How to File a Claim After a Collision at a Busy York Intersection

York has a lot of busy intersections, and the intersection of North George and East Market streets is one of the busiest. This area sees a ton of traffic all day long and is a hotspot for accidents caused by careless drivers.

Have you or a family member been injured in an intersection crash? Follow these eight steps to file a claim.

Step 1: Prioritize your safety

After a York car accident, safety should be your first concern. Here’s what you should do.

If you can, move your vehicle safely to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and causing further accidents. Turn your hazard lights on to alert other drivers of the situation.

Check yourself and others in your vehicle for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance.

Even if you feel your injuries are minor, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal injuries, may not display symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. The medical records from these visits can strengthen your claim.

Step 2: Contact law enforcement

If you’ve been in an accident in Pennsylvania that caused injuries, death, or significant property damage, you must report it right away per state law. Call the police and tell them you’ve been in an accident. When they arrive, they should:

• Document the crash in an official police report.
• Get statements from you, the other driver(s), and any witnesses.
• Take note of important details like traffic lights, weather, and skid marks.

The police report from the accident will be important when you file your claim. Make sure you get a copy for yourself and your attorney.

Step 3: Gather evidence at the scene

Collect evidence at the scene (if you’re physically able to). Evidence can help strengthen your case. Focus on the following:

• Pictures of the vehicles, damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road signs, and any visible injuries.
• The contact information of any bystanders who saw the accident. Their testimony may help establish fault later.
• Share insurance details and contact information with the other driver(s). However, you should avoid discussing who was at fault for the accident. Stick to the facts only.
• Write down details like the time of day, weather, and traffic flow. These can help provide context for how the crash occurred.

Step 4: Notify your insurance company

Your insurance policy likely requires you to report an accident promptly. Contact your insurer and provide them with the basic details of the crash, including the date, time, and location of the accident, the names and contact info of the other driver(s) involved, and a brief description of what happened.

Remember, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.

Step 5: Document your damages

Document all the ways the accident has affected your life. Keep records of all your medical bills – doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any other treatment related to your injuries. If you missed work due to the accident, collect your pay stubs or other proof of lost income. Obtain repair estimates or receipts for the cost of repairing your vehicle. Document how the accident has affected your daily life, including physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

This helps our attorneys put a value on your losses.

Step 6: Consult a York car accident attorney

Filing a claim after a car accident can be a tough experience, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries. The York car accident attorneys at KBG Injury Law can guide you through the legal process and handle negotiations with insurance companies. Here’s how we can help:

• Our experienced lawyers understand Pennsylvania’s traffic laws and can work to build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence.
• Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but our attorneys can negotiate on your behalf to make sure you secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
• If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we can file a lawsuit and represent you in court, advocating for your best interests and working for a successful outcome to your case.

Step 7: File your claim within Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations

In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing these deadlines could prevent you from recovering any compensation. Our York personal injury lawyers help you file your claim properly and promptly.

Step 8: Negotiate a settlement or prepare for trial

After you file your claim, the insurance company will investigate and may offer a settlement. Before accepting anything, allow our attorneys to review the offer to ensure it covers all of your damages. If the offer is insufficient, we can negotiate for a higher amount. If negotiations fail, your case will likely proceed to court.

How can your York car accident attorneys help with my claim?

Busy intersections like North George and East Market streets present unique challenges in car accident cases. Multiple vehicles, heavy traffic, and potential surveillance footage make these cases more complex. Our attorneys can:

• Identify all parties who may be liable, including other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or government entities responsible for road maintenance.
• Collect and preserve important evidence, such as traffic camera footage.
• Advocate for your rights and help you work through Pennsylvania’s legal system with confidence.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident at a busy York intersection, such as North George and East Market streets, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Our dedicated team of car accident attorneys is ready to guide you every step of the way. We can help you gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Please call our offices or submit our contact form today to schedule a free consultation.