Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
If you've been injured in Wilkes-Barre due to someone else's negligence, you need a local attorney who understands the unique aspects of pursuing personal injury claims in Luzerne County. Our experienced Wilkes-Barre personal injury lawyers have a proven track record of success representing accident victims throughout the Wyoming Valley region.
After an accident, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and significant pain and suffering. Insurance companies often try to minimize your claim or deny it entirely. That's why having a skilled personal injury attorney on your side is crucial to securing the full compensation you deserve.
From our office in downtown Wilkes-Barre, we provide comprehensive legal services to injury victims throughout Luzerne County. With decades of combined experience and millions recovered for our clients, we have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Our Wilkes-Barre Office
Address: 220 S River St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705
Phone: 1-877-888-4777
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Email: [email protected]
Free Case Evaluation
Why Accident Victims in Wilkes-Barre Choose Our Firm
- Local Knowledge: We understand Wilkes-Barre's courts, local laws, and insurance practices, giving your case a significant advantage.
- Proven Results: Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for accident victims throughout Luzerne County and northeastern Pennsylvania.
- No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
- Personal Attention: Unlike large firms where you're just a case number, you'll have direct access to your attorney throughout your case.
- 24/7 Availability: Accidents don't happen on a schedule, and neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to assist you.
- Comprehensive Support: We help with all aspects of your recovery, including medical care coordination, insurance issues, and property damage claims.
- Trial Experience: While many cases settle, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to secure fair compensation.
- Community Commitment: As longtime members of the Wilkes-Barre community, we're dedicated to serving our neighbors when they need us most.
"After my car accident on I-81 near Wilkes-Barre, I was severely injured and couldn't work. The insurance company offered a settlement that wouldn't even cover my medical bills. The attorneys at PA Attorney Source fought hard for me and secured a settlement that was five times the initial offer. I can now focus on my recovery without financial stress."
- Michael T., Wilkes-Barre, PA
Personal Injury Cases We Handle in Wilkes-Barre
Our Wilkes-Barre personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling a wide range of accident and injury cases throughout Luzerne County, including:
Car Accidents
Wilkes-Barre's busy roads like Interstate 81, Route 309, and the Cross Valley Expressway see numerous serious car accidents each year. Our attorneys handle all types of car crash cases, from rear-end collisions to multi-vehicle pileups, helping victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Learn More About Car Accident CasesTruck Accidents
With major highways intersecting in Wilkes-Barre, commercial truck accidents are unfortunately common and often devastating. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, identify all responsible parties (including trucking companies, drivers, and manufacturers), and pursue maximum compensation for catastrophic injuries resulting from these crashes.
Learn More About Truck Accident CasesMedical Malpractice
When healthcare providers at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, or other local facilities make preventable errors, patients suffer. Our attorneys work with medical experts to build strong malpractice claims for surgical errors, misdiagnosis, birth injuries, medication mistakes, and other forms of negligent care.
Learn More About Medical Malpractice CasesSlip and Fall Accidents
Property owners in Wilkes-Barre must maintain safe premises for visitors. When they fail to address hazards like wet floors, icy sidewalks, poor lighting, or broken stairs, serious injuries can occur. We help victims of premises liability accidents at shopping centers, restaurants, apartment buildings, and other properties recover fair compensation.
Learn More About Slip and Fall CasesWrongful Death
When negligence causes fatal injuries, we help Wilkes-Barre families seek justice and financial security through wrongful death claims. While no amount of money can replace your loved one, compensation can help cover funeral expenses, lost income, and provide for the future needs of dependents left behind.
Learn More About Wrongful Death CasesWork Injuries
Beyond workers' compensation, we explore third-party liability claims for workplace accidents in Wilkes-Barre's manufacturing facilities, construction sites, warehouses, and other workplaces. These claims often provide significantly more compensation than workers' comp alone when equipment manufacturers, subcontractors, or property owners are partially responsible.
Learn More About Work Injury CasesPersonal Injury Cases in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Understanding Wilkes-Barre's Unique Injury Landscape
As the county seat of Luzerne County and one of northeastern Pennsylvania's largest cities, Wilkes-Barre presents unique factors that influence personal injury cases. With approximately 40,000 residents and serving as a regional hub for shopping, healthcare, and employment, Wilkes-Barre sees significant traffic and commercial activity that contribute to various accident types.
The city's location at the confluence of Interstate 81, Route 309, and the Cross Valley Expressway creates high-risk areas for traffic accidents. Wilkes-Barre's historic architecture, while beautiful, can present maintenance challenges leading to premises liability issues. Additionally, the city's coal mining history has left some areas with subsidence concerns that can affect property safety.
