Car Accident Lawyer North Huntingdon

If you’ve been injured in a car crash in North Huntingdon, you need a legal team that understands the local roads—and the complex legal system that follows an accident. At Porta Clark & Ward, our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. As a car accident lawyer in the region, we bring advocacy and care to every case. Your recovery starts with a conversation—call us today at (412) 912-2381 for a free consultation and find out how we can help you move forward.

Understanding Car Insurance and Liability in North Huntingdon

When you’re involved in a car accident, the process of getting compensation for your injuries can be complex, especially in a state like Pennsylvania, where no-fault insurance laws are in place. These laws can significantly impact how car accident claims are handled. Understanding how no-fault insurance works in North Huntingdon is essential for anyone who’s been involved in a car crash.

What Is No-Fault Car Insurance?

No-fault car insurance refers to a system in which each driver’s own insurance company covers their medical expenses and some other costs after an accident, regardless of who caused the crash. This system is designed to reduce the number of lawsuits related to minor car accidents. It’s important to note that Pennsylvania’s no-fault laws do not mean there are no options for legal action. In fact, no-fault insurance primarily impacts how claims are filed, not whether you can pursue a lawsuit.

In North Huntingdon, drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance, which includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PIP coverage is the core element of the no-fault system. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs in the event of a car accident, regardless of who was at fault.

How Does Pennsylvania’s No-Fault System Work?

Pennsylvania operates under a unique system called “modified comparative negligence.” This means that, even though the state is considered a no-fault state, there are exceptions. Under this system, you can still seek compensation for pain and suffering if your injuries meet a certain threshold or if the accident meets specific criteria.

Here’s a breakdown of how the system works:

PIP Coverage: The first line of defense after an accident is the PIP insurance that comes with your policy. PIP will cover things like medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost wages, typically up to a set amount. It’s important to review your policy to know exactly what’s covered and the limits of your coverage.
Threshold for Lawsuits: If you suffer a serious injury, such as a broken bone, permanent disfigurement, or significant scarring, you may be able to step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the driver at fault. This is known as the “serious injury” threshold. Without meeting this threshold, you’re limited to claiming damages through your PIP coverage.
Choice of Coverage: When you purchase car insurance in Pennsylvania, you have the option to choose between full tort and limited tort coverage. Full tort coverage allows you to pursue any damages, including pain and suffering, regardless of the severity of your injuries. Limited tort, on the other hand, limits your ability to claim non-economic damages unless your injuries meet the serious injury threshold.

Why Does No-Fault Insurance Exist?

The primary goal of no-fault insurance is to streamline the claims process. The idea is that it reduces the need for lengthy legal battles over minor accidents and ensures that people receive compensation more quickly for medical expenses and lost wages. It also aims to reduce the burden on the courts by handling the majority of claims through the insurance companies, rather than through lawsuits.

While the no-fault system works well in many cases, it can also create challenges for people who suffer serious injuries or those who feel they need additional compensation beyond their PIP coverage. In these cases, navigating the legal landscape can be tricky, and understanding the limitations of your policy is critical.

What Happens If You’re Injured in a Car Accident?

If you’re involved in a car accident in North Huntingdon, the steps you take immediately after the incident can affect your ability to recover compensation. Here’s a basic overview of what to do:

Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage may not appear immediately after an accident but can cause significant issues in the days or weeks that follow.
Report the Accident: Always report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries involved. A police report is an essential piece of evidence that can help you prove the facts of the case.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. They will help guide you through the process of filing a claim under your PIP coverage.
Keep Detailed Records: Keep track of all medical treatments, expenses, and lost wages resulting from the accident. Documentation will be crucial if you need to pursue additional compensation.
Consult an Attorney: If your injuries are serious or if you are having trouble dealing with the insurance company, it’s a good idea to consult a car accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options, whether you are limited by the no-fault system or whether you may be able to seek compensation beyond your PIP coverage.

What If I Want to Sue the Other Driver?

As mentioned earlier, Pennsylvania allows you to sue for additional damages if your injuries are serious enough to meet the threshold. But even if you qualify, it’s important to understand that the no-fault system can still impact your case. For example, even if you pursue a lawsuit, your own insurance company may still be involved in covering some of your medical expenses under PIP. Any settlement or award you receive in a lawsuit may then be offset by the PIP benefits you’ve already received.

The decision to sue another driver is not one to take lightly. It involves not only determining whether you meet the serious injury threshold but also understanding how much compensation you may be entitled to under the law. An attorney can help you navigate these complicated decisions.

Why Work With a Car Accident Lawyer?

Navigating the complexities of Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system can be difficult, especially if you’re dealing with a serious injury. That’s why having a skilled car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. An experienced attorney can help you:

Understand the full extent of your insurance coverage and how to use it
Identify whether your injuries meet the serious injury threshold and if you can pursue additional damages
Handle communication with the insurance company to avoid mistakes that could harm your claim
Represent you in court if you need to file a lawsuit against the responsible party

Recover with Confidence: Your Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in North Huntingdon

When a car accident turns your life upside down, you shouldn’t have to face the legal aftermath alone. At Porta Clark & Ward, we know how overwhelming this time can be—and we’re here to shoulder the burden so you can focus on healing. Our dedicated team will fight tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t wait to take the next step toward justice. Call (412) 912-2381 today for your free consultation with a trusted North Huntingdon car accident lawyer.