An undeniable fact of life is that a car accident can happen to anyone. Even the most seasoned of drivers face the risk of a crash whenever they are behind the wheel. However, the chances of a car accident increase during certain times of the day. Knowing when accidents are likely to occur during the day can help you choose an alternate route or time that might be safer for you and your loved ones. The Philadelphia car accident lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm explain more about car crashes in Pennsylvania and what to do after being involved in an accident.
When and Where Do Most Car Accidents Happen in PA?
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) 2016 Crash Facts and Statistics Report, there were more than 19,000 car crashes were two passenger vehicles were involved. Additionally, more than 1,300 crashes were large truck accidents. Furthermore, more than 14,000 accidents involved a light truck, van, or SUV. These statistics provided by PennDOT provide a better understanding of the dangers associated with car crashes in Pennsylvania.
PennDOT also reported the number of car accidents involving fatalities each month. The number of accidents and deaths are as follows:
From January – March:
- Crashes: More than 30,000
- Fatalities: More than 240
From April – June:
- Crashes: More than 30,000
- Fatalities: More than 290
From July – September:
- Crashes: More than 30,000
- Fatalities: More than 300
From October – December
- Crashes: More than 35,000
- Fatalities: More than 270
According to PennDOT’s 2016 report the areas where most accidents happened include the following:
- State Highways (Interstate): More than 10,500 crashes
- Other Interstate Highways: More than 80,000 crashes
- Turnpike: More than 2,400 crashes
- Local Roads: More than 30,000 accidents
Of all crashes reported, more than 80,000 people were injured and more than 1,000 people were fatally injured.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accident victims can suffer painful, severe injuries during a crash. Some of the most common injuries in car accidents include the following:
Head Injuries
Head injuries can range from mild to severe depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. During a car crash, factors like speed play a significant role in the outcomes of an accident. A substantial blow to the head can cause a person to suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can be life-threatening. Suffering from a head injury not only can debilitate a person but it could render them unable to perform regular, everyday tasks.
Neck Injuries
Neck injuries are common during a car crash. One of the most common injuries associated with car accidents is “whiplash.” Whiplash injuries occur due to a sudden back and forth movement of the head. Common symptoms of whiplash include neck stiffness and pain, tenderness, shoulder pain, dizziness, and more. A whiplash injury can last for a long time and cause a lot of pain and distress to the victim.
Broken Bones
Broken bone injuries are common during car crashes. Bones can break when under a lot of stress and pressure, which is what happens during a car crash. A sudden, strong impact can lead a bone to break, causing painful and severe injuries. Treatment for a torn bone injury can require the use of casts and require surgical intervention. Not only can broken bone injuries be costly but they can also take a long time to heal.
What Can I Do After an Accident?
The very first thing you need to think about after an accident putting yourself out of harm’s way. If you can safely move after an accident, look for a safe place and call the police. Additionally, make sure you receive medical attention to avoid further complications. After receiving medical treatment, reporting the accident to the police, and gathering all relevant information from the other motorist, look for legal assistance to obtain the compensation you may be entitled to receive for your injuries.
Do not accept any settlement from the other motorist or their insurance company without talking to a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer first. Frequently, taking your case to trial can help you recover more damages for your loss of wages, injuries, pain, and suffering
Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers Offering Free Consultations
If you or a loved one was injured during a car accident, you need an experienced and aggressive car accident attorney to hold those parties responsible for your injuries. The Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm can help you get the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. To learn more about your case in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (215) 709-6940.
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