Our attorneys understand these local factors and how they can influence personal injury claims. We use this knowledge to build stronger cases for our Wilkes-Barre clients, identifying location-specific hazards, relevant local ordinances, and patterns of negligence that might be overlooked by attorneys unfamiliar with the area.
Common Accident Locations in Wilkes-Barre
Our experience handling personal injury cases throughout Wilkes-Barre has given us insight into accident patterns and high-risk locations, including:
- Interstate 81 Corridor: High-speed collisions frequently occur on this major highway, particularly near the exits for Highland Park Boulevard and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
- Cross Valley Expressway (Route 309): The interchanges with Route 309 and Interstate 81 see numerous crashes, especially during rush hour and adverse weather conditions.
- Public Square: The center of downtown Wilkes-Barre experiences pedestrian accidents and fender benders due to congested traffic patterns and frequent pedestrian crossings.
- Wyoming Valley Mall Area: The high volume of traffic around Wilkes-Barre Township Commons and Arena Hub Plaza contributes to frequent accidents, particularly during holiday shopping seasons.
- Construction Zones: Ongoing infrastructure projects throughout the city create hazardous conditions for both workers and passing motorists.
Understanding these local accident hotspots helps us investigate your case more effectively and identify potential witnesses or surveillance footage that might strengthen your claim.
Local Medical Resources for Injury Victims
Receiving proper medical care is crucial after an accident, both for your health and to document your injuries for your claim. Wilkes-Barre offers several high-quality medical facilities, including:
- Wilkes-Barre General Hospital: The region's largest hospital, offering comprehensive emergency and trauma services.
- Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center: Provides specialized care for serious injuries, including a Level II Trauma Center.
- Allied Services Heinz Rehab Hospital: Offers rehabilitation services for accident victims recovering from serious injuries.
- The Wright Center for Community Health: Provides primary care and follow-up services for less severe injuries.
Our attorneys can help coordinate your medical care, ensure proper documentation of your injuries, and work directly with healthcare providers regarding payment arrangements while your case is pending.
Navigating the Wilkes-Barre Legal System
Personal injury lawsuits in Wilkes-Barre are typically filed in the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas, located at:
Luzerne County Courthouse
200 North River Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711
Our attorneys have extensive experience with the local court system, including knowledge of local rules, familiarity with judges and their preferences, and established relationships with court personnel. This local expertise can significantly benefit your case, helping it proceed more efficiently through the legal system.
Additionally, we understand the importance of alternative dispute resolution options in Wilkes-Barre, including the county's mediation program. Many cases can be resolved favorably through mediation or settlement negotiations, saving you time and stress while still securing fair compensation.
Understanding Pennsylvania Injury Laws That Affect Your Case
Pennsylvania has specific laws that can significantly impact your injury case. Our Wilkes-Barre personal injury lawyers have deep knowledge of these laws and how they apply to your situation:
Statute of Limitations
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strictly enforced by courts, and missing it can permanently bar your claim. There are some exceptions for minors or cases where injuries weren't immediately discoverable, but these are limited. Our attorneys ensure all deadlines are met while thoroughly preparing your case.
Comparative Negligence
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you're found more than 51% responsible, you cannot recover damages. Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce their payout. We gather evidence to minimize your assigned percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.
No-Fault Insurance
Pennsylvania has a choice no-fault insurance system for auto accidents. Depending on your chosen coverage (full tort or limited tort), your ability to sue for non-economic damages like pain and suffering may be restricted. However, exceptions exist for serious injuries. We help navigate these complex insurance rules to pursue all available compensation avenues.
Damage Caps
While Pennsylvania doesn't cap compensatory damages in most personal injury cases, there are exceptions for cases against government entities. Additionally, punitive damages (meant to punish egregious misconduct) are typically limited to two to three times the compensatory damages. Our attorneys accurately value your claim and pursue all available damages categories.
Unique Aspects of Wilkes-Barre Personal Injury Cases
Beyond statewide laws, local factors can influence personal injury cases in Wilkes-Barre. These include:
- Local Court Procedures: The Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas has specific local rules and procedures that must be followed precisely. Our familiarity with these requirements prevents procedural errors that could harm your case.
- Jury Demographics: The composition and tendencies of local jury pools can impact case valuations and strategy. Our extensive trial experience in Wilkes-Barre courts gives us insight into how local juries typically respond to different types of evidence and arguments.
- Municipal Liability: Claims against the City of Wilkes-Barre or Luzerne County involve additional requirements and limitations. We understand the proper notice procedures and specialized defenses that may apply in these cases.
- Local Insurance Practices: We're familiar with how major insurance companies typically handle claims in northeastern Pennsylvania, including their settlement patterns and litigation strategies in local courts.
