Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyers

Over 110,000 car accidents happen on Pennsylvania roads every year. If you were hurt in a crash, the decisions you make now will shape your recovery. Knowing what to do after a car accident can protect your health and your legal rights.

At Scartelli Olszewski, P.C., we have fought for car accident victims across Northeastern Pennsylvania since 2001. Our results include a $650,000 car accident settlement, a $2.2 million tractor-trailer settlement, and a $1.8 million work truck injury settlement. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Start your free consultation or call 570-346-2600 today for a same-day case review. There is no upfront cost and no fee unless we win.

Here are some reviews from our car accident cases:

” My husband was an attorney in Honesdale and when he needed a really sharp lawyer he called on this firm. When my son-in-law had a vehicular accident that wasn’t his fault I remember my husband telling me about Melissa and her office We contacted her and were impressed by the caring and time they gave us. My husband has passed and I am sure he was sitting on my shoulder being happy with our choice. No question was too small or unimportant to any of the staff.” – Jo Kay

“Scartelli Olsheski, P.C, Attorneys at Law and entire staff are experts in their field of practice. They could win a Gold medal for their Professionalism, and Kindness . Everyone we dealt with in their office: Attorney Melissa Scartelli, Annmarie, Patrick and Tony were very efficient and courteous. My husband and I were in a car accident in February 2024, when a drunk driver rear-ended us. The drunk driver actually fled the scene/drove away, and went down the road causing another car accident. We were injured. Melissa Scartelli,Esq. and fine staff helped us expertly. We highly recommend this law practice, and are grateful for their outstanding representation in this matter.” – Joan Symanski

View all testimonials. 

What to Do After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

The steps you take immediately after a car crash can protect both your health and your legal rights. Insurance companies begin building their defense within hours, and critical evidence can disappear quickly. Taking these steps helps protect you from day one.

1. Call 911 and Get to Safety

Move to a safe location if possible, and call 911 immediately. Request emergency medical services even if your injuries seem minor. Many car accident injuries, including whiplash, soft tissue damage, and internal bleeding, have delayed symptoms that may not appear for hours or days. The car accident police report will document the scene and serve as essential evidence when you file your car accident claim.

2. Document Everything at the Scene

Take photos and video of vehicle damage, debris, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Capture the other vehicle’s license plate, insurance information, and driver details. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information. These details are critical when proving fault in your case.

3. Seek Medical Care Immediately

Visit the emergency room or urgent care the same day as your accident. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal organ injuries are not always immediately apparent. Delaying medical treatment gives insurance companies grounds to claim your injuries were not caused by the accident or are not as serious as you claim.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Give Recorded Statements

Be polite at the scene, but do not apologize or discuss fault with anyone. Insurance adjusters will contact you quickly, often within 24 hours. They are trained to gather statements that reduce your claim. There are several things you should avoid doing after a crash that can hurt your case. Never give a recorded statement without first speaking to an attorney.

5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Pennsylvania law requires you to report accidents to your insurance company promptly. Stick to the basic facts: where, when, and what vehicles were involved. Do not speculate about fault or the extent of your injuries. Understanding how insurance companies try to avoid paying claims can help you avoid costly mistakes.

6. Contact a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer

When should you hire a car accident lawyer? Immediately. Contact our team before speaking with any insurance adjuster. We handle all communication with insurance companies from your first call and work to preserve evidence before it disappears. The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be.

Choosing the right attorney after a car accident makes all the difference in your recovery. At Scartelli Olszewski, we have fought for accident victims throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania for over two decades. See what our clients say about working with us and review our case results.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car collisions cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering trauma. The force of impact in vehicle crashes can damage virtually every part of the body. Understanding the injuries associated with car accidents helps you recognize symptoms that may require medical attention and understand what your claim may be worth.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Even seemingly minor car accidents can cause concussions and traumatic brain injuries. The sudden jolt of a collision can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, resulting in cognitive impairment, memory problems, headaches, and personality changes. Severe brain injuries may require lifelong medical care and prevent victims from returning to work.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The violent forces in car crashes frequently damage the spine. Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and spinal cord damage can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, or complete paralysis. These injuries often require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, and home modifications.

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Rear-end collisions commonly cause whiplash, which occurs when the head is thrown forward and then backward rapidly. While often dismissed as minor, whiplash can cause chronic neck pain, headaches, and limited range of motion that persists for months or years. Soft tissue injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons may not appear on X-rays but can significantly impact daily life.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact of a car crash can break bones throughout the body. Common fractures include broken ribs, arms, legs, wrists, and facial bones. Severe fractures may require surgery, hardware implantation, and months of physical therapy.

