Car Accident Lawyer Jefferson Hills

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Jefferson Hills, you need a dedicated advocate who will fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Porta Clark & Ward, our team of car accident lawyers understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a collision can take on your life. We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation tailored to your unique situation. Porta Clark & Ward is here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation at (412) 912-2381, and let us help you get the justice you deserve.

What You Should Know if You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania

If you’re involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you should take. Drunk driving accidents can result in serious injuries and significant property damage. While it’s a traumatic experience, knowing the legal process and having the right information can help you take control of the situation and get the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Drunk Driving in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has strict laws surrounding drunk driving. The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) in the state is 0.08%. Drivers with a BAC at or above this limit are considered impaired and can face criminal charges. However, even if a driver has a BAC lower than 0.08%, they may still be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if their ability to drive is impaired.

In cases where an accident occurs because of a drunk driver, the consequences can be severe. Injuries sustained in these accidents are often more serious due to the impaired judgment and slower reaction times of the at-fault driver. Furthermore, drunk driving accidents can lead to long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial repercussions for victims.

Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident

If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, your first priority should always be your safety and health. Here’s what you should do immediately following the crash:

Call 911: Whether or not the accident seems serious, contact law enforcement. A police officer will investigate the scene, document the details of the crash, and collect evidence. This is crucial if you plan to file a claim or pursue a lawsuit.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor. Injuries from drunk driving accidents, such as whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries, may not be immediately obvious. A medical evaluation ensures that all injuries are documented, which is vital for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Collect Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Obtain the names and contact information of witnesses. Document the drunk driver’s details, including their license plate number and any signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech or a strong smell of alcohol. This evidence can be critical for your case.
Avoid Direct Communication with the Drunk Driver: While it’s tempting to talk to the other driver, avoid making any statements or acknowledging fault. Instead, let law enforcement and your lawyer handle communication. The drunk driver might be experiencing the consequences of their actions and may admit fault, but it’s best not to discuss the matter yourself.

The Legal Process After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver

After a drunk driving accident, you have several options for pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses. The legal process can be complicated, and it’s helpful to have an experienced attorney guiding you. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

Filing a Personal Injury Claim: If you are injured, you may file a personal injury claim with the drunk driver’s insurance company. If the driver was arrested for DUI, the criminal case may also play a role in your civil case. In Pennsylvania, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to sue for damages.
Insurance Claims: In Pennsylvania, the state follows a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that your own insurance may cover some of your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. However, if the drunk driver was responsible for the accident, you can pursue additional compensation through their liability insurance. This is often necessary if your injuries are severe or your expenses exceed the limits of your own coverage.
Proving Liability: In order to succeed in a personal injury claim, you must prove that the drunk driver was at fault. Evidence such as police reports, witness testimonies, and medical records will be used to demonstrate that the driver was impaired and caused the accident. If the driver was arrested for DUI, this can strengthen your case.
DUI Criminal Case: In some cases, the drunk driver may be facing criminal charges for driving under the influence. While the criminal case is separate from your civil case, the outcome can still affect your case. For example, if the driver is convicted of DUI, it can serve as strong evidence of negligence in your personal injury claim. In some instances, the driver’s criminal conviction may also result in punitive damages, which are intended to punish the driver and deter similar behavior in the future.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If you are the victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the severity of the injuries and damages. Some common forms of compensation include:

Medical Expenses: This includes the costs of hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical care required as a result of the accident.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, as well as the loss of future earning potential if the injuries result in permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation covers the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident. This can include pain, mental anguish, and the impact the injuries have on your quality of life.
Property Damage: If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you can seek compensation to repair or replace it.
Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the drunk driver’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the driver and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, especially while you’re recovering from injuries. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can help ease the burden by handling the legal complexities and ensuring your rights are protected. A lawyer can help you:

Gather and present evidence effectively.
Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Pursue a lawsuit if necessary to secure fair compensation.
Handle all legal paperwork and meet important deadlines.

Accident Recovery Starts Here: Your Trusted Car Accident Lawyer

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, having an experienced and reliable legal team by your side can make all the difference. Porta Clark & Ward is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring your best interests are always at the forefront. We understand the challenges you face, and we’re committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait to get the support you need—contact our team of car accident lawyers today for a free consultation at (412) 912-2381, and let us work for you.