Can I Sue for Diminished Value After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

When purchasing automobile insurance in Pennsylvania, many people focus only on the required coverages. One of the most important—yet optional—protections you can add is Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured (UIM) Motorist coverage. Although not mandated by law, UM/UIM coverage is critical to protecting yourself and your family from financial devastation. What is UM/UIM Coverage? UM/UIM coverage applies when you are injured by another driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or carries coverage that is insufficient to fully compensate you for your losses (underinsured). Unfortunately, too many drivers in Pennsylvania either have no coverage or carry only the state minimum limits, which are rarely adequate to cover serious injuries. If you are struck by one of these drivers, your own UM/UIM coverage steps in to provide the compensation you need. Understanding What's at Stake The damages from a serious motor vehicle accident can be enormous: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the long-term impact of permanent injuries. Without strong UM/UIM limits, you may be left without the resources necessary to recover financially from an accident—even if the crash was entirely someone else’s fault. Stacking Coverage Another important option to consider is *stacking* your UM/UIM coverage. In Pennsylvania, stacking allows you to combine the coverage limits of multiple vehicles insured on the same policy or across multiple household policies. For example, if you have two or more vehicles, stacking can significantly increase the amount of coverage available to you after a serious accident. This added protection can make all the difference when damages exceed the limits of a single policy. At Gaydos Law, P.C., we understand firsthand the devastating consequences that inadequate coverage can bring. We strongly advise our clients to carry high UM/UIM limits—and to consider stacking—to ensure they are fully protected. This is an investment in your own peace of mind and financial security. Do not wait until after a serious accident to learn that your insurance coverage is inadequate. Let Us Help You Understand Your Options If you have questions about your auto insurance policy, stacking options, or need legal assistance after an accident, contact Gaydos Law, P.C. today. We are here to help you understand your coverage and protect your rights. Call us at 412-678-7900 or visit our website at www.gaydoslaw.com to schedule a consultation. Protect yourself, protect your family—make sure you have adequate and stacked UM/UIM coverage.

Going through a divorce is never easy. Whether the decision was mutual or one-sided, ending a marriage brings legal, financial, and emotional challenges. In Pennsylvania, the divorce process involves more than just filing paperwork. From dividing assets to determining custody and support, there are a number of steps and requirements that can affect the outcome of your case. This article is not legal advice. Divorce laws can be complex, and each situation is different. If you’re considering divorce in Allegheny County or the surrounding areas, the family law team at Gaydos Law can help you understand your rights and guide you through each step. Types of Divorce in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania recognizes several types of divorce, and which one applies to you depends on your situation. No-fault divorce is the most common route. It can be mutual, where both spouses agree the marriage is over, or unilateral, where one spouse wants the divorce and the other does not. In mutual consent cases, both parties sign affidavits confirming the relationship is irretrievably broken and the court can grant a divorce after a waiting period. In contested no-fault cases, one spouse can file for divorce after a one-year separation. You don’t need the other spouse’s permission, but you will need to prove that the marriage is beyond repair. Fault-based divorce is less common but still available. Grounds for fault include adultery, abandonment, cruelty, bigamy, or imprisonment. Fault divorces can affect property distribution in some cases, but they often involve more litigation and higher emotional stress. Property Division in Pennsylvania Divorces Pennsylvania uses an equitable distribution model, which means marital property is divided fairly but not always equally. Marital property includes most assets acquired during the marriage, such as income, homes, vehicles, retirement accounts, and debts. Separate property—like gifts or inheritances received by one spouse—may not be subject to division if kept separate. The court considers many factors when dividing property, including: The length of the marriage Each spouse’s income and earning potential Contributions to the household, including as a homemaker Standard of living established during the marriage Any prenuptial agreements Equitable does not always mean a