Shoulder, Knee, and Joint Injuries

Car accidents frequently damage shoulders, knees, and other joints. These injuries may not seem serious at first but often require surgery and long-term physical therapy. Knee injuries can affect your mobility for years and increase your risk of arthritis. Shoulder injuries from seatbelt impact or bracing for a collision are common and can limit your ability to work.

Internal Injuries

The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding and organ damage that is not visible externally. Internal injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Immediate medical attention after any accident is essential.

Psychological Trauma

Car accident victims often experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and fear of driving. These psychological injuries are compensable under Pennsylvania law and can significantly affect quality of life and the ability to work.

When car accidents take lives, families face devastating loss. We provide compassionate representation for wrongful death claims, pursuing compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and the immeasurable grief of losing a loved one.

No amount of money can undo what happened, but compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, therapy, and modifications needed for permanent disabilities. If you or someone you love was seriously hurt in a car accident, request a free case review or call 570-346-2600 to find out what your claim may be worth.

What Is Your Car Accident Claim Worth?

One of the first questions car accident victims ask is how much their case is worth. The average car accident settlement in Pennsylvania ranges from $20,000 for minor injuries to over $1 million for catastrophic cases. Your car accident compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, the clarity of fault, and whether you elected limited or full tort coverage. Understanding the different types of personal injury damages helps you know what to expect.

What are you entitled to after a car accident in Pennsylvania? Compensation falls into three categories:

Economic Damages (Money You Actually Lost)

These are the dollars-and-cents losses you can prove with bills and pay stubs:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, medical equipment, and all future treatment costs. Understanding how medical expenses factor into your compensation is critical for calculating the full value of your claim.
• Lost Wages: Income you lost while recovering, including sick days, vacation time, and bonuses you would have earned.
• Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from doing your old job or limit how much you can earn in the future, you can recover money for those future losses.
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement, rental car costs, and damaged personal property.

Non-Economic Damages (The Human Cost)

These cover the ways an accident affects your life beyond money:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain you endure.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, nightmares, and other mental health impacts.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When you can no longer do hobbies, sports, or activities you loved before the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: How injuries affect your relationship with your spouse, including companionship and intimacy.

Important: Your ability to recover non-economic damages in Pennsylvania depends on whether you have full tort or limited tort insurance coverage. We explain this critical distinction in detail below.

Punitive Damages (Extra Money to Punish Bad Behavior)

If the other driver did something truly reckless, like driving drunk or going 100 mph, you may be able to get extra money called punitive damages. This is not about paying for your injuries. It is meant to punish the wrongdoer and send a message that dangerous behavior has consequences.

Submit your case for review or call 570-346-2600 to find out how much your case could be worth.

Understanding Pennsylvania Car Accident Law

Pennsylvania car accident laws are different from other states, and these differences directly affect how much money you can recover. Below, we break down the key rules in plain language so you know where you stand.

Pennsylvania’s Choice No-Fault Insurance System

Pennsylvania is a “choice no-fault” state. When you bought car insurance, you chose between two coverage types: limited tort and full tort. You may not remember making this choice, but it can dramatically affect how much money you can recover after an accident.

Full Tort Coverage: You can sue for all damages, including pain and suffering, with no restrictions. This costs about 15% more in premiums but gives you full legal rights after an accident.

Limited Tort Coverage: You save money on premiums, but there is a tradeoff. You can only recover medical bills and lost wages. You cannot get money for pain and suffering unless your injury is “serious” (like a broken bone, permanent scarring, or disability) or unless you qualify for an exception listed below.

Not sure which coverage you have? Check your insurance declarations page or call your insurer. We can also help you figure this out during your free consultation.

Our advice: If you are shopping for car insurance or reviewing your policy, choose full tort. The small monthly savings from limited tort is not worth the risk. One serious accident and you will wish you had full protection.

PIP Coverage (First-Party Benefits): PA PIP covers your medical expenses up to your policy limits regardless of fault. The state minimum is $5,000. If you purchased income loss benefits, PIP pays 80% of your weekly earnings up to your coverage limit. Lost wages coverage is optional and purchased separately.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: What if the other driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your injuries? Your own UM/UIM policy steps in to pay. This coverage protects you when the at-fault driver cannot. Pennsylvania insurers must offer this coverage, though you may have declined it when you bought your policy.

For a detailed explanation of your options, see our guide to auto insurance in Pennsylvania: full tort or limited tort.

Exceptions to Limited Tort

Have limited tort? You may still be able to recover pain and suffering if any of these apply to your situation:

• Serious Injury: Your injuries caused death, permanent disfigurement (like scarring), or seriously affect a body function (like walking, using your arm, or seeing).
• Drunk Driver: If the at-fault driver was convicted of DUI or entered a first-time offender program (ARD), you can recover full damages.
• Uninsured Driver: If the at-fault driver was uninsured, you can pursue full compensation.
• Out-of-State Vehicle: If the at-fault vehicle was registered outside Pennsylvania, limited tort restrictions do not apply.
• Pedestrians and Cyclists: If you were injured as a pedestrian or cyclist, limited tort does not restrict your recovery.
• Children: Minors are not bound by their parents’ limited tort election.

