet of the legal process, from filing a claim to the negotiation of settlements.
Who Is Liable in a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle hits another from behind. As a general rule, drivers are responsible for being aware of when the cars in front of them slow down or stop and must respond accordingly. When they fail to do so, they are usually liable for a rear-end accident.
In Pennsylvania, you can still recover even if you share some responsibility for an accident. Under the rule of comparative negligence, as long as the other driver is found to be more at fault than you are, you can still be compensated for your losses.
If a case involves an issue of comparative negligence, a jury will assign fault for damages among the parties in a lawsuit. Each party will be assigned a percentage of the fault. As long as your fault was less than the other driver’s, you will be able to recover damages. However, your total recovery will be reduced by the percentage that you were at fault.
An example of this is that a driver’s car is hit by a truck. A jury finds that the truck is 70% responsible for the accident and the injured driver is 30% responsible for the collision. The jury awards damages of $100,000. The injured driver can recovery $70,000, because his recovery is reduced by the 30% of fault attributed to him by the jury.
How Pennsylvania Law Impacts Rear-End Collision Cases
While they may seem simple, rear-end collision cases can be complicated. A number of laws may affect these cases. Your attorney should understand these statutes and regulations and how they apply to your case.
The “Assured Clear Distance Rule” is a legal rule in Pennsylvania. The rule generally means that a driver should drive at a speed that will allow the driver to stop his car before striking a car or object in front of that driver. In other words, if a driver is following a car in traffic, the driver should drive at a speed that will allow him or her to stop in time before hitting a vehicle or object in front of them.
Pennsylvania also has rules relating to signaling turns. While most of us probably do not remember the specifics of these rules from Driver’s Ed classes, they may be important in a rear-end collision case. Generally, all drivers must use appropriate signals when switching traffic lanes, entering traffic streams and turning.
More specifically, when drivers are traveling at rates of less than 35 miles per hour, a turn signal must be put on continuously at least 100 feet before making a turn. If a driver is going 35 miles an hour or greater, then the turn signal must be continuously on for at least 300 feet before making a turn.
These rules can help to prove that a driver was at fault in a rear-end collision. For example, if a car is following too closely behind you, an experienced attorney can use the driver’s violation of the Assured Clear Distance Rule to demonstrate that he or she was negligent. This can help prove your case — and get you the compensation that you deserve for your injuries.
Common Causes and Rear End Collisions Statistics In Phildelphia
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions are the most common type of accident in the United States, accounting for approximately 40% of all crashes in the U.S. each year. Across the country, a rear-end collision happens every 8 seconds.
In Pennsylvania, rear-end collisions are also far too common, occurring once every 19 minutes. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reports that in 2017, 27,762 rear-end accidents happened in the state. This represents 22.5% of all motor vehicle accidents in Pennsylvania, and puts rear-end collisions as the third most-common type of crash in the state.
In a rear-end car crash, the drivers and occupants of both vehicles may be injured. However, the passengers in the front car usually don’t have time to brace for the impact, and so they usually sustain more serious injuries. These serious injuries may include whiplash, head injuries, face injuries and other spinal cord and neck injuries.
One primary reason for rear-end collisions is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted behind the wheel may not have enough time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic. Additionally, excessive speed can be a contributing factor. When drivers are traveling at high speeds, it becomes more difficult to stop quickly, increasing the risk of rear-ending another vehicle.
Finally, tailgating is another common cause of rear-end collisions. When drivers follow too closely behind other vehicles, they may not have enough time to stop safely if the lead vehicle suddenly brakes or changes lanes. This is especially dangerous in congested traffic or on wet or icy roads.
Insurance Claims and Settlements for Rear End Collisions in Philadelphia
The aftermath of a car accident in Philadelphia involves more than just recovery from injuries; dealing with insurance claims is a critical component of the process. Effective communication with insurance companies is essential. However, without legal knowledge, securing fair treatment can be challenging. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, often leaving victims with less than they need to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
This is where legal advice becomes invaluable. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer or personal injury attorney specializes in advocating for victims’ rights, using their expertise to ensure insurance companies offer fair settlements. Lawyers are adept at deciphering policy language, valuing claims accurately, and negotiating with insurers to reflect the true cost of an accident. The benefits of legal support include not just financial gains but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing an experienced advocate is on your side.