fifty-fifty split. One spouse may receive a larger portion of the assets depending on their needs, contributions, or future financial outlook. If you and your spouse can agree on how to divide your property, you can avoid court involvement and settle things through a written agreement. This can reduce legal fees, stress, and delays. Gaydos Law helps clients negotiate and draft clear, enforceable property settlement agreements that reflect their priorities. Spousal Support and Alimony In some cases, one spouse may be required to provide financial support to the other. Pennsylvania recognizes several types of support: Spousal support may be available before the divorce is finalized, especially if one spouse earns significantly more than the other. Alimony pendente lite is temporary financial support meant to keep both parties on equal footing during the divorce process. Alimony after divorce may be awarded based on financial need and the ability of each spouse to support themselves. It’s not automatic and depends on several factors, such as age, health, work history, and the standard of living during the marriage. The court will decide the amount and duration of support if the parties can’t agree. In some cases, support can be modified or terminated if circumstances change. Child Custody and Support in Divorce Cases If you have children, the divorce process will also include decisions about custody and support. Pennsylvania courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. This includes evaluating each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving environment, their involvement in the child’s life, and their willingness to cooperate with the other parent. There are two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody refers to decision-making authority, while physical custody refers to where the child lives. Both can be shared or awarded to one parent, depending on the circumstances. Child support is calculated using state guidelines that consider both parents’ incomes, custody arrangements, and the needs of the child. The goal is to make sure the child receives the financial support they need, regardless of which parent has primary custody. Gaydos Law works with parents to navigate custody and support issues with compassion and clarity. Whether you're seeking a cooperative agreement or responding to a contested situation, their team can help protect your rights and your relationship with your children. How Long Does a Divorce Take in Pennsylvania The length of a divorce case depends on whether the case is contested and how quickly both sides can reach an agreement. In mutual consent divorces, the process can be completed in a few months. In contested cases involving disputes over property, support, or custody, it may take a year or longer. There is a mandatory ninety-day waiting period in mutual consent divorces. In contested no-fault cases, the spouse requesting divorce must wait one year from the date of separation before the court can proceed. Delays can also arise from missing paperwork, court backlogs, or unresolved disagreements. Working with an attorney can help ensure that forms are filed correctly and that your interests are represented at every step. Should You Work With a Divorce Attorney Divorce can affect your finances, your family, and your future. Even in cases where both spouses agree on most issues, it’s smart to have legal representation. A divorce attorney can help you: Understand your rights under Pennsylvania law Protect your interests in property and custody matters Draft and review legal agreements Advocate for a fair outcome during negotiations or court hearings At Gaydos Law, the family law team has handled hundreds of divorces across Allegheny County and the surrounding areas. They understand that every situation is different and provide personalized support based on your goals and needs. Starting the Process If you’re considering divorce, the first step is to schedule a consultation. You don’t need to have everything figured out. A consultation can help you understand what to expect, what documents to gather, and what options are available. You may want to bring information about your finances, assets, and any current custody arrangements if children are involved. The more organized you are, the more productive that first conversation can be.  Moving Forward With Confidence Divorce marks the end of a chapter, but it’s also the start of a new one. With the right legal guidance, you can move forward with clarity, security, and a plan for the future. Whether your case is straightforward or complicated, you don’t have to face it alone. Gaydos Law serves clients in White Oak, Pittsburgh, and throughout Western Pennsylvania. Their attorneys are experienced, responsive, and committed to helping you through every stage of the divorce process. This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. To speak with a divorce attorney about your situation, contact Gaydos Law to schedule a confidential consultation.

Facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. You may be unsure about your rights, the possible consequences, or how to defend yourself. The process can move quickly, and without the right legal guidance, it’s easy to make decisions that could impact your record, your license, and even your freedom. This article is not legal advice. Each DUI case is different, and outcomes depend on specific facts, circumstances, and prior history. If you're dealing with a DUI in Allegheny County or surrounding areas, the attorneys at Gaydos Law are available to help you understand your situation and explore the best options for your defense. Understanding DUI Laws in Pennsylvania In Pennsylvania, you can be charged with driving under the influence if your blood alcohol content is at or above the legal limit, which is typically point zero eight percent. You can also face DUI charges if you're impaired by drugs, whether prescribed, over-the-counter, or illegal. Pennsylvania has a tiered system for DUI offenses, which considers your blood alcohol level and whether it's your first, second, or third offense. These tiers affect the penalties you could face, including license suspension, fines, mandatory treatment programs, probation, or jail time. The state also has an implied consent law, which means that by driving on Pennsylvania roads, you’ve agreed to take a chemical test if an officer has reasonable grounds to believe you're under the influence. Refusing the test can lead to automatic license suspension and other penalties. The DUI Arrest Process Most DUI cases start with a traffic stop. This might happen because of erratic driving, a traffic violation, or at a sobriety checkpoint. Once stopped, the officer may ask you questions, request your license and registration, and look for signs of impairment such as slurred speech or the smell of alcohol. If the officer suspects impairment, you might be asked to perform field sobriety tests. These are physical tasks meant to evaluate your balance, coordination, and ability to follow instructions. You may also be given a breathalyzer test on the spot or asked to submit to chemical testing at a medical facility or police station. If you're arrested, you’ll be taken into custody, processed, and released either on bail or recognizance depending on the situation. From there, the legal process begins. What Happens After the Arrest After your arrest, you’ll receive a summons for a preliminary hearing. This is your first chance to appear before a judge, who will determine if there is enough evidence to move forward with the case. It’s also a critical opportunity for your attorney to review the charges and potentially challenge the evidence against you. Next, you may be scheduled for a formal arraignment, where you will enter a plea. Depending on the facts of the case, your attorney may pursue a number of strategies at this stage, such as negotiating a plea deal, seeking admission to diversion programs, or preparing for trial. It’s important to have representation throughout the process. DUI laws in Pennsylvania are complex, and prosecutors handle these cases aggressively. An experienced attorney knows how to analyze police reports, challenge improper procedures, and look for ways to minimize the impact on your life. Potential Penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense and any prior DUI convictions. For first-time offenders with a lower blood alcohol level, the penalties might include probation, fines, and mandatory alcohol education. However, higher levels of impairment or repeat offenses can result in jail time, longer license suspensions, ignition interlock requirements, and higher fines. In addition to criminal penalties, there are administrative consequences, such as license suspension through PennDOT. These are separate from the court system and can still occur even if you’re not convicted, especially if you refused chemical testing. A DUI conviction can also affect employment, insurance rates, and your personal reputation. That’s why it’s critical to approach the case with a full understanding of what’s at stake and how to respond. Options for First-Time Offenders Pennsylvania offers an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program, known as ARD, for some first-time DUI offenders. This program allows eligible individuals to avoid a criminal conviction by completing a period of supervision, community service, alcohol education classes, and other requirements. If completed successfully, the charges may be dismissed and your record can eventually be expunged. Not everyone qualifies for ARD, and eligibility depends on factors like your blood alcohol content, whether there was an accident, and whether minors were involved. If you're interested in this program, speak with a DUI attorney who can evaluate your case and file the necessary requests. Common DUI Defenses in Pennsylvania Every case is different, but there are several defenses that can be explored depending on the circumstances. These may include: Challenging the validity of the traffic stop Questioning the accuracy of the breath or blood tests Investigating whether field sobriety tests were conducted properly Identifying procedural errors made by the arresting officer Arguing medical conditions that may have affected the test results An attorney can review all the details of your case to determine what strategies are appropriate. The goal is to ensure that your rights were protected throughout the process and to fight for the best possible outcome. Why Legal Representation Matters in DUI Cases Even if you feel the case against you is strong, you shouldn’t go through the process alone. A DUI conviction can carry long-term consequences that affect many parts of your life. