(267) 682-8918
Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer
Helping Car Accident Victims Receive Fair Compensation for Their Car Accident Claims
Car crashes, though fairly common in the United States, are almost always frightening and traumatic events that can occur when we least expect them. In most cases, the car accident victim can walk away from the auto accident more or less unscathed, but in some serious accidents, motorists and their passengers are not so lucky.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident, you need the legal guidance of Philadelphia car accident attorneys to help you with your claim.
Philadelphia car accident lawyer Duane Lassiter has extensive experience helping personal injury victims, including those who’ve suffered injuries in motor vehicle crashes. At our personal injury law firm, we understand and respect the impact that a car accident injury can have on you and your family members.
Not only does a crash typically result in property damage, but it could also result in physical pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Car accident victims in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, can seek compensation for their injuries and other losses.
In pursuit of maximum compensation for your auto accident case, you are recommended to work with an experienced personal injury attorney. As your lawyer, Duane Lassiter and his experienced legal team will help you with the filing of your personal injury lawsuit and assist you with negotiations with the insurance company in pursuit of a fair and full settlement.
To learn more about the legal services offered by our personal injury law firm, please contact us to discuss how your car accident occurred, the injuries sustained in the accident, and other facts related to your auto accident case. Our Philadelphia, PA car accident attorneys offer free consultations to prospective new clients interested in retaining our legal services. Call today at 267-682-8918 to get started.
How Common Are Car Accidents?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 40,000 people die annually in auto accidents. Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of death for young people in America. In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also estimates that there are millions of nonfatal personal injuries suffered in car accidents every year. However, these statistics do not consider the number of injuries that go unreported.
In 2023, there were more than 110,000 reportable car accidents in Pennsylvania. These auto collisions claimed more than 1,000 lives and injured more than 66,000 people. Thankfully, the total number of motor vehicle accidents fell by over 5,000 cases compared with 2022. However, the fatalities increased by 30.
Based on the 2023 population of Pennsylvania, one out of every 53 people has been involved in a reportable auto accident, one out of every 195 Pennsylvanians was injured in reportable traffic crashes, and one out of every 10,721 people was fatally injured in a reportable car crash in Pennsylvania.
If you are an auto accident victim, you require knowledgeable legal representation from attorneys with experience in Pennsylvania law. Contact personal injury lawyer Duane Lassiter to discuss your car accident case in a free consultation today.
What Should You Do After an Auto Accident?
Immediately following a car accident, check yourself and your passengers for potential injuries. Call 911 to request emergency medical services as soon as you are able. If you are not badly hurt, proceed to check on the status of anyone else involved in the car crash.
While you should remain polite with other drivers involved in the auto accident, do not go so far as to say you’re sorry, admit fault, or dismiss the severity of your injuries. Simply exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved.
Photograph and video the accident scene. These images could be valuable evidence to a Philadelphia personal injury attorney.
While awaiting the arrival of law enforcement and ambulances, seek out witnesses to the accident and get their contact information. If they are willing, record their eyewitness statements while still at the scene of the accident.
Notify your insurance company as soon as you are able. While you should remain honest about the car collision, do not go so far as to admit faults or speculate about details you are not sure of. Do not sign any documents or provide a recorded statement without legal representation.
You must seek emergency medical attention immediately following a car wreck. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, they could worsen with time, and you want to create a paper trail of medical records to support your personal injury claim.
When police question you at the accident scene, attempt to provide them with an accurate accounting of how the car accident occurred. Police reports will be valuable evidence to your attorneys.
If you have not done so already, now is the time to contact a Philadelphia lawyer about your car accident case. Please contact personal injury lawyer Duane Lassiter to schedule your free initial consultation today.
What Types of Car Accident Cases Do Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers Represent?
At Lassiter & Associates, our Philadelphia car accident lawyers handle a wide range of motor vehicle accidents across Pennsylvania. No matter how your car accident occurred, our legal team is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing full and fair compensation for your losses. We know every collision comes with unique challenges, and our experience allows us to build strong personal injury cases that hold negligent drivers accountable.
Below are the most common types of auto collisions and car accident claims we handle — each requiring its own strategic legal approach:
Bicycle and Motorcycle Accidents
Cyclists and motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable accident victims on the road. These crashes often lead to serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones. Our personal injury lawyers investigate driver negligence, road hazards, and visibility issues to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care.
Collisions with Fixed Objects
Crashes involving trees, poles, or guardrails can occur due to poor road design, distracted driving, or defective auto parts. Even though another driver might not be directly involved, you may still be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim or your uninsured motorist coverage. Our experienced attorneys help identify liability and navigate complex insurance processes.
Commercial Truck Accidents
Accidents involving large commercial trucks often result in catastrophic damage and severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Our Philadelphia car accident attorneys understand federal trucking regulations and work to hold trucking companies, drivers, and insurers accountable for negligence.
