Car Accidents

90 Years of Serving Our Neighbors in Western Pennsylvania

Western Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorneys

Helping Clients In Lawrence County Obtain The Compensation They Deserve

A serious car accident can have a profound impact on your life, potentially leaving you with severe injuries, long-term disabilities, and overwhelming medical expenses. Additionally, you might find yourself unable to work for an extended period, resulting in a significant loss of income. During this challenging time, you may also encounter pressure from insurance companies to settle your claim quickly and for less compensation than you deserve.

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our Western Pennsylvania car accident attorneys recognize the immense stress these circumstances can cause and believe that you should be fairly compensated for all your damages. Our firm has been a steadfast advocate for the Western Pennsylvania community for nearly a century, building a strong reputation for successfully challenging major insurance companies to secure the compensation our clients deserve.

Our Western Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers are prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Knowing our readiness to litigate, insurance companies often agree to more favorable settlements to avoid a trial. This approach enables us to effectively secure the maximum possible compensation for our clients, often without the need for a lengthy court process.

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Understanding Car Accident Law in Western Pennsylvania

When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Western Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the local traffic laws and legal frameworks that will influence the outcome of any claims or legal actions. The laws in Pennsylvania can be quite different from other states, particularly regarding insurance and fault, which can affect both your rights and responsibilities after a car accident.

Pennsylvania traffic laws are designed to ensure the safety and accountability of all drivers on the road. Familiarity with these laws is critical, as they form the basis for determining fault and liability in accidents. These laws cover everything from speed limits and right-of-way, to more specific rules regarding the use of mobile devices while driving.

In 2023, Pennsylvania reported 110,382 traffic accidents, resulting in 66,563 injuries and 1,209 fatalities, with more individuals losing their lives on the state’s roadways, up from 1,179 in 2022.

Additional key figures include the following:

  • Drunk Driver Crashes: Fatalities decreased to 265 in 2023 from 286 in 2022.
  • Non-Motorized Fatalities (e.g., pedestrians, cyclists): Increased to 222 in 2023 from 199 in 2022.
  • Motorcyclist Fatalities: Saw an upward trend in 2023.
  • Suspected Serious Injuries: 4,751 individuals sustained severe injuries requiring extensive medical attention.
  • Minor Injuries: 34,894 individuals experienced less severe injuries.

Driver behavior plays a significant role in traffic fatalities, with 83% of fatal crashes linked to actions such as distracted driving, impaired driving, and aggressive driving. In addition, Philadelphia County reported the highest number of traffic-related fatalities, accounting for 11.2% of the state’s total in 2023.

The statute of limitations is a critical aspect of car accident claims, dictating the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, this period is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to act within this timeframe can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation through the courts.

Understanding these elements of Pennsylvania car accident law is crucial for anyone involved in a car accident in the area. Knowledge of traffic laws, insurance details, and relevant legal deadlines can significantly impact the management and outcome of your case.

If you find yourself needing guidance through this process, the attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. are well-prepared to assist. With their thorough knowledge of Pennsylvania laws and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes, they can provide the support you need. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the legal aftermath of your accident.

Is Pennsylvania a No-Fault State?

When it comes to car insurance and auto accidents, Pennsylvania is a no-fault state. Under no-fault rules, all motorists must carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. In an accident, your PIP insurance covers you for certain losses, including reasonable and necessary medical costs, a portion of your lost wages, and other miscellaneous out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.

Generally speaking, you do not have to prove that anyone else—whether the other driver involved or another party—was at fault for the accident to file a claim. This means you can receive monetary compensation for covered damages, regardless of who was to blame. However, PIP coverage is relatively low.

Pennsylvania only requires motorists to carry PIP coverage in the following amounts:

  • $15,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
  • $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident
  • $5,000 in first-party medical benefits
  • $5,000 in property damage coverage

A severe car accident can result in damages that far exceed these limits. If you have limited tort coverage, you may be unable to bypass the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver for damages unless you can prove that your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold. If, however, you have a type of coverage known as “full tort,” you may be entitled to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

Limited Tort vs. Full Tort Coverage: What is the Difference?

As mentioned above, Pennsylvania has two types of personal injury protection (PIP) coverage: limited tort and full tort coverage. Your coverage is essential, as it determines your rights following a car accident.

Below, we’ve provided a brief overview of the main differences between limited tort and full tort coverage in Pennsylvania:

  • Limited Tort: With limited tort coverage, you must seek compensation for medical expenses and other covered losses through your auto insurance provider. You are not entitled to compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Furthermore, you may be ineligible to sue the at-fault driver, even if your damages exceed your policy limits, unless you have suffered a “serious injury,” as defined by state law.
  • Full Tort: Full tort coverage allows you to recover compensation for covered losses through your auto insurance provider, and it allows you to go outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver for damages regardless of whether or not your injuries are considered “serious.” Full tort coverage also allows you to seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, via a lawsuit against a defendant.