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side helps you understand your rights, options, and the steps you need to take to protect yourself. The team at Gaydos Law includes attorneys with experience on both sides of the courtroom, including former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built. Serving Allegheny County and the greater Pittsburgh area, they provide honest, informed legal support to help clients navigate DUI charges with clarity. Take Action Early One of the most important things you can do after a DUI arrest is to act quickly. Legal deadlines can come up fast, especially with PennDOT's license suspension procedures. The earlier you contact a DUI lawyer, the more time they have to build your defense, preserve evidence, and help you understand what to expect. If you’ve been charged with DUI in Pennsylvania, don’t wait to get answers. Scheduling a consultation with a local attorney can give you the guidance you need to move forward with confidence. This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. To discuss the specifics of your case, contact the DUI attorneys at Gaydos Law for a confidential consultation.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. It’s something every adult in Pennsylvania should consider, especially if you have children, own property, or want to control what happens to your assets after you pass. Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, make your wishes known, and prevent unnecessary stress for your loved ones down the road. This article is not legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and Pennsylvania estate laws have specific requirements that need to be reviewed by a qualified attorney. If you’re in Allegheny County or nearby areas, Gaydos Law provides estate planning services that can help ensure your affairs are in order. What a Will Actually Does A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed when you pass away. It lets you choose who gets what, who will manage your estate, and who will care for your minor children if applicable. Without a will, the court will make these decisions for you based on Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws. In your will, you can name an executor. This is the person who will carry out your instructions, pay any remaining debts or taxes, and ensure your property is distributed properly. You can also designate guardians for your children, which is one of the most important reasons young parents should have a will in place. What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Pennsylvania If you pass away without a will, Pennsylvania’s intestate succession laws will determine how your assets are divided. The state has a specific order for who inherits, starting with your spouse and children. If you have no spouse or children, it moves to parents, siblings, and so on. The process doesn’t take into account personal relationships, intentions, or wishes. Even if you’ve told someone what you want to happen, those conversations hold no legal weight without a written will. It also creates the potential for disputes among family members, especially if the estate is significant or complicated. For blended families, unmarried couples, or individuals with estranged relatives, dying without a will can cause unintended outcomes. A formal estate plan ensures that your voice is heard, even when you’re not there to speak for yourself. How to Know If You Need a Will Most people assume estate planning is only for retirees or people with substantial wealth. But anyone who owns property, has children, or wants to avoid confusion after death should consider having a will. Common signs that you may need one include: You own a home or other real estate You have bank accounts, investments, or retirement funds You have minor children and want to name a guardian You want to leave property to someone outside your immediate family You have specific wishes about funeral arrangements or asset distribution Even if your financial situation seems simple, a will can help clarify your intentions and make the process easier for your loved ones. It doesn’t need to be long or complex, but it should be legally valid under Pennsylvania law. Can You Write Your Own Will in Pennsylvania Technically, Pennsylvania allows handwritten wills, also known as holographic wills, as long as they meet certain criteria. But just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s ideal. Mistakes in wording, missing signatures, or unclear instructions can lead to disputes or make the will invalid. