Roads in Pennsylvania are full of people driving every day. Most people usually do their best to drive safely and with caution. Unfortunately, with so many vehicles sharing the road, accidents can happen while driving. While some accidents may lead to only minor injuries, other times accidents can be disastrous and cause someone to become seriously injured. Individuals hurt in automobile accidents often face great physical, financial, and emotional hardship.
Types of Accidents
Because so many types of vehicles share the road, there are different types of automobile accidents that may occur. Some examples of automobile accidents may consist of:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck accidents
- Mass transit accidents
- Uber/Lyft accidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Injured passengers
Causes of Accidents
Unfortunately, not all drivers are fully aware and give their undivided attention to the road. Accidents may sometimes be a result of outside influences or an individual’s poor driving decisions. Some dangerous factors that may lead to accidents include:
- Texting while driving
- Using other electronic devices while driving
- Disregarding traffic signs/signals
- Drunk/drugged driving
- Excessive speeding/reckless driving
- Driving distracted
- Driving tired
What to Do After an Accident
After a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention for any injuries sustained. It is also important to stay at the scene of the accident and contact the police. If possible, pictures should be taken of the vehicles in the crash before they are moved. When the authorities arrive on the scene, they will conduct a police report of the accident.
Burden of Proof
When an injured party in an automobile accident wants to hold another party responsible for their accident, they are required to provide what is called the “burden of proof.” The burden of proof involves the injured to collect any evidence of negligence against the other party. In order to find someone negligent, it must be proved that the accident and the injuries sustained were caused directly by the neglect of the other party. Evidence may consist of a police report, medical documentation of the injuries, pictures/videos of the scene, and any witnesses.
Personal Injury Protection
It is important to know that in Pennsylvania, drivers have a choice to participate in no-fault insurance. This is known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP). The protection covers any immediate medical expenses and wages that are covered, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Individuals who do not participate in no-fault insurance may wish to hold the negligent party responsible for any medical bills and lost wages.
Contact our Firm
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a car accident and seek legal representation, contact Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C. today.
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.