Drunk Driver Accidents
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cause devastating accidents and wrongful death. We pursue aggressive personal injury lawsuits against intoxicated drivers and may also explore punitive damages to hold them fully accountable for their reckless behavior.
Head-On Collisions
These high-impact crashes are among the most dangerous and often lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Our personal injury attorneys analyze police reports, skid marks, and vehicle damage to determine fault and maximize your recovery.
Hit-and-Run Incidents
When a driver flees the scene, it leaves victims feeling helpless. Our Philadelphia personal injury lawyers can help you file uninsured motorist claims, locate the at-fault driver, and pursue all available compensation options through your insurance provider.
Multi-Car Pileups
Determining fault in multi-vehicle collisions can be challenging, as several drivers or even weather conditions may play a role. Our car accident attorneys use expert testimony, accident reconstruction, and evidence from the scene to identify every responsible party and ensure fair recovery.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer devastating injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Our law firm advocates for injured pedestrians in Philadelphia, helping them recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are common but can cause painful injuries like whiplash, back strain, and concussions. We hold negligent drivers accountable and work to recover full compensation for all resulting damages.
Rideshare Accidents
With more people using Uber and Lyft, rideshare accidents have become increasingly complex. Our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys understand how to handle cases involving multiple insurance carriers and corporate policies to ensure victims are compensated fairly.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover crashes often involve SUVs and trucks with a high center of gravity. Victims may face crushing injuries or fatalities. Our car accident lawyers analyze whether road conditions, mechanical defects, or driver negligence contributed to the crash.
Single-Vehicle Crashes
Even if no other driver was involved, you might still be entitled to compensation. We investigate whether road defects, faulty vehicle parts, or poor maintenance contributed to the accident, protecting your right to financial recovery.
T-Bone Accidents
Also known as side-impact collisions, these occur most often at intersections and can cause life-changing injuries. Our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys use medical records, witness statements, and crash data to build a compelling case for compensation.
Uninsured and Underinsured Accidents
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, you still have legal options. Our experienced car accident lawyers help you pursue claims through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or explore other avenues for compensation.
If you’ve been injured in any type of car accident, you need dedicated legal representation that can prove negligence, handle insurance negotiations, and fight for your rights in court. By collecting medical records, accident reports, and photographic evidence, our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Lassiter & Associates can guide you through the personal injury claim process and help you achieve justice. Call today to schedule a free consultation and get the support you need to rebuild your life.
What Are Common Causes of Philadelphia Car Accidents?
There is no shortage of causes for auto accidents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In most motor vehicle accident cases, it comes down to driver negligence. However, other causes may need to be investigated after a car accident occurs.
Common causes of Philadelphia car accidents include the following:
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Distracted driving
- Driving at excessive speeds
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Driving without a license
- Drowsy driving and driver fatigue
- Drunk driving
- Failure to obey traffic signals and rules of the road
- Road rage
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Tailgating or driving too closely behind the lead vehicle
- Failure to yield to the right of way
- Failing to check rearview mirrors
- Inattentive driving
- Motor vehicle defects
- Poor road conditions
- Road debris
- Talking on a cell phone while driving
- Texting while driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Unsafe road design
Even if you are a safe and responsible driver, you can still fall victim to a negligent motorist’s behavior on the road. If you are an auto accident victim who has suffered injuries or property damage after a car wreck, you deserve legal counsel who is in your corner throughout the entire process. Contact our law firm to schedule your free case review today.
How to Determine Fault After a Motor Vehicle Accident?
Most motor vehicle accidents occur because one or more drivers violated a number of traffic rules. In some cases, it is easy to determine fault and assess blame. However, in other car accident cases, determining fault may not be quite so easy.
Pennsylvania is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning that multiple parties can be held accountable for causing an accident, and the fault is rarely ever assigned 100% to a single party.
Determining fault is essential because it dictates who must compensate a car accident victim and how much that compensation should be. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your auto accident case and attempt to prove your claims that establish fault rests on the shoulders of the other parties.
How to Prove Driver Negligence?
In most motor vehicle accident cases, it is necessary to prove negligence on the part of the at-fault parties.
Firstly, you must demonstrate that the defendant owed a certain legal duty of care. In Pennsylvania, all motorists owe other drivers a certain level of care, meaning that they must adhere to the rules of the road and operate their motor vehicles responsibly to prevent harm from befalling others.
You and your personal injury attorney must show that the defendant failed to fulfill their duty of care through reckless, negligent, careless, or malicious actions, and, as a result of a breach of that duty, the accident occurred.
As a result of that breach of duty, the accident occurred. You and your Philadelphia car accident attorney must be able to prove that the car crash would not have occurred if it wasn’t for the defendant’s negligence.
