Traffic Accidents: An Overview

Everyday, citizens in Pennsylvania are involved in car accidents. In 2017, an average of 351 traffic crashes occurred each day which amounted to about 15 crashes every hour and in that same year there was an average of 1 fatality every 8 hours. Car accidents can be a very tragic event for all of the parties involved. As a result, the injured parties often become both physically and emotionally injured due to the dangerous and traumatic nature of these situations. It is essential for any one involved in a car accident to be aware of their rights and what steps that can be taken in order to alleviate some of the financial, physical, and emotional trauma that has been incurred.

The First Thing to do when you are Involved in an Accident.

It is imperative that the first action the party involved in the accident take is to stop immediately after the accident has occurred. Pennsylvania state law mandates that all parties involved in an accident must stop and remain at the scene of the accident in order to exchange information. In the event that any party involved in the accident does not stop and leaves the scene of the accident, the party may be charged with a hit and run.

When do I have to Call the Police?

Pennsylvania law requires that law enforcement officials must be called in any situation where the car accident results in ANY injury or fatality to any and all parties involved.

What should I do While at the Scene?

  • If you or anyone in your vehicle may be injured, it is imperative to immediately call for medical services in order to prevent any further injury from occurring. In such situations, the injured party should remain in their vehicle until medical assistance arrives.
  • Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Information that is usually exchanged in such accidents involve your name, drivers license number, vehicle identification numbers of the cars involved, the name and addresses of the parties’ insurance companies, and their insurance policy numbers.
  • Gather names, addresses, and telephone numbers of ANY witnesses who observed the accident. These individuals could be vital to your case in proving fault and recovering damages from the party responsible for the accident.
  • Make note of any conditions of the road, type of weather, and other factors that may have caused the accident.
  • If possible, take photographs of the accident scene in order have a better record of what occurred during the accident.
  • Report the crash to your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurance policies have time limits in order to claim no-fault benefits. Once you have reported the accident to your insurance company, they will open an investigation into the matter.

Who should I contact about questions regarding legal issues?

The Law Office of Vincent J. Caputo is ready to help you through this process. Please contact us with any question about your or a loved ones specific car accident. We understand that car accidents can often be a very troubling event for all individuals involved and that is why we will work with you every step of the way in achieving the best possible outcome.