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney helps ensure your will meets all legal requirements and fully reflects your intentions. Gaydos Law regularly helps clients in the Pittsburgh area draft wills, powers of attorney, and other estate documents with clarity and confidence. Other Documents to Consider in Your Estate Plan A complete estate plan goes beyond just a will. Depending on your circumstances, you may want to include: A durable power of attorney to name someone who can handle financial matters if you’re unable to do so A healthcare power of attorney to name someone who can make medical decisions on your behalf A living will or advance healthcare directive to state your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment A trust to manage and distribute assets in a more controlled or tax-efficient manner These documents can help avoid confusion, reduce the burden on your family, and prevent court intervention during difficult times. Every family is different, so it’s worth having a conversation with a legal professional to determine what’s right for your situation. How Often Should You Update Your Will A will is not something you write once and forget about. It’s a living document that should be reviewed periodically, especially after major life changes. Events that may require updates include: Getting married or divorced Having a child or adopting Buying or selling significant property Moving to a new state A death in the family A change in financial circumstances Even if nothing significant has changed, it’s a good idea to review your will every few years to ensure everything is still accurate. An outdated will can be just as problematic as having no will at all. Choosing the Right Executor The executor of your will plays a critical role in handling your estate after you’re gone. This person should be someone you trust, who is organized, responsible, and capable of handling financial tasks. Many people choose a spouse, adult child, or close friend, but you can also name a professional if needed. Make sure you speak with the person ahead of time and confirm that they’re willing to serve. Being an executor is a serious responsibility, and it helps if they understand what the role involves. Your attorney can help explain their duties and provide tools to assist them when the time comes. Avoiding Probate Problems One of the benefits of having a proper estate plan is avoiding unnecessary delays or issues during probate. Probate is the legal process of validating a will and overseeing the distribution of assets. While not always avoidable, a well-drafted will can streamline the process and reduce the chances of disputes or court involvement. Gaydos Law assists families throughout Allegheny County with probate administration and estate matters. Whether you're planning your estate or handling a loved one’s affairs, their team provides guidance to make the legal side of things easier to manage. Start the Conversation Early Thinking about the end of life isn’t easy, but estate planning is really about peace of mind. It’s a way to protect your loved ones, preserve your legacy, and ensure that your affairs are handled the way you want. The sooner you put a plan in place, the more control you have. Gaydos Law offers estate planning services to clients across Western Pennsylvania. Whether you need a simple will or a more comprehensive strategy, their attorneys can help you take the next step. This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. For help creating or reviewing your estate plan, contact Gaydos Law to schedule a consultation .

If you're going through a separation or divorce and have children, child custody is likely one of your biggest concerns. Pennsylvania’s custody laws can be complex, especially when emotions are high and families are adjusting to a new normal. Whether you're trying to create a custody agreement or preparing for court, it's important to understand how custody decisions are made and what your options are. This article is not legal advice. Every situation is different, and custody cases often involve factors that need to be reviewed by a qualified family law attorney. If you're in Allegheny County or the surrounding areas, Gaydos Law helps families navigate these matters and can offer guidance specific to your case. Types of Child Custody in Pennsylvania There are two main types of custody in Pennsylvania: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about your child’s life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical custody refers to where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. Both types of custody can be shared or awarded to one parent. Shared custody means both parents have some level of responsibility and involvement. Sole custody means only one parent has those rights or responsibilities. Courts generally favor arrangements that encourage ongoing involvement from both parents, unless there’s a reason that wouldn’t be in the child’s best interest. How Custody Is Decided in Pennsylvania When parents can’t agree on custody arrangements, the court steps in to make the decision. Judges don’t automatically favor one parent over the other. Instead, they evaluate what’s in the best interest of the child. This is a legal standard that takes many factors into account, including: The child’s relationship with each parent Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment Any history of abuse or neglect The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship with the other The child’s preferences, depending on age and maturity Proximity of the