Any resident of the Philadelphia area can attest that road conditions can be less than ideal during the winter. Commonly understood hazards while driving can range from slick roadways to poor visibility, but one danger that often gets overlooked is the presence of snow plows on the city’s narrow streets.
Although they are usually equipped with measures to prevent a loss of control, snow plows are bulky, unwieldy machines, even under the best of conditions; add snow, ice, traffic, and any number of unfortunate factors and you end up with a potential destructive force that could potentially claim property and lives. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident caused by a snow plow, The Reiff Law Firm can help you get the justice you deserve. Call us today at (215) 987-2167 and let us fight on your behalf.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
A collision with a large vehicle is enough to leave anyone shaken and distraught. Your first thought when this happens should be for your own physical well-being, or for your passengers’. If you need medical help, seek it. However, if you are physically able, you should try to gather as much information about those involved as possible. Make sure to get the full name and driver’s license number of the other driver, as well as the name and address of the snow plow’s owner. Insurance information is important, too, and should include the name and address of the company along with the policy number.
Since 2010, it has been the general policy of Philadelphia police to not respond to minor traffic accidents. If you were involved in a crash caused by a snow plow where no one was injured and nothing was damaged – aside from the vehicles involved – then do not expect the police to arrive. In this situation, it is all the more important that you collect the necessary information from everyone involved, taking special care to obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
If the police do arrive at the scene, either because they were nearby or because the accident was severe, collect the name and badge number of the officer who responded. Ask that officer when and where you can obtain a copy of the accident report, as it will be important to any future legal proceedings. Even if no police arrive, you should report the accident to the authorities and your insurance company, as you may leave yourself vulnerable to false claims otherwise. If you are unsure whether you have all the information you need, contact a skilled legal representative who can answer your questions and give sound advice.
Suing for an Accident Caused by a Snow Plow in Philadelphia, PA
If you have experienced an injury or loss of property because of an accident caused by a snow plow, you likely have a potential cause of action against any number of people, including the driver, the driver’s employer, and possibly even the municipality where the accident took place. This all depends on the circumstance surrounding the accident.
If the driver was negligent or distracted, they will probably be found at fault in the accident; if they were overworked or undertrained, or if the truck was not properly maintained, the driver’s employer may be held responsible. Similarly, if the road conditions contributed to the accident, the local government may be responsible in part, while a faulty or defective part could lead to penalties for the manufacturer.
In short, the responsible parties can include anyone who had even an indirect role in causing the accident, just as your losses can include indirect or non-economic damages along with clear financial ones. If you have experienced a reduction in your quality of life or the agony of losing a love one, you may be entitled to compensation in addition to the reimbursement of medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Lawsuit Limitations on Vehicle Accident Injury Claims
If you are considering legal action, you should know that the clock starts ticking on the date of the accident. The Keystone State has imposed a statute of limitations on personal injury lawsuits, meaning that almost any lawsuit must be filed within two years of the date of the accident.
Additionally, Pennsylvania uses a principle called “modified comparative negligence” when determining compensation for damages. This rule states that any payment for damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault shouldered by the plaintiff; if your damages add up to $10,000 and you were found to be 20 percent at fault, your payment will be reduced by 20 percent, and you will receive $8,000 in total.
Call Our Team of Philadelphia Snow Plow Accident Lawyers Today
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to recover from an accident caused by a snow plow, you likely face mounting bills and painful injuries. Know that you don’t have to face these challenging circumstances alone, however; the team of Philadelphia car accident attorneys at The Reiff Law Firm has extensive experience dealing with accidents, and we can get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (215) 987-2167 and set up your free consultation.
