Red-Light Collisions and Your Rights
Every year, red-light running leads to thousands of crashes nationwide, resulting in significant injuries and property damage. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania and New Jersey are no exception to this scary reality.
If you’ve been hit by a driver who ignored a red light, you may feel overwhelmed by medical bills, car repairs, and lost time from work. Have a conversation with a Bucks County personal injury attorney to fully comprehend your rights and secure the compensation you need to complete the recovery process.
Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance and Filing Claims
First of all, after any serious collision, your safety comes first. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, a thorough medical evaluation is part of protecting yourself. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not be immediately noticeable, but documenting them early can strengthen your claim later.
Also, in Pennsylvania drivers are required to have insurance, and your own policy may play a role in your initial coverage. Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible, even if the other driver is clearly at fault. Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault state, meaning you may either be covered by no-fault benefits or have opted for traditional liability-based coverage. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may cover a portion of your medical expenses initially.
Next, when another driver is clearly at fault, as in the case of running a red light, you can also explore pursuing a claim against an at-fault driver’s liability insurance. This can cover additional costs including one or more of the following.
- Medical expenses beyond what your own insurance covers
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Property damage for vehicle repairs or replacement
- Pain and suffering, when applicable
Should you have high expenses and the other driver lacks sufficient insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help make up the difference. This coverage is optional in Pennsylvania but highly recommended. If you have UM/UIM coverage, it can cover your medical bills and vehicle damage if the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short.
Work with a Bucks County Injury Attorney
Moving through the ins and outs of insurance claims, liability, and compensation after being hit by a red-light runner can be complex, especially if the other driver disputes fault or if insurance companies resist paying the full amount. A Bucks County personal injury attorney can help gather evidence to support your claim, handle communication with insurance companies, and pursue additional compensation if initial offers are insufficient.
Being injured by a red-light runner is stressful, but you do not have to simply agree to any amount offered to you. Instead, seek guidance from a legal professional who can ensure you secure the compensation you need to fully recover physically and financially. An attorney can walk you through every step of the recovery process, advocating for your rights and ensuring you’re not left covering expenses that should be handled by the at-fault party.
Were you hit when another driver blew through a red light? To hold the responsible party accountable, connect with the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Simply call 215-968-6602.
