Car accidents on I-76, truck crashes near Harrisburg, or workplace injuries in Philadelphia can turn lives upside down in an instant. In the aftermath of a serious or fatal accident, Pennsylvania victims and their families often face more than just physical recovery, they also have to deal with medical bills, lost income, emotional trauma, and legal uncertainty.
This guide outlines essential Pennsylvania accident victim resources to help you take the next steps. Whether you’re injured or grieving, you’ll find support services, guidance on obtaining crash reports, and information about your legal rights in the Keystone State.
Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Pennsylvania
If you’ve been hurt because of another person’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Acting quickly is important, as Pennsylvania law limits the amount of time you have to file a legal claim.
Major Hospitals and Trauma Centers in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers excellent trauma and rehabilitation care through:
- Penn Medicine (Philadelphia) – Level I trauma care, rehab, and neurology
- UPMC Presbyterian (Pittsburgh) – Top-rated emergency and surgical center
- Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest (Allentown) – Advanced trauma and orthopedic care
- Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey) – Trauma center with pediatric and burn care
You can also explore local health support via the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Personal Injury Law in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means you can recover compensation if you’re less than 51% at fault for the accident. The amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Recoverable damages may include:
- Hospital bills and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental distress
- Property repair or replacement
The time limit to file most personal injury claims in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of the accident.
Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Pennsylvania
Losing a loved one in a preventable accident is heartbreaking. While no amount of compensation can bring someone back, Pennsylvania law allows surviving family members to pursue justice through a wrongful death claim.
Grief Support Services in Pennsylvania
Several local organizations offer grief counseling and emotional support:
- Highmark Caring Place (Pittsburgh, Erie, Harrisburg, Warrendale) – Grief support for children and families
- UPMC Family Hospice – Bereavement counseling for adults and children
- The Center for Loss and Bereavement (Skippack) – Grief therapy, groups, and educational workshops
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 any time for free emotional support
Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Pennsylvania
Under 42 Pa. C.S. § 8301, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. The lawsuit seeks compensation for close family members like spouses, children, or parents.
Compensation may cover:
- Medical costs and funeral expenses
- Loss of financial support and companionship
- Pain and suffering of surviving loved ones
The time limit for filing a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of death.
How to Get a Police Report After an Accident in Pennsylvania
A police crash report is often needed for insurance claims and legal proceedings. These reports include details like fault, driver behavior, and conditions at the time of the accident.
Requesting a Crash Report in Pennsylvania
To get a copy of a crash report:
- Visit PennDOT’s Crash Report Portal: https://www.dot.state.pa.us
- Contact the Local Police Department: Especially if the crash occurred within city limits
- State Police Reports: Call or visit the local Pennsylvania State Police troop office
You’ll typically need the date, location, names of people involved, and a small fee (usually $22). Reports are usually available within 15 days.
Financial and Social Support for Pennsylvania Accident Victims
Injury and grief can bring financial hardship. Pennsylvania offers several public and victim-specific programs to help with immediate and ongoing needs.
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
You may qualify for support through:
- Medicaid / Medical Assistance – Healthcare coverage for those in need
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Food assistance
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Financial help for families with children
- LIHEAP – Help with heating and utility bills
Apply at https://www.compass.state.pa.us
Pennsylvania Crime Victims Compensation Program
If your injury or loved one’s death involved a crime (e.g., DUI or hit-and-run), the Crime Victims Compensation Program may help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Counseling
- Lost wages
- Funeral costs
Visit https://www.pccd.pa.gov or call 800-233-2339 for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Pennsylvania
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover damages.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Pennsylvania uses a 51% modified comparative fault rule, so you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I really need a police report?
A police report isn’t always required, but it provides valuable documentation of the incident. It can strengthen your insurance or legal claim by detailing what happened and who may have been at fault.
Who can file a wrongful death claim?
The personal representative of the estate must file the claim, but compensation goes to surviving family members like a spouse, children, or parents. The representative is often named in the will or appointed by the court.
Should I speak with a lawyer after an accident?
Yes. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and make sure your case is filed before the deadline. Legal help is especially important if someone died or if fault is disputed.
Call a Pennsylvania Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been injured—or worse, lost—in an accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. From police reports to insurance negotiations, an experienced Pennsylvania accident attorney can guide you every step of the way.
A lawyer can:
- Review your police report and medical records
- Explain your legal rights
- Pursue compensation through settlement or trial
Call a Pennsylvania accident attorney today to protect your future and start your path toward justice and recovery.