Home / Case Types / Car Accident

Independent resource: PhillyLegalGuide is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Firm listings are for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney about your specific situation.

Car Accident Lawyers in Philadelphia

Car accidents are the leading cause of personal injury claims in Philadelphia. If you were injured in a vehicle accident caused by another driver's negligence — whether on I-95, Route 1, or a local street — you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Pennsylvania Statute of Limitations

Pennsylvania personal injury cases generally have a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of injury. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation entirely. If your accident was recent, don't delay in consulting an attorney.

What to Look for in a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer

Questions to Ask at Your Free Consultation

What to Expect: Timeline and Process

Investigation (1–3 months): Your attorney gathers police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available camera footage.
Demand letter and negotiations (3–6 months): After treatment is complete or you reach maximum medical improvement, your attorney sends a demand to the insurer and begins negotiations.
Filing suit (if needed): If the insurer refuses a fair settlement, your attorney files a lawsuit. Most cases still settle before trial.
Resolution (typically 12–24 months overall): Simple cases can settle in months. Cases involving serious injury, disputed liability, or litigation can take 2+ years.

Pennsylvania-Specific Information

Pennsylvania operates a choice no-fault insurance system. When purchasing auto insurance, drivers choose between "limited tort" (restricts your ability to sue for pain and suffering) and "full tort" (preserves all rights to sue). Most people default to limited tort because it costs less — but it can significantly limit your recovery.

The 2-year statute of limitations applies to car accident claims in Pennsylvania (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Exceptions exist for minors (clock doesn't start until age 18) and cases involving government vehicles (special notice requirements may apply within 6 months).

Philadelphia is also subject to comparative negligence rules: if you were partly at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. You can still recover if you were less than 51% responsible.

Philadelphia Firms That Handle Car Accident Cases

Rosenbaum Injury Law

35+ years in business

Philadelphia personal injury firm with 35+ years handling accident and injury cases.

Free ConsultationNo Win, No Fee

The Levin Firm

20+ years in business

Philadelphia personal injury attorneys handling accident and negligence cases.

Free ConsultationNo Win, No Fee

Philadelphia Injury Lawyers P.C.

10+ years in business

Philadelphia personal injury firm handling a wide range of accident and negligence cases.

Free ConsultationNo Win, No Fee

Not sure car accident is your case type?

Take our 2-minute quiz and we'll identify it for you.

Take the Quiz →

Frequently Asked Questions