Keller Swan Injury Attorneys: Helping Car Accident Victims in Multistate of United States
Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of life on the road. According to studies, Americans spend an average of 294 hours behind the wheel each year, with auto insurance industry reports indicating that drivers will be involved in an accident every 17.9 years. This means most people can expect to experience three to four accidents in their lifetime. Car accidents can result in significant injuries, costly medical bills, and long-term impacts on one’s quality of life. Keller Swan Injury Attorneys is here to help individuals in the multistate of the United States recover compensation after a car accident, securing the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Causes of Car Accidents and Types of Injuries
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can happen in any setting and at any time, and they’re often the result of preventable behaviors. Here are some of the most common causes:
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding is a major contributor to car accidents. Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of impact, making collisions far more dangerous.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, such as texting or using in-car systems, is among the leading causes of accidents in the U.S. It takes a driver’s focus off the road, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions, side-swipes, and pedestrian accidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug use impair judgment, slow reaction times, and hinder coordination. Driving under the influence is responsible for a significant portion of fatal accidents.
Inexperienced Drivers
New drivers often lack the skills and experience necessary to respond quickly to unexpected road conditions, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Failing to maintain brakes, tires, and other vehicle components can lead to mechanical failures on the road. Poor maintenance increases the risk of accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions.
These factors, when combined with busy traffic and congested urban areas, result in thousands of car accidents every year in the U.S.
Types of Injuries Commonly Caused by Car Accidents
The impact of a car accident can vary significantly, depending on factors such as speed, the size of vehicles involved, and the location of impact. Here are some common injuries resulting from car accidents:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBIs are caused by a blow to the head, often occurring in high-speed collisions or rollovers. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries requiring long-term care.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, are common in rear-end collisions. These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments and may lead to chronic pain if untreated.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a car accident can cause bones to break or fracture, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs. Fractures often require immobilization or surgery.
Cuts and Lacerations
Shattered glass, metal fragments, and other debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations, which may lead to scarring and infections.
Burns
In severe accidents where fuel ignites, victims can suffer burns. These injuries may require skin grafts and result in permanent disfigurement.
Famous Car Accident Cases in the U.S. Over the Past 10 Years
- Tracy Morgan Collision (2014): Comedian Tracy Morgan was critically injured when a Walmart truck collided with his limousine on the New Jersey Turnpike. The accident led to a $90 million settlement, bringing attention to the dangers of driver fatigue in commercial trucking.
- Kevin Hart Car Accident (2019): Actor Kevin Hart suffered major back injuries in a car accident in California. The case emphasized the importance of proper vehicle safety, as the vintage car he was in lacked modern safety features.
- Largest Cases in 2023 and 2024
- Austin Pile-Up (March 2023): A multi-car accident in Austin, Texas, involving over 20 vehicles resulted in fatalities and severe injuries. It raised discussions on traffic management and emergency response protocols.
- I-95 Crash in Philadelphia (August 2023): A semi-truck collision on the I-95 led to multiple fatalities and extensive injuries, resulting in one of the largest accident settlements of the year.
- Winter Storm Collision in Michigan (February 2024): A pile-up during a snowstorm in Michigan highlighted the importance of road safety measures in adverse weather conditions.
Navigating the Aftermath of a Car Accident and Understanding Compensation
What to Do After a Car Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident, taking the right steps afterward can protect your health and strengthen your potential claim:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical examination ensures that any injuries are documented.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, the surrounding area, and your injuries. These visuals can serve as critical evidence.
- Collect Contact Information: Gather details from the other driver(s), as well as any witnesses.
- Call Law Enforcement: Filing an official police report is crucial, as it provides a formal record of the accident.
- Contact an Attorney: An attorney can help guide you through the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Compensation for Car Accident Victims
Car accident victims may be entitled to compensation for various types of damages, depending on the severity of the accident and resulting injuries:
Medical Expenses
This covers emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and long-term care if needed.
Lost Wages
Compensation for time lost from work during recovery. If the injury affects your ability to work long-term, you may also receive compensation for lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
This category covers emotional trauma and physical pain resulting from the accident. Severe injuries, such as spinal damage or burns, often lead to higher compensation in this category.
Property Damage
Covers repairs or replacement of your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If the injury prevents you from enjoying activities you once participated in, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
Keller Swan Injury Attorneys work diligently to maximize compensation for clients, leveraging extensive legal knowledge and collaboration with expert witnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents
- What should I do if I’m in a car accident?
Immediately call for medical help, document the accident, exchange contact information, and file a police report. Contacting an attorney early on can help protect your rights. - Who pays my medical bills after a car accident?
In states with no-fault insurance, your insurer may cover medical bills. In other states, you may file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. - What damages can I recover?
Common recoverable damages include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Compensation varies based on the accident’s severity and its impact on your life. - Should I hire an attorney for my car accident claim?
Hiring an attorney can greatly increase the chances of a fair settlement, as they can handle negotiations with insurance companies and ensure you’re fully compensated. - How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
Keller Swan Injury Attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. This structure allows clients to seek legal help without upfront fees. - I don’t have car insurance. Who will pay my bills?
If you’re uninsured, you may still file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. Consulting an attorney can help clarify your options. - Who will pay to fix my car?
If the other driver is at fault, their insurance may cover repair costs. In no-fault states, your own insurance may handle it, depending on your policy.
Why Choose Keller Swan Injury Attorneys?
Keller Swan Injury Attorneys have the resources, experience, and reputation to stand up against insurance companies and secure fair compensation for car accident victims across the U.S. With a history of successful case outcomes, we offer:
- Comprehensive Case Preparation: Partnering with accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and other experts to build strong cases.
- Skilled Negotiation and Litigation: Proficient in negotiating settlements and taking cases to trial when needed.
- Proven Results: Our track record includes securing millions in compensation for clients, ensuring they can cover medical treatment, recover lost wages, and achieve justice.
Contact Keller Swan Injury Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Keller Swan Injury Attorneys. With experience representing car accident victims, our team is here to help you secure the compensation you need to recover fully. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us stand by your side.
