- You Can Be Sued for a Minor Car Accident
- What Should I Do If I’m Being Sued for a Minor Car Accident?
- How to Know If You’re Being Sued for a Car Accident
- You Should Consider Legal Aid After Being Involved in a Collision
- Begin Your Free Case Review with Berger and Green
Yes, anyone can sue you at any time, whether it’s for a minor car accident or a serious collision, but whether the lawsuit succeeds is a different story.
If someone takes legal action against you after a car accident, you may want to have a car accident lawyer by your side. Your lawyer can do more than defend your rights; they can also pursue damages for your medical bills and other accident-related expenses.
You Can Be Sued for a Minor Car Accident
Someone may sue you after a minor car accident if:
- They don’t have insurance coverage.
- Their damages exceed the liable policy’s limits.
- They are unable to reach an agreeable settlement amount with your carrier.
- They want to recover damages that insurance doesn’t cover, such as pain and suffering.
Some at-fault parties file lawsuits as a form of retaliation, hoping that the other party won’t pursue damages. If you find yourself in this situation, your lawyer can explain your legal options and take action on your behalf.
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Start A Free EvaluationWhat Should I Do If I’m Being Sued for a Minor Car Accident?
If you’re being sued for a minor car accident, you should:
Gather Evidence
If you are able, gather as much information as you can at the accident scene, including contact information for any witnesses, as well as photos and videos of the scene. Other documentation to prove your case may include:
- The police crash report
- Eyewitness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Photos of your vehicle’s damage
- The points of impact on your vehicle
- Your injury-related receipts and invoices
You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s losses if you didn’t cause the collision. Using the information listed above, you can assert your right to damages and build the strongest possible case.
Refrain from Sharing Information Online
Posting about your car accident case online does not help you. Instead, it allows the other party’s lawyers to dispute your case. You should limit what you share via online messages, social media, and other platforms. Keep the details of your case between yourself and your legal team.
Don’t Admit Fault for the Collision
Although Pennsylvania’s a no-fault state, you shouldn’t admit fault for the accident–even if you believe you caused it. After investigating your accident, your lawyer may find that you didn’t cause the collision after all. However, if you’ve already taken responsibility, that statement may be used against you and reduce your chances of receiving compensation.
We know you’re hurting. We can help. Free case evaluations, home and hospital visits.
Contact Us Now For HelpHow to Know If You’re Being Sued for a Car Accident
If the other party tells you they’re going to file a lawsuit, this does not constitute legal action. However, if you are served documents by the Sheriff’s Department outlining the details of the lawsuit, that confirms you are being sued for a car accident.
If you’re not sure, you can check your county clerk’s court records. They can look up your lawsuit.
You need an attorney with the experience and dedication to give your case the care it deserves.
Start A Free EvaluationYou Should Consider Legal Aid After Being Involved in a Collision
Securing legal aid can be a great way to defend your legal rights after a car accident. Your lawyer will:
Manage Your Case on a Contingency-Fee Basis
Many personal injury attorneys manage car accident cases on a contingency-fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront or out of pocket for their help. You only pay their attorney’s fees if they recover compensation for your hardships.
Determine Fault and Liability for Your Accident
After investigating your case, your lawyer will determine fault and liability for your accident. They might even find that you didn’t cause the accident. For instance, suppose you rear-ended another vehicle because your brakes failed. Here, liability may lie with your vehicle’s manufacturer – not with you.
Protect You from the Other Party’s Lawyers
If the other party secures legal representation, their lawyers will pursue damages with every resource they have. This can affect your mental health and jeopardize your financial standing.
When you retain a lawyer from our team, they will protect your legal rights. They will also prevent other parties (like insurance companies) from taking advantage of you.
Pursue Your Accident-Related Damages
As noted, the other party might initiate a lawsuit to prevent you from seeking damages. In addition to protecting your legal rights, your lawyer may pursue compensation for:
- Lost income and other job-related benefits
- Property damage costs
- Pain and suffering
Your lawyer may pursue other accident-related damages than those listed here.
File Your Lawsuit Within the Applicable Deadline
If you suffered harm in a car accident, you can file a lawsuit of your own to recover damages. You generally have two years from the date of your accident to file, per Pa. C.S.A. § 5524. Filing your lawsuit on time protects your right to seek compensation.
We can address all the legal hurdles that may be keeping you from getting a fair settlement.
Speak To An Attorney TodayBegin Your Free Case Review with Berger and Green
You have legal options if someone sues you for a minor car accident. In addition to protecting you from frivolous lawsuits, your lawyer can also pursue the damages you’re owed. To consult with the team at Berger and Green, dial (412) 661-1400. Your first case review is available at no obligation.
