Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer

Being involved in a car accident can be a scary event, especially when it can change your life in the blink of an eye. One minute, you’re driving to work or running errands, and the next, you’re drowning in medical bills, lost wages, and fighting tooth and nail with your insurance company. At Pagano Law, we know firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a car accident can take on your loved ones. This is why we strive to support those in Philadelphia in getting through the complex aftermath of an accident. 

Why Choose Pagano Law for Your Car Accident Case?

Throughout Philadelphia’s busy streets, from the tight corners of Old City through to the major intersections of Center City, car accidents occur with a frequency larger than we’d like. When they do, you want a legal team marrying local know-how with both experience and legal expertise. Here’s why Pagano Law is superior:

Deep Philly Roots: This isn’t just our base in Philly; we’re part of its fabric. We know every street, every neighborhood, and the exceptional challenges drivers face in our city.

Personal Attention: You are more than a case number at Pagano Law; take the time to understand your unique situation and customize the way we approach it.

Proven Track Record: Over the years, we have represented, and consequently helped, thousands of Philadelphia residents to receive their deserved compensation after car accidents.

No Fee Unless We Win: We believe in accessibility to justice. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis-you don’t pay unless we secure a settlement or verdict for you.

Full-service support: from negotiating with insurance companies to seeking medical treatment-we’ll walk you through every step of the recovery process.

Understanding Car Accidents in Philadelphia

The streets of Philadelphia can be a challenge to drive. From Society Hill’s narrow colonial-era streets to the high velocity on I-95, each presents its particular dangers. At Pagano Law, we’ve addressed cases that have included:

• Rear-end collisions on Broad Street
• T-bone accidents at busy Center City intersections
• Multi-car pileups on the Schuylkill Expressway
• Pedestrian accidents in residential neighborhoods
• Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft
• Commercial truck accidents on I-76

Whatever type of accident you have been involved in, Pagano Law has the experience and knowledge to effectively handle your case.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Philadelphia

First, you need to understand why your accident occurred; that is where the building block of a great case begins. Some common causes of accidents we see include the following:

Distracted driving: It’s one of the most common causes of an accident in recent times due to the surge in smartphone use. Whether it is sending texts, adjusting the GPS, or even eating while driving, all are disastrous.

Speeding: Besides narrow streets, Philadelphia has high-speed highways. The speeding is more dangerous due to this condition. Excessive speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of accidents.

Drunk Driving: Strict laws against drunk driving and a large number of awareness campaigns have little or no effect on driving behavior in Philadelphia. These motor vehicle accidents result in severe injury and deaths.

Aggressive Driving: From tailgating on the Schuylkill Expressway to running red lights in Center City, aggressive driving behaviors are putting everyone at risk.

Poor Road Conditions: Philadelphia’s harsh winters and busy streets can result in potholes, unclear lane markings, and other hazardous road conditions contributing to accidents.

Vehicle Defects: Sometimes, the fault is not that of a driver but of a vehicle manufacturer. Poorly made brakes or tires and other defective critical components can lead to severe accidents.

In detailed investigations at Pagano Law, we find out just what has caused your accident. This kind of attention to detail enables us to assemble the most robust case possible on behalf of the client.

Car Accidents: The Consequences Extend Beyond the Crash

When the attorneys at Pagano Law talk about car accidents, they aren’t referring to that initial collision of metal upon metal. They realize that the ripples from a car accident can spread right through everything in your life:

Physical Injuries

We can suffer a wide range of injuries in car accidents: everything from minor bruises to life-changing conditions. Among some of the most frequent ones are:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Cuts and lacerations

It is important to remember that even the most minor of wounds can be permanent. Therefore, at Pagano Law, we commonly work with medical professionals who are educated in the extent of your injuries and how it will affect you long-term.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Many believe that the trauma of the car accident ends when your physical bruises and cuts heal. However, many car accident victims have been known to experience:

• PTSD
• Anxiety to drive or ride in vehicles
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood swings and irritability

These psychological effects can be as disabling as physical injuries. At Pagano Law, we consider the emotional and psychological scarring from a car accident to be just as significant as the physical scarring. There is also the economic burden of a car accident. You might face: Growing medical bills The loss of income resulting from time away from work Car repair or replacement costs Higher insurance premiums Ongoing medical expenses for severe injuries

At Pagano Law, we are committed to helping you recover compensation for all of these and many more financial burdens. We understand that the true cost of an accident extends much further than the initial medical bills.