parents’ homes and the logistics of school, work, and care These are just a few of the factors courts consider. Every case is different, and the outcome depends on the specific facts and evidence presented. The Importance of a Custody Agreement Parents are encouraged to work together to create a custody agreement without going to trial. This can save time, reduce stress, and give both sides more control over the outcome. A good custody agreement outlines legal custody, physical custody, a visitation schedule, and how holidays, vacations, and other events will be handled. Once both parties agree, the court must approve the agreement. If it’s found to be in the child’s best interest, it will become a legally binding court order. If circumstances change down the line, either parent can request a modification. Working with an experienced family law attorney during this process can help ensure your agreement is thorough and enforceable. Gaydos Law has helped many families in Allegheny County and beyond develop clear, fair custody arrangements that reflect their child’s needs. What Happens If Custody Is Violated Once a custody order is in place, both parents are expected to follow it. Violating the terms can lead to legal consequences. This may include being held in contempt of court, losing visitation time, or facing other penalties. If you believe the other parent is not following the order, it’s important to document the violations and speak with an attorney. Likewise, if a situation arises where you need to change the terms—such as a move, job change, or concern for the child’s safety—it’s important to request a formal modification rather than take matters into your own hands. The court can review the request and decide whether the change is justified. Temporary Orders and Emergency Custody There are situations where one parent may request temporary or emergency custody. These are often used during the early stages of a separation or when immediate action is needed to protect a child. In these cases, a judge may issue a short-term order that remains in place until a full hearing can be held. To pursue emergency custody, you’ll need to demonstrate that the child is at risk of harm. This is a serious claim and should only be made when truly warranted. Filing false or exaggerated claims can backfire and negatively affect your case. If you believe your child is in danger, contact local authorities and speak with a family law attorney right away. Gaydos Law can help you understand your options and file any necessary emergency paperwork in accordance with Pennsylvania law. Do Grandparents or Third Parties Have Custody Rights in Pennsylvania In some cases, people other than the child’s parents may seek custody. Pennsylvania allows grandparents and certain third parties to request custody or visitation if they meet specific criteria. This usually involves proving that they’ve had a significant role in the child’s life or that the child would suffer harm without their involvement. These cases can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Courts will still apply the best interest standard and may require evidence showing why the child would benefit from continued contact or placement with someone other than a parent. If you're a grandparent or another caregiver seeking custody or visitation, it's important to consult a family law attorney who understands Pennsylvania’s custody statutes. Gaydos Law can help assess your eligibility and walk you through the process. Modifying a Custody Order As children grow and circumstances change, a custody order may need to be adjusted. You can request a modification if there’s been a significant change in circumstances, such as: A parent moving to a new location Changes in the child’s school or medical needs One parent becoming unavailable due to work or health issues Allegations of abuse or neglect The court will review the request and determine whether the proposed change is in the best interest of the child. Keep in mind that the process can take time, and you’ll need to provide evidence to support the request. Having legal representation can help make your case stronger and avoid common mistakes. The attorneys at Gaydos Law know what judges look for and can help present your situation clearly and effectively. Navigating Custody with Legal Help Custody issues can be some of the most stressful and emotional legal matters a family faces. It’s not just about paperwork and court appearances. It’s about your relationship with your child and their well-being. You don’t have to go through it alone. Working with a family law attorney gives you the support and knowledge you need to protect your rights and advocate for your child. Whether you're just starting the process, revisiting an old order, or responding to a sudden change, legal guidance can make a major difference in the outcome. Gaydos Law represents parents in White Oak, Pittsburgh, and throughout Allegheny County. Their team understands the local courts, the laws that apply, and the personal toll these matters can take. If you have questions about child custody, scheduling a consultation is a good first step toward clarity. This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. To speak with an experienced custody attorney, contact Gaydos Law directly.