While it can be more difficult to sue a negligent driver for damages when you have limited tort coverage, it is not impossible. You may even be able to recover pain and suffering damages if you can prove that your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold.

Typically, the court weighs various factors when determining whether an injury is “serious” or not. Some of these factors include:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The cost of your medical expenses
  • Whether your injuries have caused significant impairment or disability
  • Whether your injuries have caused significant disfigurement
  • The duration of your impairment or disability
  • Whether your impairment or disability is expected to result in death

Generally speaking, catastrophic injuries—such as spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, among others—are examples of injuries that meet the “serious injury” threshold.

After a car accident, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our team of experienced car accident attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. is dedicated to helping clients in Lawrence County, PA obtain the compensation they deserve. We understand the impact of car accidents and can fight for your rights to receive the maximum compensation possible in your case.

If you have been involved in a car accident, call Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. at (724) 658-8535 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Western Pennsylvania car accident attorney!

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We only work with clients and cases we truly believe in, we take your case because we genuinely believe in both you and your case’s importance.

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Having represented over 10,000 clients, we’ve brought more cases to trial than many attorneys in Western PA

Common Car Accident Injuries in Western Pennsylvania

While the worst car accident injuries usually happen when a vehicle is moving at high speeds, it is still possible for serious injuries or death to occur when a car is moving very slowly, or even not at all, such as when a driver is backing out of a driveway or parking spot and hits a pedestrian or someone on a bicycle. 

Whether you were the driver, a passenger, or a bystander, victims of car accidents often suffer from:

Steps to Do After a Car AccidentDescription
Seek Medical CarePrioritize medical attention to address injuries and control bleeding.
Document DetailsObtain vehicle registration, driver’s contact information, and take photos of the accident scene.
File a Police ReportReport the accident to the police to create an official record.
Consult an AttorneyEngage a car accident attorney for advice, evidence collection, and claim assistance.

Having a strong back, a healthy brain, and a good nervous system are all central to being able to live a full life that is not plagued by crippling pain. When someone has been injured in a serious car accident, these are often things that the injured party can no longer take for granted. Some of the worst injuries involve nerve damage to the spinal cord which can result in long-term or even permanent paralysis and/or pain. A blow to the head can impair cognitive function which can leave a person unable to work and earn a living and prevent many future meaningful relationships

Injuries to the neck and chest can affect a person’s breathing function and may be especially dangerous for someone who has an existing heart condition. These types of injuries — or almost any injury can potentially raise the stress levels of a person with such a condition and cause cardiac arrest. Even without heart issues, someone who has taken a blow to the neck or chest may experience long-term pain that could limit their ability to function normally long after the crash

With the impact of an accident, broken bones are not uncommon, and it isn’t always easy to tell what is broken right away. Cracked or broken ribs can potentially puncture a vital organ, such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys causing long-term health problems, pain, or even death from internal bleeding.

Start Your Pennsylvania Car Accident Claim With Confidence: Experienced Assistance from LGKG

Our Family is Here to Help Yours

At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., we genuinely care about every one of our clients. We will never treat you like just another case number; instead, you can expect us to take the time to get to know you, learn what happened, and share how we can help. We strive to develop meaningful, lasting relationships with our clients, so they always know we have their backs.

Our firm is proud to have attorneys who have consistently been recognized for their legal excellence, as evidenced by their inclusion on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers® list for multiple consecutive years. They have also earned the AV® Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, reflecting their strong legal ability and high ethical standards. Additionally, some of our attorneys are Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialists by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, highlighting their proficiency in civil litigation.

Over the years, we have successfully recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients, demonstrating our commitment to achieving significant outcomes for those affected by serious motor vehicle accidents. Our goal is to help you recover from your ordeal and ensure you receive the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can assist you. Our firm offers a complimentary initial consultation to discuss your car accident case. This meeting is a chance for you to learn more about our team, our approach to legal practice, and how we can assist you in securing the fair compensation you deserve.

Contact Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. today at (724) 658-8535 to speak with one of our top-rated attorneys.

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Being involved in car accidents is widely considered to be a terrifying experience. Not only are you likely to sustain catastrophic injuries, but your recovery process can be an arduous journey, to say the least. Despite going through a difficult period, it is recommended to keep a cool head while seeking adequate assistance.

