Shoulder of the Road, Center of the Law: Navigating Legal Complexities After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we understand that car accidents can occur in the most unexpected situations, including when a vehicle is pulled over on the shoulder of the road. It’s a scenario that might seem uncommon, but it is one that carries significant legal and safety considerations.Shoulder of the Road Center of the Law Navigating Legal Complexities After a Car Accident in Pennsylvania

When a vehicle is stationary on the shoulder of a road, it is generally perceived as being in a safe spot, away from the moving traffic. However, this can sometimes lead to a false sense of security. Various factors contribute to the risk of accidents in such situations, including the speed of passing vehicles, the reasons for stopping, visibility conditions, and the actions of the stopped driver.

In Pennsylvania, as in many states, the law requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching a stationary vehicle on the side of the road. This is particularly pertinent for emergency vehicles, but it also applies to any vehicle that is pulled over with hazard lights activated. Despite these laws, accidents still occur, leading to potential personal injury claims and legal disputes.

Professionalism is the Word

I highly Recommend Gibson & Perkins.  I have used their services for approximately 6 years now and been through a few cases together with very positive outcomes.  Personally, I have used Paul Fellman and Walter Timby on those occasions.  Both, as a team & separately these Attorneys were wonderful to work with and easily accessible to reach if I had any questions.  Professionalism is the word that comes to mind to describe the firm, as a whole.  Always completely prepared for any surprises that may pop up during a trial.  They were well versed on all pertinent info pertaining to each case.  As I client, I always felt I was an integral part of the team, not an after-thought, that had to be brought up to speed a half hour before the trial started.  I could not recommend this firm and Mr. Fellman and Mr. Timby any higher.
Maria Twining

Very Satisfied

I hired Paul Fellman after speeking to several different lawyers from different law firms because he was the most sincere. Paul did an excellent job on my landlord tenant issue I had on my rental property. He was there for me from the beginning to the end of the whole ordeal. I was very satisfied and I highly recommend him and his firm.

Alan Cheung

From a legal perspective, determining liability in accidents that occur while a vehicle is pulled over on the shoulder can be complex. Several factors need to be considered, such as whether the parked vehicle was visible enough, whether it was parked out of necessity or negligence, and whether the moving vehicle took reasonable steps to avoid the collision.

If you are involved in such an accident, there are several steps you should follow. Firstly, ensure the safety of all parties involved and call emergency services if required. Document the scene with photos and gather information from witnesses, and notify your insurance company of the incident. However, one of the most critical steps is to consult with a legal attorney who can guide you through the nuances of the situation.

Car accidents while pulled over on the shoulder of the road can lead to complex legal situations. These can involve negotiations with insurance companies, personal injury claims, and sometimes, criminal charges if negligent driving was involved. Each case requires a tailored approach, considering the specific circumstances and legal context.

It’s important to delve deeper into the legal ramifications and considerations of accidents that happen when a vehicle is pulled over on the shoulder of the road in Pennsylvania.

The nuances of such cases often revolve around the concept of negligence. In legal terms, negligence refers to the failure to take reasonable care to avoid causing injury or loss to another person. In the context of roadside accidents, negligence could be on the part of the driver who was moving, the person who parked on the shoulder, or even a third party.

For instance, if a vehicle is parked on the shoulder without sufficient visibility or warning to oncoming traffic, the driver of the parked vehicle could be considered negligent. Conversely, if a moving vehicle fails to observe the “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to slow down or change lanes when approaching stationary vehicles on the side of the road, that driver may be found negligent.

The impact of such accidents can extend beyond the immediate physical damages and injuries. Victims may face long-term consequences, including medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional distress. In severe cases, there may be permanent disability or even wrongful death implications. It is also worth noting the potential for criminal charges in certain situations. If a driver’s actions were not only negligent but also reckless or violated specific traffic laws, they might face criminal prosecution in addition to civil liability. 

At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we focus on providing comprehensive legal assistance to individuals involved in car accidents in Pennsylvania, especially those that occur while a vehicle is pulled over on the shoulder of the road. Our experienced legal team understands the complexities and nuances of these cases and is well-equipped to navigate the intricate legal landscape to protect your rights and interests.

When you find yourself in such a distressing situation, our firm stands ready to assist you from the moment of the incident through to the resolution of your case. We begin by conducting a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering all pertinent information and evidence. This includes collecting police reports, interviewing witnesses, analyzing road and weather conditions at the time of the accident, and, if necessary, consulting with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong foundation for your case.

Understanding the legal implications of your accident is paramount. In Pennsylvania, the laws surrounding roadside accidents can be complex, particularly when it comes to establishing fault and negligence. Our attorneys are adept at dissecting these legal principles and will apply their knowledge to advocate effectively on your behalf. Whether the other party violated the “Move Over” law, or there were other factors contributing to the incident, we will meticulously examine every detail to ensure your legal rights are upheld.

Negotiating with insurance companies is another critical aspect where Gibson & Perkins, PC excels. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize the compensation paid out in accident claims. Our attorneys possess the negotiation skills and legal acumen necessary to counter these tactics and strive to secure the maximum compensation possible for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

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Should your case require litigation, you can rest assured that our legal team is equally adept in the courtroom. With a robust track record of successful trial advocacy, our attorneys are prepared to present your case compellingly before a judge or jury, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and understood clearly.

Contact Us for Help After a Car Accident

At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we understand that the aftermath of a car accident can be an overwhelming and challenging time. Beyond the legal complexities, you may be dealing with physical injuries, emotional stress, and financial burdens. Our commitment to our clients goes beyond legal representation; we aim to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process, helping to alleviate the pressures you face and facilitating your journey towards recovery and resolution.

If you are involved in a car accident while pulled over on the shoulder of the road in Pennsylvania, Gibson & Perkins, PC can offer you the legal experience and support necessary to navigate the aftermath effectively. With our detailed investigative processes, deep understanding of state laws, skilled negotiation, and strong courtroom representation, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case while ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.

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