Car Accidents Caused By Driver Error in Reading, PA

When you get behind the wheel, you’re not just taking control of a vehicle. You’re assuming responsibility for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Accidents happen, but when they’re caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek justice.

If you’ve been injured due to a driver error in Reading, Pennsylvania, you’re not alone. Navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, especially after an auto accident. You need a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process with expertise and compassion.

At Munley Law, our Reading car accident attorneys can work with you to get you the compensation you need for your recovery. With over 65 years of proven experience in personal injury law, we have what you need to protect your rights at this time. Reach out to our law firm in Reading, PA, for a free consultation today.

The Statistics on Driver Error Car Accidents in Reading, PA

Driver error is a significant factor in many traffic accidents, and Reading, PA, is no exception. In Pennsylvania, traffic fatalities for car accident victims have fluctuated over the years. According to the latest data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Berks County is one of the top counties in the Commonwealth with the most reported traffic accidents. It was also one of Pennsylvania’s top counties with the most traffic fatalities in 2023.

In 2023, there were 4,711 car accidents in Berks County, which makes up about 4.3% of all the traffic accidents in Pennsylvania for that year. The good news is this number is slightly down compared to 2022 and 2021.

When a driver’s negligent or reckless behavior does result in a car accident, it’s essential to have a competent and experienced personal injury attorney in Reading, PA, on your side. Contact our car accident lawyers in Reading today.

How Driver Error Causes Car Accidents in Reading, PA

Unfortunately, poor driving behavior is a leading cause of car accidents, often resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. The following are some common examples of driving negligence that can lead to a catastrophic car accident.

• Distracted Driving: In today’s fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere. Whether it’s a text message, a call, or even a meal on the go, any diversion that takes your attention away from the road can lead to a car accident. Distracted driving has significantly increased in recent years, largely due to the rise of smartphones and in-car technology.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense and a major cause of car accidents. These substances impair your ability to drive safely, affecting your judgment, coordination, and reaction times. If you’re impaired, you’re not only putting your life at risk but also the lives of others on the road.
• Fatigued Driving: Driving while fatigued is considered a form of impaired driving. According to PennDOT, driving after 21 hours without sleep is equivalent to driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08, Pennsylvania’s legal limit.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Speed limits are designed to keep you and other road users safe. Drivers who break the speed limit put themselves and others at greater risk of a serious car accident. The faster a driver speeds going, the less time they have to react to unexpected situations. Reckless driving can include behaviors like tailgating, running red lights, and passing illegally.

If you are a car accident victim, it’s important to seek the help of a Reading, PA, car injury lawyer. Your personal injury lawyer can provide the legal support you need to navigate the aftermath of an accident, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Determining Liability in a Driver Error Injury Case in Reading

Determining liability is one of the most crucial steps when pursuing a personal injury claim for an auto accident in Reading, PA. Pennsylvania operates under a “comparative negligence” system, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for your accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.

Even if you share absolutely no fault in an accident, identifying who is at fault for the accident is often a complex task. While it may seem obvious that the other driver was the at-fault driver in an accident, sometimes additional parties may be involved.

Employer of the At-Fault Driver: If a driver operated a vehicle as part of their job when the accident occurred, their employer could be liable. This is based on a legal principle known as “vicarious liability,” which holds employers responsible for their employees’ actions within the scope of their employment.

Businesses that Served Alcohol to the At-Fault Driver: In some cases, businesses that serve alcohol can be held responsible for car accidents. This is known as “dram shop liability.” If a business serves alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then causes a car accident, that business could be held liable for damages resulting from the accident with the drunk driver.

Vehicle Manufacturers: Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe. If a defect in a vehicle contributed to an accident, the manufacturer could be held liable. This could include anything from faulty brakes to a malfunctioning steering system.

How a Reading, PA Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Reading, PA, due to another driver’s negligence, you might feel overwhelmed. From dealing with injuries to navigating insurance claims, pursuing your due compensation after an auto accident can be stressful. That’s where an auto accident attorney can make a significant difference.

After a truck or car accident, your experienced personal injury lawyer can help you with:

• Legal Advice and Guidance – Your attorney can explain your rights, help you understand the legal process, and answer any questions you have
• Investigation and Evidence Gathering—Your lawyer can thoroughly investigate the accident and gather evidence from police reports, witnesses, and accident reconstruction experts to support your case.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies – A lawyer can handle insurance company negotiations on your behalf, ensuring your interests are represented.
• Representation in Court – If your case goes to court, your attorney can handle all aspects of the trial and present your case in the most compelling way possible.

Remember, if you have suffered from a car accident in Reading, PA, you don’t have to manage everything alone. A truck or car accident lawyer can provide the support and guidance you need, helping you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Munley Law Today

If you’ve been involved in an auto accident due to driver error in Reading, PA, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact one of our personal injury attorneys at Munley Law today. With our expertise and dedication, our legal team can provide the support you need during this challenging time.

With over six decades of experience, our personal injury attorneys at Munley Law have a proven track record of success. Our team of experienced car accident lawyers understands the complexities of these cases. We offer personalized attention, ensuring your unique needs and concerns are being addressed.

The sooner you involve a personal injury lawyer, the better your chances of securing your deserved compensation. Contact one of our Reading personal injury attorneys at Munley Law today for a free, confidential consultation.

Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys

606 Court St.
Reading, PA 19601
(610) 831-4234