If you were hurt in a car accident in Philadelphia, PA, you have the right to speak with an independent, licensed attorney before you sign anything or talk to the other driver's insurance company. After the Crash is a free service that connects crash victims with local car accident lawyers who can review what happened and explain your options.
You do not need to figure this out alone. Whether your crash happened on I-95, the Schuylkill Expressway, or a side street in South Philly, the steps that follow a serious collision move fast — and the decisions you make early can affect your ability to recover damages later.
What does a Philadelphia car accident lawyer actually do?
A local car accident attorney handles the legal and insurance side of your claim so you can focus on recovering. That includes gathering evidence, communicating with insurers, and building a picture of what your injuries and losses are worth — without making promises about what any outcome will be.
Attorneys connected through After the Crash typically handle matters such as:
- Bodily injury claims — medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Property damage disputes when an insurer undervalues your vehicle
- Insurance bad-faith situations where a valid claim is being delayed or denied
- Fault disputes in crashes involving multiple drivers or unclear liability
Every crash is different. An attorney can review the specifics of your situation and tell you which of these apply.
How does Pennsylvania's fault system affect my claim?
Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative-fault system, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are found partly responsible for the crash. Generally, if your share of fault exceeds a certain threshold, you may be barred from recovering — but an attorney can confirm exactly how the rules apply to your case.
Pennsylvania is also a choice no-fault state, meaning drivers select either limited or full tort coverage when they buy insurance. Which option you chose affects what you can claim and against whom. This is one of the first things a Philadelphia car accident lawyer will want to know about your policy.
How long do I have to file a claim in Philadelphia, PA?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing that deadline typically means losing the right to sue entirely, regardless of how strong the case might be.
Two years sounds like a long time, but evidence disappears quickly. Surveillance footage gets overwritten, witnesses forget details, and physical evidence at the scene is gone within days. Acting sooner gives an attorney more to work with.
What does it cost to talk to a car accident attorney?
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing upfront and no attorney fee unless they recover money for you. Initial consultations are typically free as well. After the Crash charges you nothing to connect you with an attorney — ever.
Before signing any agreement with an attorney, ask them to explain their fee structure clearly. A straightforward attorney will walk you through exactly how fees and costs work before you commit to anything.
What should I do right now if I was in a crash in Philadelphia?
The single most important step after a Philadelphia crash is to get medical attention, even if you feel only mildly hurt. Many serious injuries — soft tissue damage, concussions, internal trauma — do not show full symptoms for hours or days. A gap in medical treatment is one of the most common reasons insurers reduce or deny injury claims.
A few other steps that tend to matter in many cases:
- Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer before speaking with an attorney. You are generally not required to, and what you say can be used to limit your claim.
- Preserve everything — photos of the scene, the police report number, contact information for witnesses, and any communications from insurers.
- Keep a record of every medical visit, prescription, and day you missed work because of the crash.
An attorney can advise you on what specifically applies to your situation once they review the facts.
Frequently asked questions
Does After the Crash represent me in my case?
No. After the Crash is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. We connect people hurt in Philadelphia car accidents with independent, licensed attorneys who can review their case for free.
What if the accident was partly my fault?
Pennsylvania's comparative-fault rules may still allow you to recover, depending on your share of responsibility. An attorney can review the facts and explain how fault allocation could affect your specific claim.
How long does a car accident claim take in PA?
Timelines vary widely based on injury severity, insurer cooperation, and whether a lawsuit is filed. Many claims resolve in months; others take longer. An attorney familiar with Philadelphia, PA cases can give you a realistic picture.
If you were injured in a crash in Philadelphia, PA, you can start right now. Request a free case review through After the Crash and get connected with a local Philadelphia car accident lawyer who can review your situation at no cost and with no obligation.