If you have been injured in a car accident in Scranton, Pennsylvania, call The Slocum Firm today to schedule a free consultation. We can help you get fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Have you been injured in a car accident in Scranton, PA? Car accidents can be traumatic and life-altering events. If you’ve been involved in a crash that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.
Imagine the stress and uncertainty that follows a car accident. Medical bills pile up, lost wages mount and the physical and emotional pain can be overwhelming. It’s unfair to bear the burden alone when someone else’s negligence caused your injuries.
That’s where The Slocum Firm comes in. As experienced Scranton auto accident lawyers, we’re dedicated to helping injured victims like you recover the maximum compensation possible. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to fight for your rights.
Whether you’ve suffered minor or catastrophic injuries, our Scranton auto accident lawyers can help. We have a proven track record of successfully handling a wide range of cases, from simple to complex.
Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Contact The Slocum Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and fight to get you the justice you deserve.
Types of Car Accidents
Car accidents can happen in various ways, each with unique circumstances and consequences. Whether you’ve experienced a rear-end collision in downtown Scranton or a more severe head-on crash on the outskirts of Northeastern Pennsylvania, understanding these types of accidents can help you better navigate your car accident claim.
At The Slocum Firm, our experienced car accident attorneys are here to guide you through each step and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents we handle in Scranton. Picture this: you’re driving down Mulberry Street when suddenly, the car behind you fails to stop.
The impact from the other driver’s vehicle slams into your car’s rear bumper, potentially causing significant injuries such as whiplash or even more severe injuries requiring substantial medical treatment.
If this happens to you, you will need an attorney to represent your best interests. Our dedicated Scranton personal injury lawyers work tirelessly to hold the negligent driver accountable, ensuring you can recover financial compensation for accident injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the most severe motor vehicle accidents you can experience. Imagine driving along the roads in Scranton, only to have another driver veer into your lane, causing a catastrophic head-on crash.
These types of accidents often result in significant injuries, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or even fatalities. At The Slocum Firm, we understand the emotional and physical toll these accidents take on victims and their families.
Our experienced Scranton car accident lawyers are committed to helping you pursue compensation for your pain and suffering and future medical expenses through a personal injury lawsuit.
Side-Impact Collisions
Also known as T-bone accidents, side-impact collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the side of another. This type of car crash is common at busy intersections in Scranton, where distracted driving or running a red light can have a devastating impact.
The force of a side-impact collision can cause serious injuries, especially to those seated on the side of the vehicle that’s hit. If you’ve been involved in a side-impact crash, our team of Scranton car accident lawyers can help you seek compensation from the other driver’s insurance company, ensuring that your medical bills and property damage are fully covered.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Multi-vehicle accidents, or pile-ups, often occur on highways like I-81, where high speeds and congested traffic can quickly turn a minor fender-bender into a severe car accident involving multiple vehicles.
The complexity of these cases can be overwhelming, with numerous drivers and insurance companies involved. However, our experienced auto accident attorneys have a proven track record of handling car accident cases, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses, even when dealing with an uninsured motorist claim or other complications.
Hit and Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident is perhaps one of the most frustrating scenarios a driver can face. Picture driving home after a day at Nay Aug Park, only to be struck by another vehicle, and then the driver flees the scene.
This type of motor vehicle accident can leave you feeling helpless, especially when dealing with significant medical bills and property damage. At The Slocum Firm, our experienced car accident lawyers can assist you in filing a police report immediately and pursuing all available avenues for compensation, including your insurance claim or a personal injury claim against the negligent driver.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Scranton
At The Slocum Firm, we know that motor vehicle accidents can instantly change your life. Below, we break down some of the most frequent reasons for car crashes in our area and how we can assist you if you’ve been involved in a car or truck accident.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Scranton and across the country. Whether texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, taking your eyes off the road for a second can lead to a severe car accident.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is another significant cause of serious car accidents in Scranton. Despite strict Pennsylvania laws, some drivers still make the reckless decision to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. These drivers put everyone on the road at risk.
Speeding
Speeding is a common factor in many auto accidents in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In Scranton, where road conditions can vary significantly due to weather, speeding increases the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle, leading to a severe car accident.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving goes beyond speeding; it includes aggressive behaviors like tailgating, improper lane changes, and running red lights. Such actions often result in severe car crashes, leading to significant injuries or even fatalities.