How Pagano Law Can Help You Through the Legal Process

When you hire Pagano Law to represent you after a car accident, you are not just hiring an attorney, you are hiring an advocate and guide through what can be a convoluted legal process. Here is what you can expect when you work with us:

Free Initial Consultation

A free, no-obligation consultation is your initial step in getting your case underway with Pagano Law. In this consultation, we will have the opportunity to:

• Hear your description of what happened
• Answer your questions about the legal process
• Preliminary assessment of your case

Description of how we can help you and what to anticipate in further process

This is your opportunity to learn about us, and see if we are the proper match for you. We have nothing to hide and will give you a straight-forward assessment of your case and, crucially, address its strengths and weaknesses.

Thorough Investigation

If you hire Pagano Law, we will begin a thorough investigation of your accident. This includes but is not limited to the following:

• Obtaining copies of the police report and witness statements
• Reviewing photos and videos of the scene
• Utilizing expert testimony of accident reconstruction experts
• Reviewing your medical records
• Interviews with expert witnesses

We try to build the best case for you. We leave no stone unturned in our search for evidence on your behalf.

Insurance Companies

One of the trickier parts of any car accident case involves dealing with the insurance companies. The bottom line is more important than you are to them, often times. At Pagano Law, we: 

• Handle all communications with insurance adjustors
• Aggressively negotiate a fair settlement 
• Protect you from tactics to minimize your claim
• Make sure you don’t accidentally say something that could harm your case

Our experience working with insurance companies has made us aware of their tactics and how to counter them.

Settlement Negotiations

Most car accident cases are settled through negotiation. The team at Pagano Law is well-experienced in handling these negotiations based on our vast knowledge of Philadelphia car accident law and our experience in handling similar cases. We will:

• Calculate the full value of your claim, including future expenses
• Push hard to maximize your compensation
• Counsel you on the reasonableness of each and every settlement offer
• Never strong arm you into accepting a woefully inadequate settlement

Our goal is always to negotiate a settlement that will provide you with the maximum amount possible, while allowing you to devote all your attention and energy to recuperation and rehabilitation free from financial anxiety.

Preparation for Trial and Trial Representation

Even though most cases do settle outside of court, Pagano Law is thoroughly equipped to take your case through trial. Our seasoned trial attorneys will :

• Develop aggressive trial strategy
• Prepare you for what to expect in court
• Present your case to a judge and jury in a persuasive matter
• Cross examine witnesses and develop strong arguments to defeat the defense
• Aggressively fight for your rights and damages

Oftentimes, our insurance companies know us as experienced trial attorneys. In fact, they often come out of their way to offer a reasonable settlement just so they wouldn’t have to be taken to court.

Understanding Pennsylvania Car Accident Laws

Dealing with the legal aspect of things after a car accident can be, quite confusingly dealt with. Here at Pagano Law, our lawyers can thereby help you comprehend your rights and options under Pennsylvania law. Following are some key points to remember:

Statute of Limitations

Generally speaking, in Pennsylvania you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury action. While this may be a very long period of time, it does in fact take some time to prepare a serious case. Therefore, for best results, it is highly recommended you contact Pagano Law immediately after your accident.

No-Fault Insurance

Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” state. This means that at the time that you buy auto insurance, you select either a “full tort” or “limited tort” option:2

Full Tort: If you select full tort, you retain the right to sue for all damages, including pain and suffering, no matter how slight your injuries.

Limited Tort: If you select limited tort, you give up your right to sue for non-economic damages unless you suffer a “serious injury” as defined by law.

At Pagano Law, we can help you understand your insurance coverage and its implications for your case.

Comparative Negligence

Pennsylvania is a “modified comparative negligence” state. What this means is that while one’s compensation may be reduced if partially at fault for the accident, if one is less than 51% at fault, one can recover in damages.

Knowing these laws is important in making sure you receive the most compensation. At Pagano Law, we strive to learn all the changes that take place regarding car accident law in Pennsylvania. This helps us to better represent you.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

At Pagano Law, we’re committed to pushing for complete and fair compensation. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to different types of damages, including but not limited to: Economic Damages These are the concrete ways in which you have already suffered financially due to the accident. Examples include the following: Past and future medical expenses, Lost wages, Loss of earning capacity, Property damage, Rehabilitation expenses, Home modi cations due to permanent injury, Non-Economic Damages

These damages are more subjective but no less important. They can include: Pain and suffering, Emotional distress Loss of enjoyment of life, Loss of consortium-the impacts on your relationships themselves Punitive Damages Where there is extreme negligence or even intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These are meant not to compensate you but to punish the at-fault party and hopefully prevent this from happening again.

At Pagano Law, we make certain that your claim is inclusive of all appropriate damages. We know the real cost of an accident goes far beyond immediate medical bills. We fight for compensation reflecting the full impact on your life.

