What to Do After a Car Accident in Pittsburgh: A Step-by-Step Guide

Car accidents happen everywhere, especially close to home. In 2024, 1,534 car accidents happened in Pittsburgh. After a car accident in Pittsburgh, many people are left hurt, unable to work,and overwhelmed by medical bills. They’re often unsure what to do next.

‍

Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Pittsburgh

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to do after a car accident in Pittsburgh. Right after the crash, your safety comes first.

• Move away from oncoming traffic if you can.
• Then check for injuries and call 911 so the police can respond and take an accident report.
• Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver.
• If you can, take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries. Try to get contact info for any witnesses too.
• If you're hurt and an ambulance is offered, take it. Even if you don't go right away, make sure to see a doctor as soon as possible. This helps start your recovery and documents your injuries.

‍

What to Do in the Hours and Days Following the Crash

Even after getting medical care, you might still be unsure what to do next. Keep following up with your doctors in the days after the crash to get the treatment you need. This care is important for your health and also helps support your claim by showing how the crash affected you. Some serious injuries don’t show up right away because of adrenaline and shock. That’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor about any pain or symptoms as soon as possible.

In the hours and days following the crash, you should contact an Edgar Snyder &Associates car accident attorney before you report the car accident to your insurance company. You must report the accident quickly to protect your right to file a claim. Waiting too long could cost you the compensation you deserve.

‍

Pennsylvania’s Car Accident Laws

Under Pennsylvania car accident laws, drivers must carry at least $15,000 in bodily injury liability insurance. Because these minimums are so low, it is critical that Pennsylvania drivers protect themselves and their loved ones by purchasing Underinsured Motorists’ Coverage through their own insurance carrier.

Pennsylvania uses a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance pays for medical bills after a crash, no matter who caused it. Pennsylvania drivers are required to have coverage for accident-related medical expenses through their own insurance, in a minimum amount of $5,000. This amount can be increased and additional protection, such as lost wages, can be added.

‍

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Pennsylvania?

Generally, injured parties from car accidents have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Pennsylvania’s car accident laws can be confusing. Our attorneys at Edgar Snyder & Associates understand how they work and will fight for the compensation you deserve.

‍

When to Call a Car Accident Lawyer in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh car accidents can derail your life by totaling your vehicle, causing you devastating injuries, placing you out of work, and leaving you with piles of medical bills.Insurance companies are focused on their bottom line, not what's best for you.They may argue about who was at fault or refuse to cooperate, which can delay your claim. If you have serious injuries or the insurance company is offering a lowball settlement, it’s time to call a lawyer who will fight for you.

‍

How Edgar Snyder & Associates Can Help

At Edgar Snyder & Associates, our Pittsburgh car accident lawyers stand up to the insurance company and fight to protect your rights. We investigate the crash, collect evidence, review medical records, and use the law to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our Edgar Snyder & Associates car accident attorneys have a strong track record, fighting for fair compensation for victims of car accidents in the Pittsburgh area since 1982. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, contact our attorneys at Edgar Snyder & Associates for a free consultation.The consultation is free, and there is never a fee unless we get money for you.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

What is my Pittsburgh car accident claim worth?

You should be skeptical of anyone who claims to know the value of your claim in the days and weeks after an accident. Determining the exact value of a Pittsburgh car accident claim is extremely difficult. The ultimate result of any claim involves many factors including the fault of the parties, the amount of available insurance coverage, the nature and permanency of injuries sustained, the amount of lost wages, medical bills, and other damages. While the exact value of your claim cannot be known, our Pittsburgh car accident attorneys will fight to maximize the outcome of your case, for the just compensation you deserve.

‍

What if I am unsure of who caused the Pittsburgh car accident?

It’s completely normal to not remember every detail after a crash. Not knowing who was at fault is understandable. Our Pittsburgh car accident attorneys at Edgar Snyder & Associates will get the police report, examine the scene, gather witnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to determine who was at fault while you focus on what matters most – your recovery.

‍

How long does a Pittsburgh car accident claim usually take?

Every claim is unique, with a different timeline. In some cases, depending on the nature of the injuries and amount of insurance coverage, insurance companies may propose settlement offers within a few months of the crash.  In other claims, the case may require litigation and the filing of a lawsuit. Regardless of the timeline, our Pittsburgh car wreck attorneys at Edgar Snyder & Associates are experienced in handling these claims, and they are prepared to fight for the best outcome of your case.

‍