Pennsylvania’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule

What if the accident was partly your fault? Pennsylvania uses a “comparative negligence” rule. Here is how it works:

• You can still get money if you were partly at fault, as long as you were not more than 50% responsible.
• Your payment is reduced by your share of fault. If you were 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you get $80,000.
• If you were 51% or more at fault, you get nothing.

Insurance companies know this rule well. They will try to blame you for the accident, even partially, to reduce what they pay. That is why having a lawyer who can defend against these tactics matters.

Determining how fault is established and defending against comparative negligence arguments is a central part of every car accident case we handle.

Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations (Filing Deadline)

You have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. Miss this deadline by even one day, and you lose your right to any compensation, no matter how strong your case is.

Wrongful death claims also have a two-year deadline from the date of death. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s filing deadlines.

Accidents involving government vehicles or bad road conditions? You only have six months to file a notice of claim. These shorter deadlines make it critical to contact a lawyer quickly.

Bottom line: Do not wait. These deadlines are strict and courts do not make exceptions.

Common Causes and Types of Car Accidents

Most car accidents are caused by preventable driver negligence. Understanding what caused your crash helps identify liable parties and build a strong case.

Leading causes include: texting and driving, cell phone use behind the wheel, speeding, drunk driving accidents, drowsy driving, hazardous weather conditions, running red lights, and defective vehicle parts. Pennsylvania also recognizes dram shop liability, which can hold bars accountable for over-serving customers who cause DUI accidents. Pennsylvania’s hands-free law (Paul Miller’s Law), which took effect in June 2025, now makes it a primary offense to use a handheld device while driving.

We handle all accident types: rear-end collisions, T-bone side-impact crashes, head-on collisions, hit-and-run accidents, multi-vehicle pileups, parking lot accidents, intersection crashes, rollovers, commercial truck accidents, Uber and Lyft accidents, and work-related driving accidents.

Were you a passenger? Many people do not realize they can file a claim if they were injured as a passenger. You are not suing your friend or family member who was driving. You are making a claim against their insurance company. You should not have to pay for medical bills caused by someone else’s accident.

Whatever type of accident you were involved in, get your case reviewed by our team or call 570-346-2600.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Car Accident?

Identifying all parties responsible for your accident is essential for maximizing your compensation. While the at-fault driver is often the primary defendant, other parties may share liability.

The At-Fault Driver

Drivers who cause accidents through negligence, whether speeding, distraction, impairment, or traffic violations, can be held personally liable for damages they cause.

The Vehicle Owner

If the at-fault driver was using someone else’s car, the vehicle owner may also be responsible. This applies when an owner lends their car to someone they knew (or should have known) was a dangerous driver.

Employers

If a driver was on the clock when they hit you, their employer can be held responsible too. This applies to delivery drivers, truck drivers, salespeople driving between appointments, and anyone else doing work-related driving.

Vehicle and Parts Manufacturers

Sometimes the car itself is to blame. If defective brakes, faulty airbags, bad tires, or other vehicle defects caused or worsened your crash, you can sue the manufacturer.

Government Entities

Poorly maintained roads, missing signs, malfunctioning traffic signals, and dangerous highway designs can make government agencies partially liable. Claims against the government require strict notice procedures and shorter deadlines.

Bars and Restaurants

If a drunk driver hit you, the bar or restaurant that kept serving them may also be responsible. Pennsylvania’s dram shop law lets you sue establishments that over-serve visibly intoxicated customers who then cause accidents.

Our attorneys investigate all potential sources of liability to ensure you recover compensation from everyone responsible. Get clarity on your legal options or call 570-346-2600 today.

Why You Need a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer

Insurance companies have one goal: pay you as little as possible. They employ adjusters trained to minimize claims and attorneys experienced in fighting accident victims. You deserve an advocate who knows their tactics and how to counter them.

From your first call, we take over all communication with insurance adjusters, protecting you from statements that could hurt your case. We preserve critical evidence before it disappears, calculate the true value of your claim including future expenses, and prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies track which firms will fight and which will fold. We fight.

At Scartelli Olszewski, we have represented accident victims since 2001. Our attorneys include Melissa A. Scartelli, founder and president; Peter Paul Olszewski, Jr., managing partner; Rachel D. Olszewski, attorney; and Kristin A. Mazzarella, attorney. We are Small Enough to Care, Large Enough to Win.™

You pay nothing unless we win. Meet our attorneys, read client testimonials, or review our case results.