Nearly 3 million people suffer injuries from auto accidents each year. Motor vehicle accident attorneys have repeatedly represented victims of automobile, truck and motorcycle accidents – and such collisions involving cyclists and pedestrians. Accidents can be caused by many different factors, such as:

• Improper, careless and reckless driving behavior
• Alcohol related accidents
• Vehicle defects due to either design or maintenance
• Poorly designed, constructed or maintained roadways

You may be entitled to compensation for a motor vehicle accident. Other car drivers, commercial truck drivers and their employers, car and parts manufacturers, establishments that sell liquor and state and local governments that design and maintain roadways may all be liable. We work tenaciously to help you get all the compensation to which you may be entitled – including compensation for pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical costs, lost income and future earnings.

When car accidents happen, the results can be disastrous – often fatal. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident you deserve to be compensated for your losses.
Car accidents occur for many reasons: speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving (including cell phone or radio use) and, of course, drunk driving. Regardless of how these crashes occur, millions of accidents result in injuries and fatalities.

Injuries vary depending on the type of accident. Neck and spine injuries, traumatic brain injury including concussion, broken bones and fractures, internal injuries, cuts and lacerations, and severe emotional distress are only some of the many types of injuries sustained in the following most common types of car accidents:

• Head-on Collisions
• Rear-end Collisions
• Side Collisions
• Accident with a motorcycle, tractor trailer, truck or bus
• Crashes at intersections
• Accidents caused by lane changes
• Collisions with pedestrians or bicyclists

Why It’s Important To Act Quickly

Immediately after an automotive accident, one may just be ready to get their life back to normal and cast all legal issues aside. However, taking immediate action to secure a lawyer can make quite a difference in the outcome of the case. Here is why:

Evidence Preservation: Critical evidence in an accident can disappear in the blink of an eye. Skid marks fade away, the memories of witnesses are no longer as clear, and surveillance footage gets erased. If you contact Pagano Law promptly, the preservation of such vital evidence can be arranged forthwith.

Statute of Limitations: As noted above, Pennsylvania has a two-year statute of limitations within which to bring a case of personal injury. Although that might seem like a long time, it certainly is not when you are trying to establish a good case. The sooner you contact us, the greater the time we have to prepare a strong case on your behalf.

Insurance Company Tactics: Often, insurance companies will attempt to contact an injured victim quickly in hopes of obtaining a statement or offering very low settlement prior to the victim being able to confer with a lawyer. By retaining Pagano Law early, we can help protect you from those tactics and ensure everything goes through our office.

Proper Documentation: From medical treatments to lost wages, everything about your accident and injuries should be documented. We can instruct you on what to keep track of from day one so nothing important is missed.

Peace of Mind: The aftermath of a car accident is never easy. By calling Pagano Law early on in the process, you can go about your recovery while we tackle all the legal details.

Remember, at Pagano Law, your consultation is free, and there is no risk to you in contacting us to learn about your options and how we can assist you.

Our Promise to You

At Pagano Law, a commitment to our clients means so much more than simple legal representation. We know you are facing some of the toughest times of your life, and we are here to guide you through every step. Here’s what you can expect when you choose Pagano Law:

Caring Assistance: We know that recovery does not stop with courtroom fights. Our staff is ready to listen and at least try to understand your issues and provide the needed emotional support throughout.

Clear Communications: Sometimes, “legalese” may confuse you. We promise to explain everything clearly in words you can understand. And we’re always available to answer your questions and update you on your case.

Personal Attention: Your case is unique, and we treat it as such. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we tailor our approach to your specific needs and circumstances.

Aggressive Advocacy: Whether we’re negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court, we fight tirelessly for your rights. We’re not afraid to stand up to big insurance companies or corporate defendants.

Holistic Approach: We understand that your requirements go well beyond legal representation. We can facilitate contacts with medical specialists, rehabilitation services, and other professional resources to assist you in recovery.

No Recovery, No Fee: We accept cases on a contingency fee basis, which simply means you do not pay us unless we recover compensation for you. That lets you get the justice you deserve without concern over up-front legal fees.

Local Knowledge: Since we are from Philadelphia, we have our roots in the community. We know how the local courts work, master the local laws, and have contacts that prove to be of positive consequence to your case.

All auto crashes are as different as the people who get hurt and the types of injuries they suffer. We will fight tirelessly to make sure you and your family get the financial damages you deserve. We are committed and we get results.

