Steps to Filing a Claim When Involved in a Car Accident on Icy Roads

We all know that a car accident can happen at any time, but they tend to be more prevalent during the winter months due to icy roads.  

Just like with any car accident, after being involved in an incident due to slick roads, you need to speak with a car accident lawyer in Philadelphia to file a claim, especially if you suffered injuries. 

Types of Car Accident Claims

Any car accident is a headache. They can cause bodily injury, damage to your car, damage to another car, or damage to another piece of property. 

There are various types of car accident claims. Some accidents are single-car accidents, while others involve other vehicles or even another piece of property. Every insurance policy is different, but most policies cover the following. 

Single Vehicle Accident

Personal injury protection coverage should cover expenses related to accidents involving just your vehicle. This includes injury to yourself and any passengers.

Multi-Vehicle Accident

Most insurance policies include bodily injury liability. The insurance company of the responsible party should help with medical expenses and any lost wages.  

Vehicle Damage

To cover any vehicle damage, your insurance policy must include collision coverage. This should take care of expenses related to repairing your car. However, most policies require you to pay a deductible first.  

Other Vehicle Damage or Property Damage

Property damage liability will be needed to pay for the damage to another vehicle or piece of property such as a traffic sign or a mailbox.  

In the state of Pennsylvania, a $5,000 property damage coverage policy is required. If coverage is not enough, then the party held responsible will need to pay the difference. 

Details Surrounding a Car Accident Claim

Insurance companies will never place the fault on ice or any weather conditions for that matter.  

For example, if you slide off of the road due to icy conditions, you, the driver, is going to be at fault. If another car crashed into you due to icy roads, then that driver is at fault.  

Winter weather conditions can reduce visibility and cause slippery roads. All drivers must take the responsibility to drive slowly in these conditions and keep plenty of space between other cars. Drivers need to adapt to the weather and do whatever they can to avoid an accident. The weather simply cannot be blamed for an accident. 

It is best to avoid driving during severe winter weather. Also, be aware that the early morning and late-night hours make visibility even worse and bridges are more prone to freeze over. 

Filing a Claim with a Car Accident Lawyer

To receive compensation to pay for medical bills, property damage, or any loss of wages, a personal injury claim must be filed. 

For a successful claim, certain steps must be followed after being in a car accident.

- Call the police and any medical services immediately

- Receive proper medical care if needed

- Always make sure to get the names, insurance information, and license plate numbers from any other party involved

- Take photos of the scene and any injuries sustained

- Call your insurance company and alert them of the accident

- Speak with a personal injury attorney for guidance and advice

If you have been involved in a car accident this winter, Edelstein Law Firm has an experienced team of car accident lawyers in Philadelphia that will help you with your claim.