Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyers

Car Accidents in Pittsburgh

Common Types of Car Accidents

A car accident, also known as a traffic collision or car crash, occurs when two or more vehicles collide, resulting in damage to the vehicles and potentially injuries or fatalities to the people involved. Car accidents can happen for various reasons, and they can range from minor fender benders to severe, life-threatening collisions.

Understanding these types of accidents is crucial as it helps victims and lawyers handle each claim more effectively. Each type of accident can involve different legal strategies and complexities, so knowing what to expect is essential for a successful resolution.

In many instances, victims do not fully realize the extent of their injuries at the scene of the accident. Symptoms like whiplash or soft tissue injuries may appear days later, making it vital to have thorough examinations conducted immediately after an accident, even if injuries seem minor initially.

Here are some common types of car accidents:

• Rear-End Collision: This occurs when one vehicle crashes into the rear of another vehicle. It often happens due to tailgating or a sudden stop by the leading vehicle. Rear-end collisions are typically low-speed accidents but can still result in whiplash injuries.
• Head-On Collision: In a head-on collision, two vehicles collide front bumper to front bumper. These accidents are often severe and can lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities, especially at higher speeds.
• T-Bone (Side-Impact) Collision: A T-bone accident occurs when one vehicle crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a "T" shape. These accidents can result from running red lights or stop signs and often lead to serious injuries, especially when the impact is on the driver or passenger side.
• Sideswipe Collision: A sideswipe collision happens when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other make contact. This type of accident can occur during lane changes or when a driver drifts out of their lane. Sideswipes are usually minor but can lead to loss of vehicle control.
• Single-Vehicle Accident: This type of accident involves only one vehicle and may occur due to factors like driver error, adverse weather conditions, or mechanical failures. Single-vehicle accidents can result in the vehicle colliding with a fixed object, such as a tree or guardrail.
• Multi-Vehicle Pileup: A pileup accident involves three or more vehicles colliding in a chain reaction. These often occur on highways and can lead to extensive damage, injuries, and traffic congestion.
• Rollover Accident: Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle flips over onto its roof or side. SUVs and trucks are more prone to rollovers due to their higher center of gravity. These accidents can be particularly dangerous and result in serious injuries.
• Hit-and-Run Accident: In a hit-and-run accident, one driver leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or offer assistance. Hit-and-runs are illegal and can complicate matters for the injured party trying to seek compensation.
• Pedestrian or Bicycle Accidents: Car accidents can involve pedestrians or bicyclists when a vehicle collides with a person walking or riding a bike. These accidents can be especially severe due to the vulnerability of pedestrians and cyclists.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents are among the most common causes of injury and death in the United States. The sad truth about this fact is that, in many cases, these accidents can be prevented.

Some of the most common causes of car accidents in the United States include the following:

Understanding the root causes of car accidents is key to prevention and can significantly reduce the risks associated with driving. Recognizing patterns and common scenarios leading to accidents allows drivers to adopt safer driving habits.

Another vital aspect is public awareness and education on safe driving practices. Initiatives that promote understanding of the risks, like distracted driving campaigns, play a crucial role in accident prevention and can help drivers make better choices on the road.

• Driver Error: This can include speeding, failing to yield the right of way, impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, or fatigue), and aggressive driving. These preventable behaviors endanger everyone on the road, leading to severe injuries or even death. 
• Drunk Driving:  Unfortunately, many people choose to drive their cars after a night of drinking, which often leads to entirely preventable injury and death, both for the driver and the person with whom they collide.
• Reckless Drivers: Drivers who fail to follow traffic laws put themselves and others at risk. Even if a driver is following the rules of the road, other drivers might not be. You must be aware of your surroundings and practice defensive driving, as the behavior of other drivers cannot be predicted. 
• Mechanical Failure: Mechanical failure can also lead to car accidents. Malfunctioning brakes or tires, poor road maintenance, improperly installed safety equipment, and inadequate vehicle lighting are all mechanical failures that can result in serious injuries or fatalities. 
• Poor Weather and Visibility Conditions: Fog, snow, ice, heavy rain, and strong winds can make driving much more dangerous than when the roads are clear. Always practice caution while driving or walking near a road during bad weather. 
• Distractions:Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio distract drivers and take their focus away from the road, putting lives at risk. Accidents that stem from distracted drivers are tragic as they are entirely preventable. 
• Road Conditions: Another major factor that can contribute to auto accidents. Uneven pavement, potholes, poorly lit roads, inadequate guardrails, and debris on the road can all cause serious accidents. It is essential to be aware of any potential hazards when driving and to take necessary precautions. 

Car Accident Laws in Pennsylvania

Understanding how Pennsylvania handles car accident claims is crucial for anyone injured in a crash. Pennsylvania operates under a “choice no-fault” insurance system, which gives drivers the option to choose between limited tort and full tort coverage when purchasing auto insurance.

Limited Tort Coverage: This option restricts your ability to sue for non-economic damages (like pain and suffering) unless you suffer a “serious injury” as defined by law.

Full Tort Coverage: This allows you to pursue full compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, regardless of injury severity.

Additionally, Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault.

Where Do Crashes Often Happen in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh’s winding hills, bridges, and tunnels make it one of the most unique—and sometimes most challenging—cities to drive in. Accidents frequently occur on major roadways and intersections where congestion, poor visibility, or driver negligence come into play.

Some of the most common crash sites in the Pittsburgh area include:

• Interstate 376 (Parkway East and Parkway West) – especially near the Squirrel Hill Tunnel and Fort Pitt Tunnel
• Route 28 and Route 51 – busy commuter corridors with frequent merging traffic
• The Liberty Bridge and Fort Pitt Bridge – high-traffic bridges with multiple lanes and complex exits
• Downtown Pittsburgh intersections such as Grant Street and Liberty Avenue
• Neighborhood roads in areas like Oakland, Shadyside, and the South Side

Whether your crash occurred on a busy highway or a quiet residential street, Friday & Cox LLC can help you investigate the cause and pursue compensation from the at-fault party.

Recovering Compensation

If another driver’s negligence caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future care costs.
• Lost income: Wages lost while recovering, as well as diminished earning potential.
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property damage: Vehicle repair or replacement.
• Wrongful death damages: For families who lost a loved one due to another driver’s negligence.

Our Pittsburgh car accident attorneys will handle every part of the process—from investigating the crash and negotiating with insurers to litigating in court if necessary. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Car Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Pennsylvania?

The statute of limitations for most car accident lawsuits in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of the crash. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering any compensation.

What should I do immediately after a crash?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, exchange information with the other driver, and contact a lawyer before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Should I talk to the insurance company on my own?

No. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Let your attorney handle all communication to protect your interests.

How much is my car accident case worth?

Every case is different. Your settlement will depend on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, fault allocation, and available insurance coverage.

What if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 51% responsible for the crash, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How We Can Help You

When we are on the case, we will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your situation. We have a team of investigators committed to gathering evidence and analyzing the circumstances of auto accidents. As we prepare your legal claim, we will provide guidance and support regarding the legal process. We are prepared to take your claim to court if we cannot settle with the other party.

Our commitment to clients extends beyond just legal proceedings. We take a proactive role in investigating and uncovering every detail surrounding your accident, ensuring no stone is left unturned. This thorough approach helps us identify all responsible parties and devise the most effective strategy to advocate for your rights.

Besides legal representation, we also guide our clients through the healing process by connecting them with vital resources such as medical professionals and financial advisors, ensuring they receive the assistance necessary for recovery.