A car accident can turn a normal day into a chaotic one in seconds. Whether you're on your way home from work or running errands around Allegheny County, the aftermath of a crash can feel overwhelming. Between dealing with injuries, exchanging information, contacting insurance companies, and figuring out what to do next, it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect your ability to recover compensation later. That’s why it helps to understand what steps to take after an accident and how the legal process works if you need to pursue a claim. This guide is not legal advice. For specific guidance about your situation, it's important to speak with an experienced car accident attorney in Allegheny County. Gaydos Law handles personal injury cases throughout the Pittsburgh area and can help you understand your options if you've been involved in a crash. Stay Safe and Notify the Authorities Your first priority should always be safety. If you're able to move, check on your passengers and others involved. If anyone is injured, call emergency services right away. Even in what seems like a minor fender bender, contacting law enforcement is a smart move. A police report provides a written record of the incident, which can become an important part of your case later. It may help to clarify fault and details if there are questions from insurance companies or attorneys. In Pennsylvania, you’re legally required to report an accident if there’s an injury or significant property damage. Failing to report it could cause problems with your insurance claim or lead to legal trouble. In Allegheny County, local police or Pennsylvania State Police will usually respond, depending on where the crash occurred. Document Everything You Can After making sure everyone is safe and help is on the way, try to gather as much information as possible. This includes the name, address, phone number, license plate, and insurance information of the other driver. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information too. Take photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, any skid marks, traffic signs, and your injuries, if applicable. Many people assume the police report will cover all the facts. While helpful, these reports can sometimes miss small details. Your own photos and notes can help fill in those gaps and give your attorney a clearer picture of what happened. Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible It’s not uncommon to feel fine immediately after a collision, especially with the adrenaline rush that comes from a sudden impact. But some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Waiting too long to seek treatment can hurt your health and weaken your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or related to the accident if you delay care. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it's wise to get checked by a doctor. Medical records create a clear link between the accident and your injuries, which can be important if you pursue a personal injury claim later. If you're unsure where to go, your primary care physician, an urgent care clinic, or a hospital can all provide initial evaluations. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly Pennsylvania follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance policy may cover your medical expenses regardless of who caused the crash. However, that doesn’t mean fault is irrelevant. If your injuries are serious enough to qualify for a liability claim, determining who was responsible becomes important. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be honest about what happened, but avoid speculating or accepting blame. If the other driver's insurance company contacts you, it's best to avoid giving a recorded statement until you've spoken with a car accident attorney. Insurers may try to minimize your claim or use your words against you to avoid paying full compensation. Understand Pennsylvania's Comparative Negligence Law Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be more than fifty percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages altogether. Let’s say you’re found twenty percent at fault because you were slightly over the speed limit, but the other driver ran a red light. You might still be able to recover compensation, but it would be reduced by that twenty percent. Understanding how this rule works is key in evaluating the value of your case and what legal options are available. Why You Might Need a Car Accident Attorney in Allegheny County Not every accident requires legal help. But if you've suffered injuries, missed work, or are being blamed for something you didn’t cause, speaking with a car accident lawyer can help protect your interests. An experienced attorney understands how to evaluate medical records, analyze police reports, and communicate with insurance adjusters. They can also help you navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania’s no-fault laws and pursue additional compensation if your injuries meet the state’s serious injury threshold. The team at Gaydos Law has handled thousands of personal injury cases across the Pittsburgh region. Based in White Oak, they serve clients throughout Allegheny County and the surrounding areas. Their focus is on helping people understand their rights and guiding them through what can often be a stressful and complicated process. Keep Track of Expenses and Missed Work If you plan to file a claim, documentation is key. Keep records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, prescription costs, property damage, and any time you’ve missed from work. Your attorney can use these records to help calculate your losses and determine what types of compensation might apply. In Pennsylvania, accident victims may be entitled to damages for medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The specific amount will vary based on the details of your case. Again, it’s important not to assume anything. Every situation is unique, and general information online may not reflect your individual circumstances. Be Mindful of Legal Deadlines Pennsylvania has a statute of limitations that applies to personal injury cases, including car accidents. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in your case being dismissed entirely. While two years may seem like a long time, building a strong case takes time. The sooner you start the process, the better your chances of success. There are also shorter time limits if the claim involves a government vehicle or public agency. This is another reason to consult with a local car accident attorney who knows how the rules apply in Allegheny County and beyond. Let a Legal Team Guide You Through the Process The legal system can be confusing, especially when you're dealing with injuries and trying to get your life back on track. An attorney who focuses on personal injury cases can handle the paperwork, communicate with insurance companies, and help you avoid the pitfalls that could hurt your claim. You're not expected to know everything about the law. That's why it's worth talking to someone who does. Gaydos Law brings more than three decades of experience to personal injury law. Their firm has recovered millions on behalf of clients and remains committed to helping people across Allegheny County who have been injured due to someone else's negligence. Whether you're dealing with a minor collision or a serious injury, it's worth scheduling a consultation to understand your options. This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. To discuss the specifics of your case, contact a licensed attorney at Gaydos Law by visiting their website or calling their White Oak office.

