Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Scranton

About Personal Injury Law in Scranton, United States

Personal injury law in Scranton, Pennsylvania, revolves around legal disputes that arise when a person suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else might be legally responsible for that harm. Whether it results from a car crash, medical negligence, or slip and fall, personal injury law is designed to protect victims by ensuring they have the right to file a lawsuit to recover damages. In Scranton, as in the rest of Pennsylvania, personal injury cases are typically governed by tort law, which encompasses a wide range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a personal injury lawyer in Scranton can be crucial in various situations. Common reasons include: when injuries from an accident are significant or permanent, when there is dispute over who is at fault, when your insurance company is uncooperative, when multiple parties are involved, or when the legal procedure is complex and requires expert navigation. Lawyers specializing in personal injuries can help in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Local Laws Overview

In Scranton, personal injury laws are shaped by Pennsylvania state law. Several key aspects particularly relevant include:

• Statute of Limitations: Pennsylvania typically allows two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, although there are exceptions depending on the case.
• Comparative Negligence: Pennsylvania follows a "modified comparative negligence" rule, meaning if an injured party is found to be partially at fault, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault, as long as they are not more than 50% at fault.
• No-Fault Insurance: Pennsylvania requires drivers to carry no-fault insurance, meaning their own insurance covers injury costs regardless of fault, with the option to step outside this system for serious injuries.
• Damage Caps: While generally not applicable to compensatory damages, Pennsylvania law caps punitive damages in some circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after an accident in Scranton?

Seek medical attention as a priority. Contact local law enforcement, document the scene with photos, obtain contact information of any witnesses, and report the incident to your insurance company. Consulting with a lawyer soon after is also advisable.

How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

A consultation with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney will help. Typically, if someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may have a legal claim.

Do personal injury claims always lead to a lawsuit?

No, many personal injury claims in Scranton are resolved through settlements without needing to file a lawsuit, often facilitated by negotiation with the involved insurance companies.

What type of compensation can I expect in a personal injury case?

Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some instances, punitive damages may also be awarded if the defendant's actions were especially reckless or malicious.

How will a lawyer charge for a personal injury case?

Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is usually a percentage of your final settlement or court-awarded compensation.

What if I am partly responsible for my accident?

You may still have a case under Pennsylvania's comparative negligence laws, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long will it take to resolve a personal injury case in Scranton?

The timeline varies based on the complexity of your case, but many cases resolve within a few months to a couple of years.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Scranton?

Generally, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of injury, although there are exceptions and different timelines for claims against government entities.

Can I handle a personal injury claim on my own without a lawyer?

While it's possible, it's not advisable. Insurance companies have substantial resources and experience. A lawyer can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Can a personal injury case be reopened after a settlement?

Generally, once a settlement is reached and finalized, it cannot be reopened. This underscores the importance of consulting with a lawyer before settling.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider contacting these resources: The Pennsylvania Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service, the Lackawanna County Courthouse for court-related inquiries, and the local chapters of organizations such as the American Association for Justice provide resources and advocacy for personal injury victims.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance for a personal injury case, start by documenting all evidence related to your injury. Reach out to a competent personal injury attorney in Scranton to discuss your case. Many firms offer free consultations to assess your situation and guide you in pursuing your legal rights effectively. Remember to act swiftly due to the statute of limitations and other time-sensitive factors involved in personal injury claims.