Weather Conditions
Scranton is no stranger to harsh weather conditions, especially in winter. Snow, ice, and fog can make driving treacherous, leading to reportable traffic crashes. Unfortunately, not all drivers adjust their behavior to the conditions, resulting in auto accidents.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting or even permanent effects on the victims. Understanding the types of injuries commonly resulting from motor vehicle accidents is crucial for accident victims seeking compensation through legal channels.
Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in motor vehicle accidents. This injury occurs when the neck is jerked suddenly, causing damage to the muscles and ligaments. Despite being considered a “minor” injury by some, whiplash can lead to significant pain and suffering, sometimes requiring long-term medical care.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another frequent result of car accidents. These injuries can vary from minor fractures to severe breaks that require surgery. The medical bills for treating broken bones can quickly add up, leading to significant financial strain.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious injuries one can sustain in a car crash. TBIs can lead to catastrophic consequences, including permanent disability or even death.
In cases where a victim is fatally injured, our personal injury lawyers in Scranton, PA, can help you file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for your loss. Handling such car accident cases requires a law firm like The Slocum Firm with significant experience in dealing with catastrophic injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are life-altering and can result in partial or complete paralysis. The costs associated with spinal cord injuries can be astronomical, from immediate medical expenses to long-term care and future medical costs.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and contusions, seem less severe but can cause chronic pain and limit mobility. These injuries often require ongoing treatment, contributing to substantial medical bills.
Understanding Pennsylvania Car Accident Laws
As experienced Scranton car accident lawyers, we are here to help you understand the crucial aspects of car accident claims, ensuring you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
Comparative Negligence
Pennsylvania follows the comparative negligence rule, directly impacting how much you can recover in a car accident case. If you’re involved in a motor vehicle accident in Scranton, PA, the law requires determining each party’s fault. This is essential because your compensation can be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were in a car accident and were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. However, you may be barred from recovering compensation if you are more than 50% at fault. This makes it crucial to work with an experienced car accident attorney who can advocate on your behalf and ensure your level of fault is minimized.
Statute of Limitations
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a car accident is two years from the accident date. This means you have a limited time to pursue compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Waiting too long can result in losing your right to seek compensation, so contacting us immediately after your accident is vital. Our experienced auto accident attorneys will ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed appropriately to protect your claim.
Insurance Requirements
Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” state, which means drivers can choose between no-fault or traditional insurance coverage. If you opt for no-fault coverage, your insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to a specific limit, regardless of who was at fault. However, you can only sue the at-fault driver if your injuries meet a particular threshold.
For those with traditional insurance, you have the right to pursue compensation from the negligent driver of severe injuries and other damages. Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they try to minimize your payout. At The Slocum Firm, our Scranton car accident attorneys are skilled in handling car accident cases and negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for accident victims.
Legal Process of a Car Accident Claim in Scranton
At The Slocum Firm, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your car accident claim, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s a detailed look at the legal process for handling a car accident case in Scranton.
Initial Consultation
The first step in pursuing a car accident claim is the initial consultation with an experienced car accident attorney. At The Slocum Firm, we offer a free consultation where you can discuss the details of your accident with one of our Scranton auto accident lawyers.
During this meeting, we’ll assess the circumstances of your accident, including any accident injuries you’ve sustained, and review the police report. We will also discuss your medical bills, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you’ve experienced. This consultation helps us determine the strength of your claim and the best way to proceed.
Investigation
Our team will thoroughly investigate your car accident once you decide to proceed with your claim. This includes:
- Gathering Evidence: We will collect and review evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photographs.
- Medical Records: We’ll obtain medical expenses and treatment history records to understand the full extent of your physical and emotional injuries.
- Insurance Information: We will also review the details of the other driver’s insurance company and your policy to identify any potential uninsured motorist claims.
Our goal during the investigation is to build a strong case demonstrating the negligent driver’s liability and the accident’s impact on your life.
Filing a Claim
After the investigation, we will file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. This involves submitting a detailed account of the accident, including the police report, evidence of your serious injuries, and documentation of your medical bills and property damage.
We’ll ensure that the claim is comprehensive and accurate to support your request for maximum compensation.