Expert Philadelphia Rear End Collision Attorneys In PA
Securing the services of a specialized Philadelphia personal injury lawyer can dramatically affect the outcome of your case. Such lawyers bring a wealth of experience, not just in law, but in handling the unique challenges of car accident claims. They offer personalized service, understanding the nuances of each case and tailoring their approach to meet individual needs. Their commitment is not just to legal success but to securing just compensation that truly reflects the losses and suffering of their clients.
From the initial consultation through to the conclusion of your case, a dedicated lawyer will guide you through each step, providing clarity and support. Whether it’s gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, or presenting your case in court, their expertise is your advantage. The goal is always to fight for the maximum compensation possible, covering medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. With such focused support, victims can concentrate on recovery, confident in their legal representation’s commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.
Why Our Rear End Collision Law Firm In Philadelphia Is The Right Choice For You
Mattiacci Law’s local expertise, dedication to the community, and proven success in car accident cases set us apart. As Philadelphia personal injury lawyers, we’re committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Talk to a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Today If you’ve been involved in a serious car accident, don’t wait to seek legal support. Contact Mattiacci Law today for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.
Speak To A Skilled Philadelphia Rear-End Collision Lawyer Today
It takes knowledge, skill, and tenacity to handle rear-end collision cases in Philadelphia. There is no substitute for experience. Our Philadelphia personal injury law firm has handled rear-end collision cases in Philadelphia for nearly twenty years. When you need help you can rely upon the team at Mattiacci Law to fight for you.
Our rear-end collision lawyers stand ready to answer your questions. We are here to help. Contact our firm now for a free consultation. The initial consultation is completely free. Call us now at 267-214-5034 or call toll free at 866-617-0050.
FAQ's About Philadelphia Rear End Collisions
We strive to file a personal injury claim against anyone responsible for the collision, including drivers, passengers, or entities whose negligence contributed to the accident. If their actions were negligent and caused your injuries and damages, we’ll pursue a claim for compensation.
Philadelphia personal injury cases occur when someone acts (or fails to act) in a way a reasonably careful person wouldn’t under similar circumstances. We assess negligence by comparing actions to safety rules, often outlined in the Pennsylvania Statutes Annotated Title 39. If a driver violates these rules and causes your injuries, we’ll pursue a claim against them.
Our Philadelphia personal injury attorney meticulously investigates each case, gathering evidence like police reports, photos, witness statements, vehicle data, and more. Your information is crucial, so we work closely with clients to understand the accident details. Swift action is vital to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
We’ll identify and include all negligent drivers in the lawsuit. We may reach settlements with one or more drivers, or if the case goes to trial, a jury will apportion fault among them. Our goal is to recover damages from everyone responsible, maximizing your compensation.
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the accident date. However, exceptions exist, like cases involving minors or government entities. Contact us immediately after an accident to ensure your rights are protected and deadlines are met.
Initially, your car insurance Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers medical bills, followed by your health insurance if PIP limits are exhausted. We assist with PIP claims and pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover remaining bills and future medical needs.
We pursue both economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, expenses) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring, loss of consortium) to ensure you receive full compensation for your losses.
Each auto accident case is unique, and its value depends on factors like liability, injury severity, medical treatment, insurance coverage, and more. Our experienced car accident attorneys thoroughly analyze your case to determine its potential value and fight for maximum compensation.
Limited tort insurance restricts your right to sue for non-economic damages unless you suffer a “serious injury.” We can help determine if your injuries meet this threshold. Choosing full tort coverage, while potentially more expensive, ensures your right to sue for all damages.
UM/UIM coverage protects you if the at-fault driver has no or insufficient insurance. It’s crucial to have adequate UM/UIM coverage and understand your options, like stacking benefits if you have multiple vehicles.
Prioritize safety, seek medical attention, and report the accident to the police. Then, consult with a Philadelphia car accident lawyer to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
It’s advisable to consult a lawyer before speaking to the insurance company. We can handle communication, negotiate on your behalf, and protect you from potentially harmful statements that could jeopardize your claim.
Recent Philadelphia Rear-End Collision Blogs
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In most cases, the driver involved in a Left-Turn Collision in New Jersey is considered at fault. This is because New Jersey traffic law requires left-turning drivers to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic. However, there are exceptions where the oncoming driver might be liable, such as speeding, running a red light, or distracted driving. Determining […]
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