  • Seeking medical care should be the first and most important course of action to take. Based on the gravity of the injuries sustained, seeking medical attention in time can spell the difference between survival and death. This primarily means you should check for visible injuries and control the bleeding with as much precision as possible. You can also enlist the aid of bystanders to assist in any way possible. Serious injuries can adversely affect mobility, so limit any movement until the medical team arrives.
  • Make sure to document crucial details regarding the reckless driver. This essentially means obtaining the vehicle’s registration as well as the driver’s contact information. Despite feeling a frenzy of emotions, abstain from any confrontation with the reckless driver as doing so can adversely affect your case in court.
  • Take pictures of the vehicle with emphasis on the damaged areas. In case the driver desists from providing a driver’s license, then take a photograph of him with the vehicle.
  • Speak with an experienced Western Pennsylvania car accident attorney. An attorney can assist you in collecting additional evidence you may have missed and help you in accomplishing any requirements for a successful claim. Consulting an attorney early in the process can also help you avoid potential issues when dealing with insurance companies.
  • Filing a police report should be next on the agenda. If you intend on obtaining compensation immediately, filing a police report shortly after an accident ensures that the report is comprehensive and that the claiming process is as smooth as possible. Your attorney can assist you in this regard.
  • While filing the report, don’t admit to any wrongdoing, as doing so makes you liable to prosecution, and obtaining compensation will now be a tall order. In most cases, the insurance company will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the actual sequence of events and the guilty party. In most situations, insurance companies might not cater for medical expenses. Hence, seek an alternative solution from the convicted offender.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Western Pennsylvania, the road to recovery can be fraught with both physical and legal challenges. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our attorneys provide robust legal support to car accident victims, advocating for your rights throughout the claims process.

Our team understands the hardship involved after a car accident and can assist with legal issues stemming from filing a claim, from negotiating with insurance companies to litigating complex disputes. We understand the significant impact that such an accident can have on your life, and we strive to manage every legal detail so you can concentrate on your recovery.

For those injured in car accidents, whether drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. offers comprehensive legal assistance to secure the compensation you are rightfully owed. We encourage you to reach out to us to discuss your case. Let our skilled attorneys handle the legal burdens while you focus on healing and moving forward.

Car accident cases are complex, and even if they appear simple on the surface and the other driver is clearly at fault, it will always work in your best interest to hire an attorney. For any kind of personal injury lawsuit, you want a lawyer by your side helping you every step of the way.

You Can Expect Heavy Opposition

To recover adequate damages, you may need to fight with your insurance agency. These companies always have huge teams of lawyers on retainer. Even if you know for a fact you deserve those damages, the insurance company will fight with experienced lawyers to pay out as little as possible. You are at a significant disadvantage if you represent yourself.

You May Be Able to Get More Than You Think

To avoid a lawsuit, your insurance company may offer a settlement right away. It can be a tempting offer, especially if it is a large sum you think will cover your medical expenses and auto repair costs. However, an attorney can review your case thoroughly to determine how much money you could potentially obtain if the case goes to trial. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our Western Pennsylvania car accident attorneys can help you determine what your claim is worth and can fight for the full, fair compensation you are owed.

You Can Focus On Your Well-Being

With an attorney, you have a personal advocate. Your attorney can speak with insurance agents and handle the minutiae of the case. If you sustained serious injuries, then the most important thing during this time is to focus on your recovery. You should follow your doctor’s orders and get plenty of rest. The last thing you need to do is study legal principles when you can have someone else handle that for you.

Car accidents can vary widely in type and severity, each presenting unique challenges and legal considerations. In Western Pennsylvania, understanding the nuances of different accident types is crucial for legal representation. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., we handle a range of accident types, each requiring a tailored approach to effectively support the client’s claim and maximize their potential compensation.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents. These occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another. Typically, the driver who rear-ends the other vehicle is considered at fault, often due to speeding, distraction, or failing to maintain a safe following distance. Legal representation is key in addressing disputes over fault or negotiating with insurance providers.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are particularly dangerous and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. These accidents usually happen when a vehicle crosses into oncoming traffic. The determination of fault in head-on collisions can be complex, involving in-depth investigations and analysis of traffic laws and driver actions at the time of the accident.

T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents, or side-impact collisions, typically occur at intersections and involve the front of one vehicle colliding with the side of another. Determining liability in T-bone accidents often hinges on right-of-way laws, traffic signals, or signs that may have been disregarded. Legal advice is essential to navigate these cases, as they can involve multiple parties and conflicting accounts of the event.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Multi-vehicle pile-ups are chaotic events that can involve numerous vehicles and are frequently seen on highways. The complexity of multi-vehicle accidents means that establishing fault can involve multiple insurers, eyewitnesses, and extensive legal scrutiny. Effective legal representation is critical in untangling the contributions of various parties to the accident.

Each type of accident requires a thorough understanding of Pennsylvania traffic and insurance laws to represent a client’s interests effectively. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a severe multi-vehicle pile-up or the common yet disruptive rear-end collision, the attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. are ready to assist. With a deep understanding of legal precedents and a rigorous approach to your case, we are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today to discuss your accident and find out how we can support your recovery process.

