The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation Quickly
Once the initial shock wears off, injured parties should work to find a side-impact car crash attorney quickly. Many different factors can influence the legitimacy of a car accident injury claim, so it could take several months or longer to build a strong case.
As with many types of injury cases, evidence can disappear quickly in a car crash case. Consulting a Lancaster attorney immediately after the side-impact collision could allow an individual to:
- Begin collecting witness statements when the details are fresh in the witnesses’ minds
- See the damage done to the vehicles involved before they are repaired or replaced
- Find any indicators of the cause of the accident left at the crash site
How Long After a Car Accident Can an Injured Person File a Lawsuit?
People injured in side-impact car crashes in Lancaster have two years to file a lawsuit for both their injuries and property damage. To minimize potential delays and complications with their case, one should file a claim as close to the date of their accident as possible.
It is especially important for those with life-threatening injuries to seek compensation sooner than later. Doing so can enable an attorney to start on the case quickly. It could help a legal professional expedite the process and increase the chances of settling before the injured party’s condition worsens.
How Much Is a Side-Impact Car Accident Claim Worth?
The amount of compensation that someone harmed in a side-impact car crash could receive varies depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Common determining factors include:
- Type and severity of injury sustained
- Number of vehicles involved
- Medical treatment required
- Type and severity of property damage (if applicable)
- Other expenses resulting from the accident
A side-impact car accident attorney in Lancaster can use these factors to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company.
Finding Success in a Lancaster Side-Impact Car Accident Lawsuit
In many instances, both parties can settle a car accident case without ever going to litigation. A seasoned lawyer with enough evidence should be able to make a compelling argument for the plaintiff. Most insurance companies do not want the case to go to trial, so they are often willing to work with the plaintiff’s legal representative to settle the case quickly.
Who Is Responsible for Car Crash Damages in Lancaster?
Most states are “fault” states, meaning they require at-fault drivers’ insurance companies to pay for damages that result from car accidents. However, there are a few “no-fault” states in which victims’ insurance companies are responsible for recovering damages.
Pennsylvania is unique in that drivers have the option to choose no-fault or fault insurance. The type that a driver chooses will determine which party’s insurance company pays for damages after a side-impact car accident.
A Lancaster Lawyer Is Ready to Represent Side-Impact Car Crash Victims
After a serious motor vehicle crash, the road to recovery may be long, but you do not have to go it alone. A Lancaster side-impact car accident lawyer could assist you with filing a claim and help you fight for the compensation you are owed. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more.