Police: Man Flees Traffic Stop, Causing Six-Car Pileup in Harrisburg
A man trying to flee a traffic stop caused a multi-vehicle accident on January 26 in Harrisburg.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, troopers pulled over the driver on 17th Street in Harrisburg and noticed he was trying to hide items as they asked for his ID. When the man refused to leave the vehicle, investigators say the trooper tried to break the window.
The man then reversed his SUV into the police cruiser and drove off, hitting another car on 21st Street and causing a six-vehicle crash. He was taken into custody.
It is not known if anyone was injured in the accident.
Car Accidents in Harrisburg, PA
This incident highlights several critical legal considerations for those involved in multi-vehicle accidents, particularly when they result from police pursuits. According to Pennsylvania law, victims of such crashes may have multiple avenues for seeking compensation for their injuries and property damage.
Victims of multi-vehicle crashes in Harrisburg can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning victims can recover damages even if they were partially at fault, as long as their share of responsibility doesn’t exceed 50%.
Insurance claims in multi-vehicle accidents often become complicated due to the number of parties involved. Pennsylvania’s choice no-fault insurance system means that victims must first seek compensation through their own insurance provider, regardless of who caused the accident. However, those with serious injuries may step outside the no-fault system to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver.
An experienced car accident attorney in Harrisburg can be invaluable in navigating the complex aftermath of a multi-vehicle collision. These legal professionals handle vital aspects of the case while victims focus on their recovery, starting with a thorough investigation of the accident. This includes gathering police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction expert testimony when necessary.
Car accident lawyers also manage all communication with insurance companies, protecting victims from making statements that could harm their claims. They understand insurance adjusters’ tactics to minimize settlements and can skillfully negotiate to ensure fair compensation. Additionally, attorneys can identify all potential sources of compensation, including multiple insurance policies applicable in complex crashes involving several vehicles.
Furthermore, a qualified attorney will ensure that all injury-related damages are properly documented and valued, including future medical expenses and long-term care needs. They can also help victims understand the true value of their claim, taking into account factors such as lost earning capacity, permanent disabilities, and emotional trauma. If negotiations with insurance companies prove unsuccessful, an experienced lawyer can prepare and file a lawsuit, representing the victim’s interests throughout the litigation process.
If you were involved in a car accident in Harrisburg, contact Munley Law today to schedule a free consultation.
Note: Our team of writers uses secondary sources to produce this post, including local and state media and news sources, regional and state police incident reports, social media platforms, and eyewitness accounts about serious accidents in Pennsylvania. For that reason, if you find any information that is not correct, be sure to contact Munley Law as soon as possible so that we can update the post with the most exact information available. A post will be removed upon request. All information in this post is informational and not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.