Handling insurance claims after a car accident can be a daunting task, especially in the context of Pennsylvania’s unique insurance regulations. Effective management of these claims is crucial for securing fair compensation. Our attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. are adept at guiding clients through the complex landscape of insurance claims, ensuring that their rights are protected and their needs are met.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Interacting with insurance companies often involves negotiating settlements and understanding the scope of policy terms. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect the company’s bottom line, which can mean less favorable outcomes for those unfamiliar with the process. Experienced legal representation can be invaluable in these negotiations, helping to counter low settlement offers and expedite the claims process.

Understanding Your Policy Coverage

A thorough understanding of your insurance policy is vital following an accident. Policyholders need to know what their insurance covers and any relevant exclusions or limitations. This knowledge is essential for effectively filing a claim and understanding the extent of coverage for damages and medical expenses.

Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Reduce Payouts

Insurance companies may use various tactics to minimize the amount they pay out. Common strategies include disputing the severity of injuries, questioning the necessity of certain treatments, or attributing fault to the injured party. Recognizing these tactics and preparing to address them can significantly influence the outcome of your claim.

Facing insurance companies when filing a claim often requires a comprehensive understanding of both legal and insurance industry practices. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our attorneys are equipped with the knowledge and experience to handle complex insurance issues arising from car accidents. If you are struggling with an insurance claim or feel overwhelmed by the process, contact us today. We are here to help you achieve the most favorable resolution, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Be wary of accepting the insurance company’s settlement offer without contacting an attorney. An attorney can investigate your case in detail and evaluate which types of damages you may be entitled to receive. They will often consult experts, including physicians and police officers, to understand the full extent of your injuries and the impact they have had and will continue to have on your life.

At LGKG, we take the time to understand the details of your case to help ensure you receive maximum compensation.

Such recovery may include:

  • Lost income from missing days of work—past and future
  • Relevant medical bills and missed payments due to injury
  • General pain and suffering
  • Damage to property

Some compensation even includes punitive damages. This will depend on the gravity of the other driver’s negligence and the losses in question. Punitive damages are damages charged to the at-fault party as punishment.

Generally, you recover compensation through an insurance company—either the other driver’s insurance company, your own, or both. If the driver is uninsured, you can usually file a claim for compensation against them personally.

At LGKG, we work to ensure your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage are covered. This includes issuing letters of protection to medical providers assuring that the bill will be paid if a settlement is collected. If necessary, we enlist medical experts, economists, vocational experts, and life care planners to assemble a comprehensive demand package covering all future needs.

Our firm has successfully represented victims of distracted drivers, drunk drivers, and other negligent individuals whose careless and reckless behavior has led to devastating injuries, life-changing impairments, and death. We have also successfully handled complex auto accident claims involving passenger injuries, hit-and-runs, road defects, Ubers, Lyfts, and other rideshares. No matter how complicated your case may be, you can trust our team of car accident attorneys in Western Pennsylvania to provide the personalized attention and support you need throughout the legal process.

Who Pays When a Passenger Is Injured In a Pennsylvania Car Accident?

When passengers are injured in auto collisions, it can create confusing or awkward scenarios. Whose insurance covers the passenger’s compensation? What if the at-fault driver is a family member or friend?

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have dealt with these issues many times. Compensation depends on the circumstances of the accident and the insurance policies in play. Bottom line: you can count on Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George to take care of you. We pursue all applicable claims to make sure that you are compensated as fully as possible.

Request your initial consultation by calling our firm at (724) 658-8535.

We Know the Legal Issues in Passenger Accidents

Passenger injuries can be legally complicated, but our lawyers will deal with the insurance companies for you. Pennsylvania is a no-fault state. This means that each person’s medical bills and lost wages are covered by their own insurance even if another driver was at fault for the crash.

Commonly, insurance companies provide compensation for:

  • an adult passenger, their own car insurance pays even though they were not driving.
  • a child passenger, their family’s auto policy pays, even if the parent or older sibling who was driving was at fault.
  • a serious car accident, the damages may exceed the policy limits of the victim’s no-fault insurance.

Do I Have to Sue My Friend or Family Member?

If you were riding with a friend, a co-worker or relative when the accident occured, it could be necessary to bring a claim against them to get all of your losses covered. It is understandable to be leery of “suing” someone you know. Keep in mind this is primarily an insurance matter. Typically, we can work out a settlement without having to file a formal lawsuit and point fingers in court.

Let Us Deal with the Details

We can address all the nuances in car accidents, such as limited tort vs. full tort coverage in auto insurance policies. The legal team at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George has represented many injured passengers with good results. We will handle the legal and insurance issues while you focus on recovering from the injuries.

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