Negotiation
Once the claim is filed, the insurance company may offer a settlement. However, these offers are often lower than you might be entitled to. Our dedicated injury lawyers will handle negotiations to ensure you receive a fair offer.
We’ll use our experience and knowledge of Scranton car accident cases to advocate for the compensation you deserve, including coverage for future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Trial
While not common, since most car accident cases settle before they get to the point of trial, we may need to take your case to trial if negotiations do not lead to a satisfactory settlement. At The Slocum Firm, we are prepared to represent you in court to protect your rights. We will present a compelling case to the judge and jury, demonstrating the extent of your serious injury and the impact on your life. We aim to secure a verdict that provides you with the financial compensation necessary to cover all aspects of your personal injury claim.
Throughout this process, we are here to support you every step of the way. Handling car accident cases requires a deep understanding of the legal system and the intricacies of personal injury law. As experienced car accident lawyers in Scranton, PA, we are dedicated to pursuing justice for car accident victims and ensuring that your car accident claim is managed effectively and efficiently.
Types of Compensation Available to Car Accident Victims in Scranton
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Scranton, PA, you might wonder what types of compensation you can pursue to cover the damages and losses you’ve suffered. At The Slocum Firm, we understand that navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming.
As experienced car accident attorneys, we are here to guide you through the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Here’s a breakdown of the types of compensation you may be entitled to:
Medical Expenses
One of the most significant aspects of a car accident claim is covering your medical expenses. Whether you have incurred substantial medical bills from emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, or ongoing treatment, these costs can quickly add up.
Our Scranton car accident lawyers will work diligently to ensure that all your medical expenses are accounted for, including:
- Emergency Room Visits: Immediate medical attention following a car crash.
- Hospital Stays and Surgeries: Costs associated with inpatient care and surgical procedures.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Ongoing treatments to help you recover from serious injuries.
- Future Medical Expenses: Projections for long-term medical care and treatments.
Lost Wages
Car accidents can disrupt your ability to work, leading to lost wages and financial strain. If your injuries prevent you from performing your job or require you to take time off, you may be eligible for compensation for:
- Immediate Lost Income: Wages lost due to your absence from work immediately following the accident.
- Future Lost Income: Potential earnings you might lose if your injuries impact your ability to work long-term or permanently.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to tangible losses, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This category of damages covers the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
It’s essential to document your pain and suffering with the help of your Scranton car accident lawyer, who will work to ensure that you receive compensation for:
- Physical Pain: Discomfort and suffering caused by injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Mental anguish, including anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Property Damage
If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for property damage. This includes:
- Repair Costs: Expenses to fix your damaged vehicle.
- Replacement Costs: What is the replacement cost if your car is totaled?
We will work with the insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your vehicle.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, you might be eligible for punitive damages designed to punish the at-fault driver for particularly egregious behavior, such as drunk driving or extreme negligence. Unlike other damages, punitive damages are not awarded in every car accident case but can be sought if the other driver’s behavior warrants such an award.
Benefits of Hiring a Scranton Car Accident Lawyer
The aftermath can be overwhelming when you’ve been involved in a car accident in Scranton, PA. From dealing with medical bills to navigating the insurance company and handling the emotional fallout, it’s a lot to manage on your own.
That’s where hiring a dedicated Scranton car accident lawyer, like those at The Slocum Firm, can make a significant difference. Engaging with an experienced auto accident attorney can incredibly benefit you.
Guidance Through Complex Legal Processes
After a car accident, you may need to deal with many legal and insurance-related tasks. Our experienced car accident attorney will guide you through these processes, ensuring you understand every step of your car accident case. We handle:
- Insurance Claims: Negotiating with the insurance company can be challenging, especially if they are pushing back on your claim. Our lawyers are adept at handling insurance claims and will work tirelessly to secure fair compensation for you.
- Personal Injury Lawsuits: We will represent you in a personal injury lawsuit if necessary. This involves preparing legal documents, filing court papers, and advocating on your behalf in the courtroom.
- Police Reports: We’ll help you obtain and interpret police reports, which are crucial in proving fault and understanding the details of the car crash.
Maximizing Your Compensation
One of the primary benefits of hiring a Scranton car accident lawyer is our ability to help you recover the maximum financial compensation for your injuries and losses. This includes:
- Medical Bills: Serious injuries from auto accidents often lead to significant medical expenses. We ensure that all your current and future medical costs are considered in your car accident claim.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you should be compensated for your lost wages. We’ll calculate your lost income and include it in your claim.
