Preventing a Car Accident in Erie, PA

Can I Sue My Relative for a Drunk Driving Accident? 

Car accidents in Pennsylvania result in thousands of deaths and injuries each year. During 2019, an average of 343 car crashes was reported each day. Each day, three people died and 209 people were injured in car wrecks statewide. There were 25 fatal car crashes and almost 1,200 injury crashes in Erie during 2019. A car accident in Erie can cause catastrophic injuries and permanent disabilities.

Sadly, most car accidents could be prevented. Dangerous driving decisions are the leading cause of car accidents in Erie, PA.

Common factors that lead to car accidents include:
  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Drunk driving and drugged driving
  • Fatigued or drowsy driving
  • Aggressive driving and road rage
  • Following too closely (tailgating)
  • Failing to yield the right of way
  • Failure to obey traffic laws

Pedestrians, bicyclists, passengers, and other motorists are in danger each time a driver engages in bad driving behaviors. We can decrease the number of deaths and injuries from car wrecks in 2021 by making a conscious effort to avoid driving behaviors that can lead to a tragic car accident in Erie, PA.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Erie, PA?

Unfortunately, you will not be able to prevent all car accidents. While you can control your driving behaviors and decisions, you cannot control what other drivers do behind the wheel of their vehicles. For that reason, it is important to understand the steps to take after a car crash. The steps you take after a car wreck could significantly impact the compensation you receive for your injuries and damages.

Steps to take after an Erie car accident include:
  • Report the accident to law enforcement officials immediately. The easiest and quickest way to report a car crash and request assistance is to call 911.
  • Do not discuss the accident with anyone at the scene except for law enforcement officers. Do not admit fault. Tell the officer what happened, but avoid saying that you were at fault.
  • Seek immediate medical treatment. Even if you feel “fine,” it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible to document symptoms. A delay in medical treatment could be an excuse for the insurance company to question the claim.
  • Avoid providing written or recorded statements to the insurance adjuster or answering questions about the accident until you speak with an Erie car accident lawyer. Insurance adjusters search for evidence the insurance company can use to undervalue or deny your injury claim.
  • Document your financial damages by keeping copies of all receipts, bills, invoices, and other evidence of financial losses related to the accident.
  • Take pictures of your injuries and keep a journal with details about your recovery.

As soon as possible, contact a car accident attorney in Erie. An attorney explains your legal rights, reviews your claim, and offers advice about how you can recover maximum compensation for a car accident claim.

Get Help Now From an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Erie, PA

Call The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066 to schedule your free legal consultation to discuss your car accident claim. Our Erie car accident lawyer fights for the rights of accident victims throughout Erie County.