New Castle, PA – Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents in Pennsylvania, often resulting in serious injuries and complex insurance claims. The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. (https://www.lgkg.com/what-to-do-after-a-rear-end-collision) discuss the critical steps drivers should take after being rear-ended and explain how fault, compensation, and insurance coverage work under state law.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, rear-end crashes made up nearly 19% of all traffic accidents in the state in 2024, with over 20,000 incidents reported. The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. represent individuals injured in these crashes throughout Lawrence County, Butler County, Allegheny County, and other parts of Western Pennsylvania. “Even a low-speed rear-end collision can result in lasting injuries and financial hardship,” said Lawrence M. Kelly. “Understanding your legal rights early is critical.”

In most cases, the trailing driver is considered at fault in a rear-end crash. But the Pennsylvania car accident attorneys discuss several key exceptions in their legal guide, including situations where the lead driver may be partially responsible or when third parties—such as vehicle manufacturers or government agencies—may be liable due to defective parts or unsafe road conditions.

The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. also explain how the state’s comparative negligence rule impacts compensation. Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 7102, a victim can recover damages if they are 50% or less at fault. However, their total compensation will be reduced by their percentage of responsibility. Victims who are 51% or more at fault cannot recover any damages.

The firm’s guide states, “This 51% bar rule makes proving the other driver’s fault critical to your case.”

Crash victims may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, and future treatment costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The ability to recover certain damages also depends on whether the victim’s insurance policy includes full tort or limited tort coverage.

Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance system allows policyholders to choose between these two coverage types. Those with full tort coverage can pursue claims for pain and suffering regardless of injury severity. Limited tort coverage restricts such claims unless the injuries meet the state’s definition of “serious,” such as permanent disfigurement or loss of bodily function.

The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys discuss several important steps victims should take immediately after a crash. These include checking for injuries, calling 911, moving to safety, exchanging information, documenting the scene, and reporting the crash to police and PennDOT if required. Even in minor collisions, the risk of injuries like whiplash, concussions, and spinal damage is significant.

Victims in Lawrence County often receive emergency treatment at UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle. Those in surrounding areas have access to regional trauma centers like UPMC Mercy and UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh.

Rear-end collisions commonly lead to injuries such as whiplash, back and neck injuries, concussions, and emotional trauma. Many symptoms take time to appear, so prompt medical attention is crucial even if injuries seem minor at first. Documenting medical treatment and expenses also strengthens any future insurance claim or legal action.

The attorneys also discuss how insurance companies handle rear-end crash claims in Pennsylvania. Victims are advised to report the crash promptly to their insurer, avoid making any recorded statements, and not accept early settlement offers before understanding the full extent of their injuries and losses.

Insurance adjusters often aim to resolve claims quickly and for less than their full value. That’s why the firm encourages injured drivers to keep detailed records of all expenses and avoid signing anything before reviewing it with a legal professional.

Some cases require legal representation, especially when injuries are serious, fault is disputed, or the claim involves an uninsured driver or defective vehicle parts. The Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. are experienced in identifying all liable parties and handling complex cases involving chain reaction crashes or third-party claims.

Victims have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524, personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident. Claims involving government entities may require formal notice within just six months. Delays in pursuing legal action can result in lost evidence and missed deadlines.

Rear-end collisions can disrupt lives instantly, causing medical bills, lost income, and long-term physical and emotional harm. The attorneys at Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. discuss how their legal team helps clients pursue full compensation and avoid common pitfalls that can reduce or eliminate recovery.

Anyone injured in a rear-end collision in Western Pennsylvania should consider discussing their case with a legal professional. Early action ensures all legal options remain available and that the injured party has the best chance of receiving fair compensation.

About Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C.:

Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C. is a Pennsylvania law firm serving clients throughout Lawrence County, Butler County, Allegheny County, and nearby communities. The firm represents individuals in personal injury cases, including car accidents and complex injury claims. With decades of experience, the team is committed to helping injured individuals recover the compensation they deserve.

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Email: lmkelly@lgkg.com

Website: https://www.lgkg.com/

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Company Name: Luxenberg Garbett Kelly & George P.C.
Contact Person: Lauren Kelly Gielarowski
Email: Send Email
Phone: (724) 658-8535
Address:315 N Mercer St
City: New Castle
State: Pennsylvania 16101
Country: United States
Website: https://www.lgkg.com/