Attorney Michael Potochny represented a Plaintiff that was rear-ended on the Parkway East in Pittsburgh, PA, by a driver the Plaintiff contends was distracted by using a small hand held iPad device while driving. The Plaintiff suffered injuries in this car crash collision that resulted in an injured neck as well as a retinal detachment. Plaintiff had surgery to correct the eye injury that occurred in the accident. Damages that Attorney Potochny presented included pain and suffering connected to the soft tissue neck injury as well as the affects and after effects of the eye surgeries required to correct the damage to the eye. Lost wages were also presented as part of the damages suffered by the Plaintiff. Attorney Potochny also fashioned a claim for Bad Faith against the Plaintiff’s Underinsured Insurance carrier. The negligent driver paid money damages to the Plaintiff and after the case against the Plaintiff’s insurance company was filed and removed to the United States Federal District Court, the entire case settled for one-half of a Million Dollars ($500,000.00) Bring your accident case to Gaydos Law, P.C. We are experienced lawyers that will pursue your case even it requires litigation in State or Federal Court in order for you to receive the resolution you deserve. At Gaydos Law, P.C., you receive the “Attention you Deserve and the Results that you Expect”. Call today 412-678-7900.

Our client drove out of her home driveway and onto the local access road, traveled a mere few hundred yards and was struck by an oncoming vehicle when it crossed the center line and came into her lane. The driver of the vehicle that caused her personal injury had dropped his cell phone on the floor of his vehicle and was looking down for it causing him to cross into her lane culminating in this car wreck. This automobile accident caused our client to suffer life threatening injuries that included a shattered pelvis, fractured legs, destroyed hips, fractures of the shoulder and hands. This head-on collision also caused fractures of nine ribs and compromised lungs. The client was hospitalized for over two months and is completing rehabilitation which has lasted several additional months. This case was valued by the attorneys at Gaydos Law, PC as being worth multiple millions of dollars in settlement value. Unfortunately, the tortfeasor (driver) who struck our client had a minimal policy and no assets from which to recover. The Gaydos Law PC personal injury lawyers examined all of the potential sources of coverage available to the client for her injuries suffered in this car crash. We learned that there were multiple underinsured motorist policies that may have been available to the client including several vehicle insurance policies covering household vehicles that were not connected to the vehicle in the accident. The car accident lawyers at Gaydos Law PC were able to recover the limits on every policy that was available which increased her settlement value recovering from $15,000.00 to a total of $245,000.00, over 16 times of that available from the responsible driver. Our lawyers also compromised the healthcare liens asserted by secondary health insurance putting extra net dollars into our client’s pocket. Unfortunately, bad things can happen because of the negligent behavior of others. Trust the lawyers at Gaydos Law PC to search every avenue to recover the most money possible for your injury. Let us review your case, call Gaydos Law, P.C. at 412-678-7900 or fill out our case form below.

A woman who was in an assisted care facility required transportation to a doctor’s appointment. An ambulance service was called to transport her in a wheelchair van. Our client had difficulty walking because of a variety of factors and utilized a walker to assist her. Our client claimed the driver of the wheelchair van asked her to sit in the cab rather than be secured in the back utilizing the lift to enter the vehicle. She was attempting to climb into the front of the cab and fell backwards fracturing her hip. She had further complications requiring multiple surgeries. We utilized a nationally known transportation expert from New York City, a well-respected physiatrist, and a future care expert in this matter. The case settled at mediation for $1,350,000.00. If you have suffered a serious injury, let the professionals at Gaydos Law, P.C. recover the monies needed to rebuild your life. Call us at 412-678-7900 or fill out our case review form below.