Regardless of the time of year, the weather is one of the most common causes of car accidents. Still, 24% of all weather-related collisions occur on icy, snow-packed, or slushy roadways. Because these road conditions take away traction, wintertime accidents often involve more than two vehicles.
If you are in the middle of a multi-car accident, other vehicles may hit your car on all sides. This, of course, may leave you with catastrophic injuries. If the mounting medical bills become too much to bear, you may wonder who to hold legally responsible for your wintertime pileup car accident.
Managing the aftermath of a car accident in Pennsylvania can be daunting, especially when you are dealing with the consequences of snow-related incidents. At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our Western Pennsylvania car accident attorneys understand how challenging these times can be, and are committed to handling cases with the utmost care and professionalism. With nearly a century of service in the area, we have built a strong reputation for advocating on behalf of our clients and securing the compensation they deserve, even against the toughest of insurance companies. Contact us today at (724) 658-8535 to schedule a consultation.
A Case-by-Case Analysis
With accidents that involve only two vehicles, assigning blame is generally not difficult. That is not the case with pileups, however. This is because a variety of factors may contribute to the crash. Likewise, many drivers may be partly or even mostly at fault for the collision. Working with an accident reconstructionist may help you determine why your accident happened.
Your Chances of Recovery
Speed is often a factor in chain-reaction crashes that happen during the winter. Even if you were driving below-posted limits, you could have been traveling too fast for road conditions. Fortunately, provided you are not more than 51% responsible for the accident, you may be able to pursue financial compensation from other responsible drivers.
Modified Comparative Negligence
If you were partly to blame for the pileup, you may not be able to recover financial compensation for all your damages. That is, due to Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence law, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you have $100,000 in damages and were 25% responsible for the accident, you may only be able to recover $75,000 from other legally responsible drivers.
Ultimately, because both assigning blame for a multi-car accident and pursuing financial compensation can be complicated matters, it is critical to explore all your legal options as soon as possible.
Does Insurance Cover Snow Accidents?
In Pennsylvania, where winter weather can turn roads treacherous, many drivers wonder if their auto insurance will cover accidents caused by snow and ice. Fortunately, most auto insurance policies include coverage for such situations, but it is important to understand the specific details involved.
Pennsylvania operates under a “no-fault” insurance system, which means that your auto insurance should cover certain costs from an accident, regardless of fault. This generally includes medical expenses and compensation for lost wages due to the accident. Nonetheless, examining your particular policy is essential to grasp the full scope of what’s covered.
One key factor to consider is your deductible—the amount you must pay before your insurance coverage comes in. If you have a high deductible, you could end up paying a significant amount before your insurance coverage takes effect. Additionally, while your policy may cover accidents involving snow and ice, exclusions may apply. For example, if negligence led to the accident, such as failing to properly de-ice your vehicle, your insurance company might contest your claim.
To avoid surprises, it is vital to confirm the details of your coverage with your insurance provider. Knowing exactly what your policy entails can give you peace of mind during the winter months and help you manage any incidents that occur more effectively.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| No-Fault Insurance System | Covers medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault. Reviewing your specific policy ensures clarity. |
| Deductible Impact | High deductibles may lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses before insurance coverage begins. |
| Exclusions | Coverage may be denied if negligence, such as not de-icing your vehicle, contributed to the accident. |
Working With an Experienced Western Pennsylvania Car Accident Attorney
Wintertime in Pennsylvania often brings hazardous driving conditions that can lead to pile-up accidents. In the chaos of such accidents, determining liability and securing fair compensation becomes significantly challenging. After a wintertime pileup car accident, it is crucial to seek legal assistance to protect your rights and interests.
At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C., our experienced car accident attorneys are well-versed in handling the unique challenges of multi-vehicle accidents. We are committed to serving the Western Pennsylvania community, and our team is prepared to advocate vigorously on your behalf. We can work diligently to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients, securing necessary settlements to get through such challenging times. Contact us today at (724) 658-8535 to schedule a consultation.
