Should You Always Call a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
No one gets behind the wheel expecting to get into a car accident. This can make it difficult to understand the legal steps involved after a crash occurs and whether hiring an attorney is necessary. Speaking with our Reading car accident attorneys at Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. can help you understand your options and protect your ability to pursue compensation.
When You Should Consider Calling a Car Accident Lawyer
You are not required to contact a lawyer after every accident. However, having experienced legal support can be vital. At Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C., our attorneys help injured clients understand their rights. We offer strong legal advocacy during every stage of your case so you can focus on your physical recovery.
Some accident victims hesitate to seek legal help because they believe their injuries are not severe enough or that the insurance process will be simple. Unfortunately, injuries can become more serious over time or fault may be contested, and insurance companies may not always provide the support victims need.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule under 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 7102. This means that an injured person’s compensation may be reduced based on their percentage of fault. If someone is found to be more than 50% responsible for causing their injuries, they generally cannot recover compensation.
Because fault decisions can significantly affect a claim, working with our legal team can help protect your interests, such as situations where:
- You suffered injuries that require medical treatment or ongoing care
- The insurance company denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement
- The other driver disputes responsibility for the accident
- Multiple parties were involved in the crash
- Your accident resulted in significant property damage
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
The actions you take after a crash can affect your ability to protect your health and pursue a claim. If you are able to do so safely, there are several important steps you should consider taking after an accident:
- Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if symptoms do not appear immediately
- Report the accident to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report
- Take photos of the vehicles, accident scene, road conditions, and visible injuries
- Collect contact and insurance information from the other drivers involved
- Avoid statements that could be used to minimize your injuries or assign fault
- Contact Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. to discuss your unique situation
You should also keep records related to your accident, including medical bills, treatment information, repair estimates, and communication with insurance companies.
Our Reading Car Accident Attorneys Are Prepared to Advocate for You
If you were injured in a crash, you do not have to handle the legal process alone. Our car accident lawyers in Reading are prepared to help you seek the compensation you may deserve and address the challenges that can arise after an accident. Contact Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. today online or by calling 570-622-2455 to learn how we can assist you.