FREE CONSULTATION Car Accident Lawyer Bethel Park
If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Bethel Park, the road to recovery can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Porta Clark & Ward, our team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve after a serious accident disrupts your life. As a car accident lawyer in the Bethel Park area, we provide representation with compassionate support. Call us today at (412) 912-2381 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.
What You Should Know If You’re in a Car Accident in Bethel Park
Car accidents are never expected, but they happen every day—even in quiet communities like Bethel Park. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, knowing what to do in the moments and days after an accident can make a major difference in protecting your health, your legal rights, and your financial future.
Check for Injuries and Call for Help
Safety should always come first. If you’re involved in a car accident, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Don’t try to move anyone who appears seriously injured unless they’re in immediate danger (like from a fire).
Even if the accident seems minor and no one appears injured, it’s still important to report the incident. Pennsylvania law requires drivers to report accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. A police report can also serve as key evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action later.
Move to a Safe Location if Possible
If your car is drivable and you’re not seriously injured, move your vehicle to a safe location. Try to get to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot to avoid blocking traffic and reduce the risk of a secondary accident. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
If your vehicle can’t be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives. Getting out in traffic can be dangerous, especially on busy roads.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Once everyone is safe and emergency services are on the way, exchange basic information with the other driver involved. You should collect:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make, model, and color of the vehicle
Be polite and cooperative, but avoid discussing who was at fault. Even a simple apology could be interpreted as admitting liability.
Document the Accident Scene
Use your phone to take photos or videos of the accident scene. Be sure to capture:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs or signals
- Skid marks or debris
- Any visible injuries
Also, make a note of the time, date, weather conditions, and any witness contact information. These details could be important later when reconstructing the accident.
Seek Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine
Not all injuries are immediately visible. Whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue damage can take hours or even days to show symptoms. That’s why it’s a good idea to see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you think you’re okay.
Medical documentation creates a record of your injuries, which can be crucial if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. Delaying treatment can also make it easier for insurance companies to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company to report the accident. Stick to the facts and don’t speculate about fault. Your policy may require you to report the accident promptly, and failing to do so could affect your coverage.
Be cautious if the other driver’s insurer contacts you. You are not required to give a recorded statement, and doing so could hurt your claim. It’s best to speak with a personal injury lawyer before talking to the other party’s insurance adjuster.
Understand Pennsylvania’s Insurance Rules
Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” state. This means drivers can choose between full tort and limited tort insurance coverage. If you have limited tort coverage, your ability to sue for pain and suffering may be restricted unless your injuries meet certain criteria.
A lawyer can help you understand what kind of coverage you have and how it affects your case. They can also determine whether you meet the serious injury threshold required for full compensation.
Contact a Local Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, working with a personal injury lawyer who understands the local laws and courts in Bethel Park can make a significant difference. Legal professionals can help you:
- Gather and preserve evidence
- Handle all communications with insurers
- Determine liability and evaluate damages
- Navigate legal deadlines and procedures
At Porta Clark & Ward, we offer free consultations to help accident victims understand their options. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or long-term pain, our goal is to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Wait to Take Action
Pennsylvania law places a two-year statute of limitations on most personal injury claims. That means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to recover any damages.
Starting the process early allows your legal team to build the strongest possible case. It also helps ensure that evidence and witness memories remain fresh.
Your Bethel Park Car Accident Lawyer Is Just a Call Away
When the unexpected happens on the road, having an advocate by your side can make all the difference. Porta Clark & Ward is proud to stand up for car accident victims in Bethel Park, combining legal guidance with compassionate care to pursue the justice you deserve. Don’t wait to get the answers and support you need—speak with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer today. Call us at (412) 912-2381 for your free consultation, and let us help you move forward with confidence.