October 3, 2025 | Car Accident
After a serious car accident, many people in Pennsylvania ask the same question: Do I really need a car accident lawyer, and what exactly do they do? The truth is that an experienced attorney does far more than file paperwork.
From protecting your rights to negotiating with insurance companies, a car accident lawyer’s work can determine whether you receive fair compensation or walk away with less than you deserve. This article will look at the key responsibilities of a Pennsylvania car accident lawyer. By understanding their role, you can make an informed decision about whether hiring an attorney is the right move after your accident.
Investigating the Accident
One of the first steps a car accident lawyer takes is conducting a thorough investigation. While police reports provide basic facts, lawyers often dig deeper to build a strong case.
They may:
- Interview witnesses who saw the crash.
- Collect surveillance footage or traffic camera recordings.
- Consult accident reconstruction experts to analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
- Review cellphone records to determine if distracted driving may have played a role.
This investigation is essential because Pennsylvania is a modified comparative negligence state. That means if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages. Even if you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. A lawyer’s ability to gather strong evidence can protect you from unfair blame and maximize your recovery.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often claim to be “on your side,” but their real goal is to minimize payouts.
A lawyer steps in to level the playing field by:
- Handling all communications so you do not accidentally say something that weakens your case.
- Reviewing insurance policy language to identify available coverage.
- Challenging lowball settlement offers with evidence of medical costs, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
- Filing a lawsuit if negotiations fail to produce a fair result.
Without representation, many accident victims in Pennsylvania accept quick settlements that do not cover future expenses. A lawyer ensures the insurer respects both your immediate and long-term financial needs.
Calculating Damages
Another critical task is determining the true value of your claim. This includes more than just medical bills.
A car accident lawyer evaluates:
- Economic damages: medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages: pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Future losses: diminished earning capacity or long-term medical treatment.
By accurately calculating both current and future damages, your lawyer ensures you pursue the full compensation you need to recover and move forward.”
Representing You in Court
While many cases settle before trial, some require litigation. If settlement talks break down, your lawyer will file a lawsuit and represent you in court. This includes drafting pleadings, handling discovery, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury. Having a skilled litigator on your side shows insurers that you are serious, which can often encourage better settlement offers.
Guiding You Through the Legal Process
The aftermath of a car accident is stressful. You may be facing physical pain, financial hardship, and emotional strain. A lawyer not only handles the legal heavy lifting but also guides you step by step. They explain your rights, keep you updated on case progress, and advise you on important decisions such as whether to accept a settlement. This support allows you to focus on recovery while knowing your case is in capable hands.
What to Expect When Working with a Car Accident Lawyer
Here are the general steps you can expect once you hire a lawyer:
- Initial consultation: You share details of the accident, injuries, and insurance coverage.
- Case evaluation: The lawyer determines whether you have a viable claim under Pennsylvania law.
- Investigation and evidence gathering: Witnesses, medical records, and expert opinions are collected.
- Negotiation: The lawyer communicates with insurers to pursue a fair settlement.
- Litigation, if necessary: If the settlement fails, the lawyer files suit and represents you in court.
By following these steps, your lawyer works to secure compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Contact Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC for a Free Consultation
Pennsylvania’s no-fault system and tort options can make car accident cases confusing. Between the modified comparative negligence rule and limited tort restrictions, knowing when and how to pursue damages is not always straightforward. A knowledgeable attorney ensures your claim is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and evidence is preserved.
For more information, contact Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Scranton, Kingston, Berwick, PA, and Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne Counties. We’re here to fight for your rights with trusted, experienced legal support. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Scranton
436 Spruce St Suite 100, Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 714-4878
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Kingston
183 Market St #200, Kingston, PA 18704
(570) 714-4878
Fellerman & Ciarimboli, Law PC Berwick
120 W Front St, Berwick, PA 18603
(570) 714-4878