How Insurance Companies Fight Your Claim

Understanding how insurance companies avoid paying claims helps you avoid common traps. Insurers make quick settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries. They request recorded statements looking for anything to reduce your compensation. They hire

medical experts to dispute your injuries and use Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rules to shift blame onto you. They drag out negotiations hoping financial pressure forces you to accept less.

Sometimes insurers cross the line into bad faith, meaning they unreasonably deny valid claims, lie about your policy, or refuse to pay what they owe. When that happens, you can sue them for extra damages beyond your original claim.

Do not face insurance company lawyers alone. Find out if you have a case or call 570-346-2600 today.

Pennsylvania Car Accident Statistics

According to PennDOT, 110,765 traffic crashes occurred in Pennsylvania in 2024, injuring 66,950 people and killing 1,127. That is roughly 303 accidents every day. Speed is the leading cause, contributing to over 23,000 crashes annually. Major highways like I-81, I-80, and I-476 see significant accident volumes, as do congested areas in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and surrounding communities.

Areas We Serve

Our car accident lawyers represent clients throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania from our offices in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.

Our Offices:

• Scranton: 411 Jefferson Ave, Scranton, PA 18510. Phone: (570) 346-2600
• Scranton Personal Injury Attorneys
• Wilkes-Barre: 7 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 (by appointment). Phone: (570) 822-1400
• Wilkes-Barre Car Accident Lawyers

Communities We Serve:

• Lackawanna County: Scranton, Dunmore, Carbondale, Old Forge, Clarks Summit
• Luzerne County: Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Pittston, Kingston, Nanticoke
• Monroe County: Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg, the Poconos
• Additional Counties: Wayne County, Pike County, Susquehanna County, Wyoming County, Columbia County, Northumberland County

If you were injured in a car accident in Northeastern Pennsylvania, contact us for a free case review.

What to Bring to Your Free Consultation

You do not need to be a legal expert before calling us. We do not expect you to know all the details or have everything figured out. Just bring what you have, and we will help you understand your options.

If possible, gather these items before your consultation:

• Police accident report (if available)
• Your insurance policy (or at least your declarations page showing your coverage)
• Medical bills and records related to your injuries
• Photos from the accident scene
• Any letters or emails from insurance companies
• Names and contact information of witnesses

Do not worry if you do not have all of these. We can help you get copies of police reports and medical records. The most important thing is to call us so we can start protecting your rights.

Speak With a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer Today

Every day after a car accident matters. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget details. The statute of limitations clock is running. Insurance companies are building their defense while you focus on recovery. Delay gives them power. Swift action takes it back.

Scartelli Olszewski, P.C. moves immediately to protect your rights. We stop evidence destruction, shut down insurance manipulation, and fight for your full financial recovery.

There is absolutely no risk to call.

• $0 Upfront Costs: We advance all case expenses.
• Free Case Review: A transparent assessment of your claim’s value.
• No Fee Unless We Win: We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Whether your accident happened on I-81, I-80, I-84, I-380, Route 6, or any road in Northeastern Pennsylvania, our car accident lawyers are ready to help. Get guidance on your next steps.

Contact us online or call 570-346-2600 for your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer for a car accident in Pennsylvania?

While not legally required, hiring a car accident lawyer significantly increases your chances of fair compensation. Studies show accident victims with attorneys recover more than those who handle claims alone. If you have significant injuries, disputed fault, or are dealing with an uncooperative insurance company, legal representation is essential.

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

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims against government entities require notice within six months. Learn more about Pennsylvania statutes of limitations.

What is the difference between limited tort and full tort in Pennsylvania?

Full tort coverage allows you to pursue compensation for pain and suffering without restriction. Limited tort restricts pain and suffering recovery unless you meet specific exceptions like serious injury. Learn about Pennsylvania auto insurance options.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. You can recover compensation if your fault does not exceed 50%, but your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

How much is my car accident case worth?

Case value depends on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Request a confidential case review or call 570-346-2600 to discuss your situation.

What does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay $0 out of pocket. Our fee comes out of the settlement or verdict we win for you. If we do not recover money, you owe us nothing.

Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney. Early offers are designed to close your claim before you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages.

How long does a car accident case take in Pennsylvania?

Most car accident cases settle within 6 to 18 months. Simple cases with clear liability may resolve faster, while complex cases involving severe injuries, disputed fault, or multiple parties can take longer. Cases that go to trial typically take 2 years or more.

What should I do if I was hit by an uninsured driver?

If the at-fault driver has no insurance, you can file an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company. Pennsylvania law also lifts limited tort restrictions when the at-fault driver is uninsured, allowing you to pursue full compensation for pain and suffering.

Legally Reviewed by Melissa A. Scartelli, Pennsylvania Bar No. #52441 | Last Reviewed April 2026