After an accident in Philadelphia, you have many responsibilities to handle. You may concentrate mainly on your recovery, juggling doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, and your normal daily responsibilities. Also, your injury may have put limitations on your capacity to perform tasks.
As you move through the recovery process, time can quickly pass. Then, you realize you must seek compensation for your injuries and losses. But how do you file an injury claim? Do you need personal injury attorneys in Philadelphia, PA to help you with this?
The Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
Under state law, you can file a personal injury claim for your injuries within two years from the date of the injury. But you may only have six months to do it if the accident was caused by a government agency. This means that you have to act fast. When this deadline expires, you won’t be able to pursue a claim.
Before you file an injury claim with the insurance of the negligent party, your personal injury protection insurance will pay for your medical bills and lost wages. Often, this policy will give coverage worth $10, 000 for these damages. If the cost of your injuries and the lost wages exceed your policy’s maximum limits, you can then file an injury claim with the insurance of the other party.
When to Hire an Attorney
Although two years seem like a long time, you should not wait until the end of this time limit to consult an attorney and start the claim process. Ensure you contact an attorney as soon as possible following the accident. The following are reasons you must hire an attorney right away:
- Minimize the stress related to the claims process. Dealing with an insurance adjuster following an accident can be quite stressful. They could talk to you and get you to admit you contributed to the accident. Also, you may spend a significant amount of time finding or copying medical records and evidence or fitting another conversation with an adjuster into your schedule. A lawyer will take the burden off of your shoulders.
- Collect evidence for you. Often, you must collect substantial evidence to identify the party responsible for the accident. Also, the court will need evidence when determining the percentage of responsibility every party bears. A skilled injury lawyer knows the kind of evidence necessary to strengthen your case and increase your chances of the court ruling in your favor.