Our deep understanding of both Pennsylvania law and local factors allows us to develop more effective strategies for Wilkes-Barre personal injury cases, often resulting in better outcomes for our clients.
Our Wilkes-Barre Personal Injury Process
We make the legal process as smooth as possible for our clients, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle every aspect of your case:
Free Initial Consultation
We begin with a thorough, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case and explain your options. During this meeting, we'll discuss the circumstances of your accident, the extent of your injuries, potential liability issues, and your legal rights. You can ask any questions and get a clear understanding of how we can help.
Investigation
Once you choose us to represent you, we launch a comprehensive investigation. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing police and accident reports, obtaining medical records, consulting with experts, and identifying all potentially liable parties. For Wilkes-Barre cases, we also examine local factors that might have contributed to your accident.
Case Building
Using the evidence gathered, we develop a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. This includes documenting the full extent of your damages (medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.), establishing liability, anticipating defense strategies, and preparing compelling arguments to support your claim.
Negotiation
With a solid case built, we negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to maximize your settlement. Our reputation for securing favorable verdicts at trial often motivates insurers to offer fair settlements. We keep you informed throughout this process and never accept an offer without your approval.
Litigation
If a fair settlement isn't offered, we're fully prepared to take your case to court. We file your lawsuit in the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas, handle all pre-trial procedures, and present a compelling case to the jury. Our trial attorneys have extensive experience in local courts and a strong record of successful verdicts.
Resolution
Whether through settlement or verdict, we work to conclude your case efficiently while maximizing your compensation. Once your case is resolved, we help you understand the terms of your settlement, address any liens or outstanding medical bills, and ensure you receive your compensation promptly.
Throughout this entire process, our team remains accessible to answer your questions, provide updates on your case, and address any concerns you may have.
Schedule Your Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Cases in Wilkes-Barre
Our Wilkes-Barre personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs or hourly fees. We only get paid if we win your case, typically taking a percentage of your final settlement or court award. This arrangement ensures everyone can access quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
The duration of a personal injury case in Wilkes-Barre varies depending on several factors, including the severity of injuries, clarity of liability, insurance company cooperation, and court schedules. Simple cases might settle in a few months, while complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability could take one to two years, especially if a trial is necessary. Our attorneys work diligently to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive maximum compensation.
In Wilkes-Barre personal injury cases, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- In some cases, punitive damages
Our attorneys carefully calculate all potential damages to ensure you receive fair and comprehensive compensation.
You should never accept an insurance company's initial settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies typically offer low initial settlements hoping you'll accept before understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages. Our Wilkes-Barre personal injury attorneys can evaluate whether an offer is fair based on your specific injuries, recovery prognosis, and all applicable damages. We've frequently secured settlements many times higher than initial offers.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for your accident, as long as you're less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're deemed 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000. Our attorneys work to minimize your assigned percentage of fault to maximize your recovery.
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. If you don't file your lawsuit within this timeframe, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as cases involving minors or situations where the injury wasn't immediately discoverable. It's best to consult with our Wilkes-Barre attorneys as soon as possible after your accident to ensure all deadlines are met.
Have more questions about your specific case? Contact our Wilkes-Barre personal injury attorneys for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Get Answers to Your QuestionsServing Personal Injury Victims Throughout Wilkes-Barre and Surrounding Areas
Our Wilkes-Barre personal injury attorneys serve clients throughout the city and surrounding communities in Luzerne County. We understand the local roads, neighborhoods, and factors that can affect your case in these specific areas:
Downtown Wilkes-Barre
Covering the Public Square area, River Common, and the downtown business district, where pedestrian accidents and premises liability cases are common.
North End
Including Miners Mills, Parsons, and Plains Road areas, where both residential and commercial accident cases occur frequently.
South Wilkes-Barre
Covering Carey Avenue, South Main Street, and surrounding neighborhoods with their unique traffic patterns and accident risks.
East End
Including areas near Wilkes University and King's College, where pedestrian and bicycle accidents are more prevalent.
Wilkes-Barre Township
Home to major shopping centers including Arena Hub Plaza and Wyoming Valley Mall, where premises liability and parking lot accidents frequently occur.
Heights
Including Mayflower, Georgetown, and surrounding residential areas that have their own unique traffic and safety concerns.
We also serve clients throughout other Luzerne County communities, including:
No matter where in Wilkes-Barre or Luzerne County your injury occurred, our attorneys have the local knowledge and legal expertise to effectively handle your case.
View All Luzerne County LocationsInjured in Wilkes-Barre? Don't Wait to Get Help
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