Finally, you must provide evidence of your personal injuries and losses suffered as a result of the auto crash. You may not have a valid personal injury claim if you suffered no real losses due to the automobile crash.
Who Can Potentially Be Held Accountable in Pennsylvania Car Accident Cases?
Determining liability is one of the most important steps in any Philadelphia car accident case. A skilled Philadelphia car accident lawyer from Lassiter & Associates will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all parties that may share responsibility for your injuries and losses. Under Pennsylvania law, it’s possible for multiple parties to be held legally accountable depending on how the collision occurred and what factors contributed to it. Holding all negligent parties liable can significantly increase the amount of compensation you recover.
Other Drivers
Most often, another motorist is to blame for your crash. Common examples of negligence include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, tailgating, or failing to obey traffic signals. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers will collect evidence such as police reports, dashcam footage, and eyewitness statements to prove another driver’s fault.
Bars or Restaurants that Served Alcohol to an Obviously Intoxicated Patron
Under Pennsylvania’s dram shop laws, bars, clubs, or restaurants that serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated can be held legally responsible if that person causes a car accident. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer will review surveillance footage, receipts, and witness testimony to establish liability for overserving.
Motor Vehicle Manufacturers
Sometimes, the accident results from a defective vehicle or faulty component—such as brakes, airbags, or tires. In these cases, your Philadelphia car accident attorney may pursue a product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer or parts supplier to hold them accountable for unsafe design, production errors, or failure to warn consumers.
Government Entities
State or local government agencies may be responsible if hazardous road conditions—like potholes, missing signage, poor lighting, or unmarked construction areas—contributed to the crash. Filing a claim against a government entity in Pennsylvania involves specific deadlines and procedural requirements, which an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer will handle on your behalf.
Employers of At-Fault Drivers
If the negligent driver was working at the time of the collision, their employer might be held liable under the legal concept of vicarious liability. This often applies to delivery drivers, rideshare operators, or commercial truck drivers. Your attorney will examine employment records and insurance coverage to ensure all responsible parties are included in your personal injury claim.
Construction Companies that Do Not Properly Mark Construction Zones
When construction companies fail to follow safety regulations—such as properly marking detours, posting warning signs, or keeping debris off the roadway—they can create dangerous conditions that lead to serious accidents. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers will investigate site safety protocols, work zone logs, and witness reports to determine if a construction company’s negligence played a role in your crash.
At Lassiter & Associates, we leave no stone unturned when it comes to determining who is at fault. Our team will use expert witnesses, accident reconstruction specialists, and extensive documentation to build a strong case on your behalf. If you’ve been injured in a Philadelphia car accident, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, identify liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What if You Are Partially to Blame for the Cause of the Car Crash?
It is possible for car accident victims to have contributed in some way to the cause of the accident. Under Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence laws, if you are deemed partially responsible for the car crash, this will affect how much you may recover in terms of financial compensation. However, under our modified comparative negligence doctrine, if you are more than 50% at fault for causing the accident, you will be barred from claiming any damages from other parties.
Given the potential of these laws significantly affecting how much you may recover in terms of pain and suffering, medical expenses, property damage expenses, and more, it is critically important that you work with an experienced personal injury attorney to represent your case.
Our legal team has the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of state laws and present your case in a favorable light as you pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries and other losses.
What Are Common Car Accident Injuries?
At Lassiter & Associates, our Philadelphia car accident attorneys represent clients who have suffered a wide range of serious injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents. The aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming, both physically and financially, and understanding your injuries is an important step in seeking the compensation you deserve.
Our Philadelphia personal injury lawyers have extensive experience helping accident victims recover compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Below are some of the most common types of car accident injuries we handle and how they can affect your life:
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck trauma are among the most frequent results of car accidents. These injuries can range from minor strains to severe herniated discs or fractured vertebrae. Victims often experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, and ongoing physical therapy needs.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are common in high-impact car accidents, especially in collisions involving airbags or seatbelt restraints. Fractures may require surgery, casting, and months of rehabilitation, often keeping victims out of work.
Burns
When accidents lead to vehicle fires or airbag deployment, burn injuries can occur. Burns cause lasting disfigurement and emotional distress, often requiring skin grafts and long-term treatment.
Complete or Partial Paralysis
Spinal damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis, altering a person’s independence and quality of life. Our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys work tirelessly to ensure victims receive compensation for lifelong medical care and necessary home modifications.
Disfigurement
Scarring and disfigurement caused by broken glass, burns, or impact injuries can lead to lasting physical and emotional trauma. These cases often include claims for emotional suffering and cosmetic surgery costs.
Head Trauma
Head injuries, from concussions to skull fractures, can have serious long-term effects on memory, mood, and concentration. Even mild trauma should be evaluated by a medical professional, as symptoms may worsen over time.
Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
Internal injuries can be life-threatening and are not always visible right after a crash. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent complications such as organ failure or death.
Loss of Limbs
Severe accidents can cause crushing injuries that lead to amputation. Our car accident lawyers pursue full compensation for medical devices, prosthetics, and loss of earning capacity.
Lost Vision or Sight
Eye injuries from shattered glass, chemical exposure, or head trauma can result in temporary or permanent vision loss, dramatically affecting a victim’s daily life and employment opportunities.
Soft Tissue Injuries
These injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to pain and limited movement. While they may seem minor, soft tissue injuries can take months to fully heal.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury can have catastrophic consequences, including permanent paralysis and loss of bodily function. Our experienced attorneys work closely with medical experts to accurately assess the lifetime costs associated with these injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
TBI is one of the most severe outcomes of a car accident, often resulting in cognitive impairment, speech issues, and behavioral changes. These injuries require specialized treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common soft tissue injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck during impact. Symptoms can include stiffness, dizziness, and chronic pain that can last for months.
Wrongful Death
In tragic cases where a loved one loses their life due to another driver’s negligence, our Philadelphia car accident attorneys help families pursue wrongful death claims. These cases can provide financial support for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Medical bills and rehabilitation costs can quickly escalate following a crash. As your dedicated legal representation, personal injury lawyer Duane Lassiter and the team at Lassiter & Associates will fight to maximize the compensation you recover, ensuring you have the resources to rebuild your life. To learn more about how we can help, contact our Philadelphia personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation.
Recover Compensation with Our Philadelphia, PA Car Accident Attorneys
After a Philadelphia car accident, you need a Pennsylvania car accident attorney in your corner to help you recover damages from the at-fault party and their insurance company. These damages may come in the form of both economic and non-economic damages.
You could be entitled to compensation such as the following:
Past Medical Bills and Future Medical Expenses
A Philadelphia car accident lawyer can help ensure your settlement covers all healthcare costs—emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation related to your injuries.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, your Philadelphia car accident lawyer will fight for compensation for the income you’ve already lost and the time you will need to recover.
Lost Future Income-Earning Capacity
For victims with long-term or permanent disabilities, we calculate future earning potential losses so you’re not left struggling financially.
Property Damage and Vehicle Repairs or Replacements
We’ll pursue reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement, ensuring your property damage is fully covered by the responsible party.
Physical Pain and Suffering
Car accidents often cause severe physical pain that can persist long after the crash. A Philadelphia car accident lawyer will quantify these damages and fight for fair compensation.
Mental Anguish and Emotional Distress
The trauma of a car accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional damages deserve recognition and financial recovery.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If your injuries prevent you from doing the things you once loved, our Philadelphia car accident lawyers will seek damages for loss of enjoyment and diminished quality of life.
Lost Companionship or Consortium
Injured spouses may recover compensation for loss of companionship and affection resulting from the physical or emotional consequences of the accident.
Wrongful Death and Funeral Costs
In fatal accidents, our compassionate Philadelphia car accident lawyers help surviving families pursue wrongful death claims to cover funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
In certain cases, punitive damages may also apply. These damages are awarded when the at-fault driver’s actions were reckless or malicious, such as in drunk driving or hit-and-run accidents. They serve to punish the negligent party and deter similar conduct in the future.
All Philadelphia car accident cases are different. An experienced personal injury lawyer from our law firm will guide you through the entire legal process and work to obtain compensation you are owed.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Philadelphia, PA, Today
When you’ve been injured in a car accident, the impact on your life can be devastating—physically, emotionally, and financially. The value of your Philadelphia car accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your serious injuries, your medical expenses, lost wages, and the strength of your personal injury claim. At Lassiter & Associates, our Philadelphia car accident lawyers understand how complex these cases can be and how insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. That’s why we fight aggressively to recover maximum compensation for every client we represent.
Our personal injury law firm has handled countless motor vehicle accidents across Pennsylvania, helping accident victims pursue fair settlements for medical bills, emotional distress, and other damages. Whether your car accident case involves minor injuries or catastrophic harm like wrongful death, our experienced car accident lawyers will build a detailed personal injury lawsuit that proves negligence and protects your rights under Pennsylvania law.
As your Philadelphia car accident attorney, we’ll gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and if necessary, take your car accident lawsuit to court to pursue the compensation you deserve. We’ve secured favorable outcomes in even the most serious car accidents and personal injury cases, ensuring our clients can focus on recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
At Lassiter & Associates, our goal is simple—to help you move forward after your accident with the financial security you need. If you’ve suffered severe injuries in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys in Philadelphia, PA, for a free consultation today at 267-682-8918. We’re ready to stand by your side and fight for the full and fair compensation you’re entitled to.