Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney

When an errant driver does something unexpected, other motorists must react quickly to avoid a collision. When a crash happens, injuries and property damage can cause tremendous stress and anxiety. It’s important to work with an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer who can guide you through recovery and help you secure fair compensation.

If your collision involved a commercial vehicle, you may also benefit from speaking with a Philadelphia truck accident attorney who understands the complexities of these serious cases.

Although the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic reduced traffic on the roads by at least 16 percent in 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of people who died in car accidents actually rose to 42,060—an increase of eight percent from 2019, marking the first rise in four years, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). In the same NSC report, the estimate for injuries from car accidents in 2020 was 4.8 million.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reports an increase in fatalities statewide for 2020 to 1,129, despite fewer drivers and fewer overall crashes—down from 125,567 in 2019 to 104,472 in 2020. Because the number of accidents two decades earlier in 2001 was 131,726 and remained steady for years, the 2020 drop was dramatic, making the rise in fatal crashes even more concerning.

With the decrease in total accidents came an increase in single-vehicle crashes. Almost 32,000, roughly one-third of Pennsylvania’s accidents in 2020, involved one car running off the road. Although this is down from 2019’s 38,277 accidents, the percentage share rose compared to prior years.

More than a third of all 2020 accidents fell under PennDOT’s “hit fixed object” category, with 39,441 collisions. Although that number dropped from 43,921 in 2019, it still made up a greater share of total crashes.

Car accidents often cause serious injuries. Some are not immediately visible; some are life-changing; and sadly, some are fatal. Even with today’s advanced safety features, severe outcomes still occur.

At the least serious level, a car accident may only cause property damage, but that can still result in significant expenses, as over 70 percent of Americans rely on their cars for work, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Victims of a car accident need a seasoned attorney to ensure all costs—medical bills, physical therapy, property repairs, and lost wages—are included in their settlement.

Reasons for Car Accidents

Many factors contribute to car accidents, but safety experts and government data show that more than 90 percent result from driver error.

Distracted Driving

In Pennsylvania and nationwide, distracted driving remains one of the most dangerous behaviors. The state recorded 10,826 distracted driving crashes in 2020, a drop from 13,776 in 2019, but they made up a larger share of total accidents.

Even with hands-free technology, drivers can lose focus. Sending or reading a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for about five seconds—enough time for a car at 55 mph to travel the length of a football field, according to the NHTSA.

One in three teens admit to texting while driving, and one in four drivers was using a phone before an accident, according to a 2017 Chicago Tribune report. Distractions go beyond phones—crying, eating, changing clothes, or managing children can also divert attention from driving. Studies show even emotional distress can increase crash risk tenfold.

Aggressive Driving

Pennsylvania reported 6,119 accidents in 2020 caused by aggressive driving. Although people often associate this behavior with road rage, it also includes speeding, tailgating, and frequent lane changes. According to SafeMotorist.com, over 65 percent of traffic fatalities involve aggressive driving, and more than 37 percent of such incidents involve a firearm. Our car accident attorney team can help if you were injured by an aggressive driver.

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common and deadly causes of car crashes. Over half of drivers travel at least 10 mph over the limit daily, according to Driving-tests.org. The NHTSA reports speeding contributed to over 10,000 deaths in 2016, accounting for more than 25 percent of traffic fatalities. The pandemic saw an average 22 percent increase in speeding-related collisions in major metro areas.

Drunk/Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times and impair judgment. Over 65 percent of drivers in trauma centers after serious accidents tested positive for alcohol or drugs in 2020, according to the NHTSA. Alcohol-impaired drivers cause more than 30 percent of all fatal crashes each year. The NIDA also reports marijuana as the second most common substance involved in impaired driving. Prescription drugs can be just as dangerous behind the wheel. PennDOT data shows 9,782 crashes in 2020 involved impaired drivers—about 10 percent of all vehicle accidents that year.

Types of Accidents

Some collisions are more dangerous than others. The point of impact can determine injury severity and vehicle damage. According to the NHTSA, these are among the most common car accidents:

Rear-End Collisions

The NHTSA lists rear-end collisions as the most common accident type in the United States. These often occur when a driver suddenly stops and the vehicle behind cannot brake in time.

Single Vehicle Crashes

This type of crash involves only one car and has become more frequent during the pandemic. Causes may include speeding, distraction, or driving under the influence.

Side-Impact Collisions

Also called T-bone accidents, these occur when one driver fails to yield or runs a red light. They are especially dangerous for passengers in the struck vehicle. Negligence is usually a key factor in these collisions.

Entering the Roadway/Clipping

Drivers should always check blind spots and mirrors before merging or turning. Relying only on sensors or alerts can lead to preventable crashes.

Understanding Economic Damages That Stem From Car Accidents

Accidents happen far too often on Philadelphia’s roads and highways. If you were injured, it’s important to understand the types of damages available.

Economic damages cover financial losses, such as medical expenses—past and future—including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Time spent recovering usually means lost income, and an experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney can help calculate those lost wages.

Property damage also falls under economic damages. For many, their vehicle doubles as an office, meaning cell phones, computers, or inventory inside may have also been damaged. If your accident involved a motorcycle, you may also want to speak with a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer who handles two-wheel injury claims.

Non-Economic Damages: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

Maximizing compensation means considering non-economic damages as well. Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress you’ve endured after a crash. These damages often represent a large portion of a personal injury claim.

Non-economic losses can also include emotional anguish or loss of companionship. Severe injuries that affect your ability to maintain relationships may justify a loss of consortium claim. Having a keen eye for detail and a strong courtroom presence helps Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire pursue maximum compensation for clients.

Assessing Punitive Damages in a Philadelphia Car Accident Case

Punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault driver’s behavior is especially reckless or intentional. Though not common, they serve to punish egregious conduct and deter future negligence. Discuss this with your attorney to determine whether it applies to your case.

The Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. understand the challenges that follow a serious crash. Our team is committed to helping clients recover fair compensation and rebuild their lives. If your case involves a fatal accident, a Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer can help your family seek justice on behalf of your loved one.

Choosing an Attorney Who Can Help You Win Maximum Compensation

Deciding where to turn after a serious car accident can feel overwhelming. Meanwhile, insurance companies move quickly to minimize payouts. Without representation, you may face a low settlement offer—or none at all.

Medical expenses such as emergency care, ambulance rides, surgeries, and therapy can pile up fast. You deserve an advocate who understands how to fight for your rights. An experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney will guide your case toward the best possible outcome and ensure justice is served.

Speak with a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney

If you were hurt in a motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A car accident attorney from our firm will determine liability and guide you through the claims process. Learn more by calling 267-861-7100 to set up a free consultation.

Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. takes the time to understand your goals and circumstances to help you pursue maximum compensation.

When seeking help, do not give up. Learn about all available resources in and around Philadelphia. Located in Philadelphia, Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. proudly serves clients across Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Norristown.