Car Accident in Harrisburg: Knowledge and Rights Explained

What should I do if I get in a car accident in Harrisburg?

First and foremost, after a car accident, it's important to stay safe. Request immediate medical attention if necessary and notify law enforcement about the crash. The police can help you write an official report and exchange driver information. If possible, collect photo evidence of the point of contact, road conditions, and traffic signs, as well as witness statements and other relevant documents.

What is the average settlement for a car accident in Harrisburg?

It's not easy to determine the average settlement amount for a car accident in Harrisburg. That's because settlement information is often kept private. Even when it's public, amounts tend to vary widely according to the unique nature of each accident.

We know it can be tough to put a price on a horrible moment. If you're looking for legal assistance, our attorney directory includes a selection of car accident attorneys in your area who can help you value your case based on your medical expenses, the severity of injuries, the presence of traffic violations, and more.

Is hiring a car accident lawyer in Harrisburg necessary?

It's completely up to you whether you choose to hire a car accident lawyer in Harrisburg. But it's worth noting that accidents can result in expenses, injuries, and paperwork that can be tough to manage alone. If that's the case for you, a car accident lawyer can help you work through the claims process and secure as much support as possible.

How much does a Harrisburg car accident attorney cost?

Personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency basis, which means you'll only pay if you receive compensation. For cases that settle prior to a lawsuit being filed, lawyers generally charge a “pre-suit” fee of 33% of the final settlement amount. Cases involving lawsuits generally carry a “post-suit” fee of 40%.

It's important to discuss fees with your attorney to understand how they will be handled in your specific case.

What does the process of working with a car accident lawyer look like?

Typically, you would start by contacting a car accident lawyer to discuss your case. If your case moves forward, your legal team will start collecting documents and investigating.

Once the medical bills are in, your lawyers will assemble your claim and submit it to the insurance company. Then, they'll negotiate until you're satisfied with the offer. Most cases settle, but if an agreement is not reached, your lawyer may file a lawsuit on your behalf.

How long will it take to investigate a car accident claim in Harrisburg?

The average time it takes for personal injury cases to settle in Harrisburg is 1.5 years, but this can vary based on several factors—including the insurance companies involved, the details of your car accident, and the possibility of a lawsuit.

Some cases settle within a year, while others take multiple years to resolve. A team of lawyers will typically start right away to get your case moving in the right direction.

What happens once my Harrisburg car accident case is settled?

Once your case is settled, any outstanding fees—for your lawyers, your medical care, loans, and beyond—will be deducted from the gross (or total) amount. You'll then receive the remainder. The specifics of this process should be discussed with your attorney to understand how it will work in your case.