Other Types of Accident Cases We Handle

TRUCK ACCIDENTS: After we review the facts of your case with you, we will begin an in-depth investigation into the cause of your truck accident. Was the truck driver meeting all the regulatory requirements to maintain a CDL? Was it a matter of carelessness or inattention on the part of the truck driver? Was he sleep-deprived or under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, over the counter medications, or illegal substances? Was the semi tractor trailer itself properly maintained? Was the trucking company in full compliance with all safety regulations? Were the tires properly inflated and the brakes in optimal working order? Had proper pre-trips been performed and logged? How frequently was the engine checked and the parts serviced?
Finding the answers to such questions can be a challenge, but our experienced truck accident injury lawyers are familiar with the many variables, regulations, and potentially liable parties that create such a maze after a truck wreck. We will identify all responsible parties, and fight to maximize your compensation. We are committed to getting you results.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS: For motorcycle riders, the highways and backroads throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey represent freedom. Getting from here to there on your bike – whether commuting to work, doing errands or simply taking in the scenery is a feeling second to none. If you agree, you’re in good company with more than eight million other bikers in the United States.
However, when your ride is cut short due to another driver’s negligence, injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident can be life-altering, even fatal.

CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS: The construction industry employs about 8 percent of U.S. workers but has 22 percent of the fatalities—the largest number for any of the industry sectors. Each year thousands of American men and women are seriously injured in construction accidents. The injuries suffered by these hardworking people, such as paralysis or loss of limbs, cause workers to incur numerous hospital bills, doctors’ visits, surgeries and bills for medication. Many accidents are life-altering, leaving a victim unable to work or provide for loved ones. In a worst-case scenario there may also be a wrongful death.
Often there are multiple defendants (the property owner, the general contractor, various subcontractors, the developer, investors, lessors/lessees of the property, and the designers, including the engineers, architects and manufacturers), multiple insurance companies and multiple defense attorneys involved. Sometimes the owner, developer and general contractor are large and wealthy companies with sophisticated legal teams and insurance companies dedicated to avoiding liability. That is why it’s important to have an experienced construction accident lawyer on your side who can act quickly to make sure that your accident claim is reported correctly and that important evidence is preserved. If the accident is not reported appropriately, the accident site or equipment involved may not be properly preserved for investigation. If the important evidence is not preserved, you may be prevented from proving your construction accident claim.

DOG BITES: The owners of dogs are responsible for the safety of other people who come in contact with their pets. There is no such thing as “one free bite” for dogs in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Dog owners and others who handle dogs are responsible at all times for protecting others from being attacked by their animals. We have represented persons injured by dogs and we understand that many dog bites are not minor injuries. We know that they can lead to serious, disfiguring injury, permanent scars, multiple infections and emotional trauma.
Dog bites are always a possibility, wherever dogs of any breed interact with people or occupy the same territories. Even seemingly benign pets can surprise their owners by suddenly deciding to snap—and dogs who have never bitten before could end up mauling a child.
We urge you to discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney who can explain your legal options. Your homeowners’ insurance may compensate you for injuries caused by your own pets—you have paid for this protection. Likewise, friends and relatives may truly want you to make a claim against their homeowners insurance so you can get the help you need.
There is no reason for you to endure the trauma and pay for the expensive medical treatment (such as rabies shots, reconstructive surgery for facial scarring or disfigurement, or therapy post-traumatic stress disorder) after dog bite accident injury alone. The animal owner or handler responsible for your injuries should compensate you.

PREMISES LIABILITY: When a property owner is negligent in maintaining his or her premises – a home or apartment building, a parking lot or garage, a shopping center or mall, a supermarket or pharmacy, etc. – and someone gets hurt, the injuries can be severe. You may not be able to return to work. Your quality of life may be considerably reduced because you are unable to participate in the activities you love. And you may be in terrible pain and forced to endure ongoing medical treatments for your injuries.

Common Premises Liability Accidents include: Trip or Slip & Falls are incredibly common. These accidents can take place at commercial buildings (stores or offices), residences (private homes or rentals), or on public property (parks, streets, or public transportation). Premises can be dangerous for many reasons — faulty design, shoddy construction or building materials, poor maintenance, dangerous clutter, sidewalks in ill repair, inadequate lighting, slippery wet floors, uncleared ice and snow on walkways and parking lots, debris-strewn pathways, lack of a handrail on stairs, second stories or platforms, inadequate warning of a hazard and unsafe playground equipment. Dangerous premises can lead to slipping, falling, tripping, or having something hit you or fall on you.

Items Falling on You: In stores, especially in supermarkets and big-box stores where merchandise is often stacked high and precariously on shelves, items can fall on top of clients and cause serious head, neck and spinal injuries.

Take the First Step Towards Justice with Pagano Law

Injured in a car accident in Philadelphia? Let us not have you go down that hard road alone. At Pagano Law, let our seasoned professionals walk you through the process and litigate aggressively to secure your rightful compensation.

Please contact us today for a free consultation.

Keep in mind, timing is everything when it comes to a car accident. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we are in a position to build a strong case on your behalf.

There is no need to let a car accident disrupt your life. With Pagano Law by your side, this will give you the time to recover while we do all the legal work. Let us represent you. Let us be your support and way to justice.

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