There are more cars, trucks, and buses on the road now than ever before. With so many vehicles—and so many drivers—automobile accidents are inevitable. When one considers the relative size and speed of vehicles on the road today, it is not surprising that automobile accidents are a major cause of property damage and personal injury. In fact, they make up the majority of personal injury claims in the United States.
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Family of Lawyers at Munley, Munley, & Cartwright, P.C., can offer you the knowledge and experience that is critical in preparing and successfully resolving your personal injury claim.
One of the first things to be considered is the cause of the accident. Common causes include: negligence, recklessness, or impairment on the part of a driver; dangerous or substandard road conditions; and defects in the automobile itself. In determining whether there is a basis for a lawsuit, one of the primary considerations is the concept of negligence. Drivers are responsible for using reasonable care in operating a vehicle. Failure to exercise reasonable care may constitute an act of negligence.
One basis for negligence is failure to obey the laws of the road. That usually involves one or more of the following: driving at a speed above the posted limit, driving at a speed unreasonable for the conditions, failing to obey traffic signals, and driving while distracted. The latter has gained increased attention in recent years, leading some states to enact laws that restrict the use of “distracters” while driving, such as cell phones.
Another common cause of personal injury accidents is driving while impaired. Impairment may be physical or mental (affected judgment). It may result from the use of drugs or alcohol (DUI, or driving under the influence, is a criminal offense), fatigue, or health conditions (such as diminished eyesight or ability to react quickly).
In some cases, negligence stems not from another driver but from a factor outside any driver’s control. Poorly maintained roads, improperly marked construction zones and malfunctioning traffic signals may constitute negligence on the part of state or local governments. Defective parts or auto repair work may make an automaker or mechanic liable for an accident.
As with all accidents involving personal injury, the severity of injuries and their long-term effects can vary greatly. In the case of automobile accidents, injuries may include whiplash, broken bones, burns, internal injuries, and even death. Anyone who has been in an automobile accident should be thoroughly examined by a medical professional as soon after the accident as possible. What at first appears to be a minor injury can mask undetected internal injuries and other major health concerns.
Based on the severity of the accident and the circumstances surrounding its cause, damages may include compensation for:
- Property damage (such as automobile repairs)
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Loss of current and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Wrongful death
The insurance company of the party who is at fault is responsible for paying the victim’s damages that resulted from the accident. An important thing to consider when you have been involved in an automobile accident is that insurance companies are businesses with vested interests in paying as little on any claims as possible. This is why it is always in a victim’s best interests to discuss the situation with a lawyer before accepting an offer from an insurance company. An attorney that works for you will put your needs before the insurance company’s monetary interests. The Family of Lawyers at Munley, Munley, & Cartwright, P.C., is familiar with the many ways in which insurance companies may try to get you to settle quickly and for less compensation than you deserve. We have years of experience dealing with insurance companies and handling accident claims.
At Munley, Munley, & Cartwright, P.C., our goal is to provide exceptional legal services to our clients. We strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence for the protection of individual rights through teamwork and the use of our considerable resources and experience. Whether we are gathering evidence, giving advice, or talking with insurance companies, we are always your representative.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to an automobile accident, you should seek the advice of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected. Please call Munley, Munley, & Cartwright, P.C., at 1-800-318-LAW1 or fill out our online form for a free assessment of your case. Due to legal deadlines for filing injury claims, it is critical that you seek legal counsel as soon as possible after your accident.
