Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Accident Legal Services
GLS Injury Law represents victims of all types of motor vehicle accidents throughout Pennsylvania. Our attorneys understand the complex insurance regulations, traffic laws, and litigation strategies necessary to win these cases and secure maximum compensation for our clients.
Types of Motor Vehicle Accident Cases We Handle
Car Accidents
Car accidents can range from minor fender-benders to catastrophic multi-vehicle collisions. Common causes include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, following too closely, failure to yield, running red lights or stop signs, and unsafe lane changes. Whether your accident was caused by another driver's negligence or a defective vehicle, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case and fight to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Truck Accidents
Accidents involving commercial trucks and tractor-trailers often result in catastrophic injuries due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles. Truck accident cases are particularly complex because they may involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance companies, and vehicle manufacturers. Our lawyers understand federal trucking regulations and have the resources to take on large trucking companies and their insurers. Learn more about our commercial vehicle accident services.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. Even a minor collision can result in serious or fatal injuries. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include cars making left turns in front of motorcycles, lane splitting incidents, vehicles changing lanes without checking blind spots, road hazards (potholes, debris, uneven pavement), and dooring incidents. We fight to overcome the bias that some insurance companies and jurors have against motorcycle riders.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer severe injuries, as they have no protection from the impact. Common scenarios include crosswalk accidents, parking lot accidents, sidewalk accidents, hit-and-run incidents, and accidents in school zones. Pennsylvania law gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks, but drivers frequently fail to yield. Our attorneys will work to establish driver negligence and recover full compensation for your injuries.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries including head trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and road rash. Common causes include drivers failing to see cyclists, dooring accidents, right hook collisions, left cross collisions, and accidents caused by road defects. Pennsylvania law gives cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators. We'll protect your rights and fight for fair compensation.
Uber and Lyft Accidents
Rideshare accidents involve complex insurance issues, as coverage may depend on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or transporting a passenger. Our attorneys understand how Uber and Lyft insurance policies work and will navigate the claims process to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents in Pennsylvania are caused by various forms of negligence, including:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone calls, eating, adjusting controls, or other distractions
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for conditions
- Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving, road rage, or willful disregard for safety
- Fatigued Driving: Driving while drowsy or overtired
- Weather Conditions: Failing to adjust driving for rain, snow, ice, or fog
- Running Red Lights/Stop Signs: Failure to obey traffic control devices
- Improper Lane Changes: Unsafe merging or lane switching
- Following Too Closely: Tailgating that prevents safe stopping
- Mechanical Failures: Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other defects
Injuries Commonly Seen in Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Neck and back injuries (whiplash, herniated discs)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Burns and scarring
- Soft tissue injuries
- Cuts, lacerations, and bruising
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)
- Wrongful death
What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident
The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here's what you should do:
At the Scene
- Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone is safe and call 911 if anyone is injured
- Call Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement
- Exchange Information: Get the other driver's name, contact info, insurance, and license plate
- Document Everything: Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and the scene
- Get Witness Information: Collect names and contact info from any witnesses
- Don't Admit Fault: Avoid making statements that could be construed as accepting blame
- Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated by a doctor even if you feel okay
After Leaving the Scene
- Report to Your Insurance: Notify your insurer, but be careful about giving recorded statements
- Keep All Documentation: Medical records, bills, repair estimates, police reports
- Follow Medical Advice: Attend all appointments and follow your doctor's treatment plan
- Contact an Attorney: Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer before settling
- Avoid Social Media: Don't post about the accident or your injuries online
Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Accident Laws
Full Tort vs. Limited Tort
Pennsylvania drivers can choose between "full tort" and "limited tort" insurance options. Limited tort policyholders generally cannot sue for pain and suffering unless their injuries meet certain thresholds. Full tort policyholders have unrestricted rights to sue for all damages. Our attorneys will review your policy and maximize your available compensation.
Comparative Negligence
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Statute of Limitations
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania. However, certain circumstances can shorten or extend this deadline, so it's important to consult with an attorney promptly.
Compensation Available in Motor Vehicle Accident Cases
Our motor vehicle accident lawyers fight to recover full compensation for all your losses, including:
Economic Damages
- Past and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Cost of household services you can no longer perform
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
- Permanent disability or impairment
Why Choose GLS Injury Law?
Experience with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize payouts. We have decades of experience negotiating with insurance companies and know their tactics. We won't let them take advantage of you.
Thorough Investigation
We conduct comprehensive investigations of every accident, including reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, consulting accident reconstruction experts, examining vehicle damage, and analyzing medical records. This thorough approach helps us build the strongest possible case.
No Fee Unless You Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees.
Trial-Ready Attorneys
While most cases settle, we're always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Insurance companies know we're not afraid of the courtroom, which often leads to better settlement offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
You may still have options for compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys will explore all available insurance policies and sources of recovery.
How much is my motor vehicle accident case worth?
Case value depends on many factors including injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, degree of fault, available insurance coverage, and impact on your life. We provide personalized case evaluations during free consultations.
Should I accept the insurance company's settlement offer?
Insurance companies often make low initial offers hoping you'll accept quickly before understanding the full extent of your injuries and losses. Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney first.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Pennsylvania's comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Contact Our Lancaster Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Today
If you've been injured in a motor vehicle accident, don't wait to seek legal help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and Pennsylvania law imposes strict deadlines for filing claims. Contact GLS Injury Law today for a free consultation.
Call (717) 394-3004 now or contact us online. We're available 24/7 to help you.