- Pain and Suffering: Beyond tangible losses, you may be entitled to compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering. Our experienced car accident attorneys will work to ensure these damages are adequately addressed.
Handling Insurance Company Tactics
Dealing with the insurance company can be one of the most challenging aspects of a car accident case. Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize their payouts. With The Slocum Firm on your side, you benefit from:
- Negotiation Skills: We have the experience to negotiate effectively with the insurance company, ensuring you receive a fair settlement rather than a lowball offer.
- Knowledge of Pennsylvania Law: Understanding local and state laws, including those in Lackawanna County, is crucial. We are well-versed in Pennsylvania law and how it affects your car accident claim.
Personalized Attention and Support
At The Slocum Firm, we pride ourselves on providing personalized, compassionate support to each client. We offer:
- Free Consultation: We provide a free case evaluation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action without your financial obligation.
- Contingency Fee Basis: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This ensures that our interests are aligned with yours—we’re dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights
Navigating the aftermath of a severe car accident can be daunting. By hiring a local Scranton car accident lawyer from our firm, you ensure that your rights are protected and that you have a dedicated advocate fighting for your interests.
Whether you’re dealing with the other driver’s insurance company or facing a complex personal injury case, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Common Defenses Used by Defendants in a Car Accident Case
When dealing with a car accident case in Scranton, PA, you might encounter various defenses from the other party. Understanding these common defenses can help you navigate your car accident lawsuit more effectively.
Claiming the Other Driver Was At Fault
One common defense is arguing that the other driver caused the accident, not the defendant. They might suggest that the driver’s insurance company or the at-fault driver’s actions were primarily responsible for the car crash.
It’s crucial to have a skilled Scranton car accident lawyer who can gather evidence and present a solid case to counteract these claims.
Denying the Severity of Injuries
Another defense often used is minimizing the seriousness of your injuries. The defendant might argue that your medical bills and severe injury claims are exaggerated. This is why having an experienced car accident attorney from The Slocum Firm is essential.
We will work with medical experts to document your physical and emotional injuries accurately, ensuring that your personal injury claim reflects the true extent of your suffering.
Contributing Negligence
Defendants may claim that you were partially at fault for the accident. This is known as contributory negligence. They might argue that distracted driving or failing to follow traffic laws on your part contributed to the crash.
Our dedicated injury lawyers will help to gather and present evidence, such as police reports and eyewitness accounts, to refute these claims.
Disputing Property Damage or Medical Expenses
Defendants sometimes dispute the amount of property damage or the validity of medical expenses. They may argue that your lost wages and future medical costs are inflated.
We will ensure that all damages are thoroughly documented and justified, working to secure maximum compensation for your car accident case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Scranton, PA, it’s essential to take several steps to protect your rights and ensure your safety:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Police: Report the accident and get a police report, which is crucial for your car accident case.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact and insurance information from the other driver.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform them about the accident, but be cautious about what you say to avoid compromising your claim.
- Consult an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer: Reach out to The Slocum Firm for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Scranton?
In Scranton, PA, you generally have two years from the car accident date to file a personal injury claim or car accident lawsuit. This deadline is crucial, so it’s essential to act promptly. Contact our dedicated injury lawyers at The Slocum Firm to ensure you meet all deadlines and secure maximum compensation.
What If the Other Driver is Uninsured?
If the other driver is uninsured, you can still pursue compensation through your insurance policy or an uninsured motorist claim. An experienced auto accident attorney from our Scranton office can help you navigate this process and fight for fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
How Much is My Case Worth?
The value of your car accident case depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our experienced car accident attorneys will evaluate your situation and work to secure fair compensation for your physical and emotional injuries.
Do I Need to Go to Court?
Not all car accident cases require a court appearance. Many settle out of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, our skilled Scranton car accident lawyers are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Scranton
At The Slocum Firm, we understand the complexities of car accident cases and the challenges that car accident victims face. Whether you are dealing with significant injuries, mounting medical expenses, or an uncooperative insurance company, our Scranton auto accident lawyers help you navigate your personal injury claim.
Call 570-209-7376 today for a free case evaluation, and let our experienced auto accident attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve.
