A Pennsylvania car accident can lead to insurance claims, medical bills and questions about coverage. Knowing what each policy covers can help drivers understand what benefits and expenses their insurance may cover after an accident.
Dealing with insurance after a Pennsylvania car accident
After a crash, what insurance pays for depends on several things. This includes the policy, how bad the injuries are and the driver’s tort option. There are steps available that can help drivers sort through a claim, including:
- Gathering evidence immediately: Right after a crash, drivers should collect photos of the scene, the official police report, witness contact details and records of any communication with insurance adjusters.
- Reviewing policy coverage and tort selection: Drivers should review their auto insurance declarations page. They should confirm the limits for bodily injury, property damage and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Drivers should also confirm whether they have full tort or limited tort coverage. This choice can affect whether an injured person can seek compensation for pain and suffering.
- Utilizing mandatory medical benefits: Pennsylvania law requires every auto policy to include at least $5,000 in medical benefits (first-party benefits). This coverage pays initial medical bills after a covered accident regardless of who caused the crash.
- Evaluating settlement offers carefully: Drivers should compare a settlement offer with their medical bills, lost wages and future treatment costs. They should also look at other ways to recover compensation. These may include a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. A UIM claim under the driver’s own policy may also be available.
Taking these proactive measures may help injured parties secure the necessary documentation to support various aspects of a claim. In addition to managing insurance details, navigating post-crash legal rules effectively requires keeping a few key state regulations in mind.
Important reminders for Pennsylvania drivers
Drivers should call the police after a serious crash. Pennsylvania law requires drivers to report crashes that cause injuries or deaths. Drivers should avoid admitting fault after a crash. They should not guess who caused the accident when speaking with the other driver or an insurance adjuster. Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence rule. A driver may recover compensation if they are 50% or less at fault.
Talking with a Pennsylvania car accident attorney
Insurance claims can become more difficult after a serious accident. A dispute over fault or limited coverage can add to the problem. A Pennsylvania attorney can review the police report, medical records and insurance policy. They can also review a settlement offer and explain what losses it covers. An attorney can communicate with the insurance company and gather evidence for the claim. If needed, they can file a lawsuit before the deadline.