Personal Injury Lawyer in Reading

A negligence-based claim generally requires evidence that another party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused an injury that resulted in legally recognized damages. The facts determine which parties, insurance policies, and liability theories may apply.

Compensation may address two principal categories of loss:

• Economic damages: Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and other measurable financial losses
• Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life

A fatal accident may also raise wrongful death and estate-related issues that differ from a claim brought by a surviving injured person. The available claims depend on the family relationships, financial losses, accident facts, and applicable Pennsylvania law.

Filing Deadlines for Personal Injury Claims

Under Pennsylvania’s Judicial Code, an action seeking damages for personal injury or death caused by negligence or another wrongful act generally must begin within two years. The applicable date and any exception can depend on factors such as the defendant, claim type, discovery of the injury, and whether the injured person was a minor.

Claims involving state or local government defendants may also require notice within six months. Because missing a controlling deadline can affect the right to proceed, injured people shouldn’t rely on the general two-year period without obtaining advice about their specific circumstances.

Civil disputes in Berks County may be handled by the Berks County Court of Common Pleas, which is part of Pennsylvania’s 23rd Judicial District. Jurisdiction and venue depend on the parties, accident location, amount at issue, and other case-specific facts.

What Happens During a Personal Injury Case

We begin with an individualized case evaluation focused on how the accident happened, who may be responsible, the injuries involved, and the resulting losses. If we take the case, our attorneys can develop the evidence and legal strategy needed for negotiations or litigation.

The representation process may include:

• Investigating the incident: Reviewing photographs, reports, witness information, medical records, and other available evidence
• Identifying responsible parties: Examining the conduct of individuals, businesses, property owners, healthcare providers, or other involved parties
• Documenting damages: Organizing medical bills, wage records, treatment information, and evidence of personal losses
• Handling insurance negotiations: Presenting the claim and responding to disputes concerning fault, coverage, or damages
• Preparing for litigation: Developing the case for mediation, settlement discussions, motions, or trial when appropriate

A claim may resolve through negotiation, mediation, settlement, or trial. Timing varies based on medical treatment, prognosis, disputed facts, insurer cooperation, and court activity. When available, preserve accident records, photographs, medical bills, wage information, witness details, and communications with insurers for legal review.

Take the Next Step after a Serious Injury

van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin combines full-spectrum legal capability with human-centered advocacy for injured people and their families. We build claims around the evidence, available insurance coverage, and the full financial and personal impact of the injury.