FAQs

Personal Injury FAQs

Without the assistance of a proven attorney, it can prove quite difficult to navigate the legal landscape. Thankfully, the certified team at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. is constantly standing by to provide support. In fact, we've recently developed an informative FAQ page to ensure you gain a base-level understanding of our legal capabilities. Be sure to browse the following section to learn about the counsel provided by our local wrongful death and personal injury attorneys. As always, you're welcome to contact one of our knowledgeable representatives with any additional questions, comments, or concerns. Our local firm is proud to serve Erie, PA and all the surrounding regions.

  • What is wrongful death?

    Wrongful death is a death caused by another party’s negligence, carelessness, or reckless actions. Wrongful deaths can be filed, depending on how the death occurred, after an auto accident, airplane accident, 18-wheeler accident, toxic exposure, and workplace accident.

  • How do I pay for a personal injury attorney?

    You should not worry about paying for a personal injury attorney for your case. Most attorneys take personal injury cases at no cost to you. They generally take a percentage of any settlement or judgment that is paid to you. The percentage that an attorney takes varies, but it typically is between 30-33%. 

  • Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit?

    Pennsylvania state law dictates who can file for a wrongful death lawsuit. State law states that only surviving spouses, children, or parents of the deceased person. There is no citizenship requirement. You can seek monetary damages for the wrongful death.

  • What is a release in a settlement?

    A release is a document that you sign that releases all legal claims against the defendant and their insurer in exchange for the settlement money. It is important to note that you may be signing a release for releasing liability to the party or parties that you sued, but that release also covers any other potentially responsible party. If you are married, then your partner may have to sign the release as well.

  • What can I get compensated for in a personal injury case?

    In Pennsylvania, there is no cap on damages you can recover. You can file to potentially recover an infinite amount of damages including lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

  • What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death claim?

    The damages that can be recovered will depend on your state laws and regulations. In general, damages that can be recovered include economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include lost wages, medical expenses, loss of future wages, and funeral expenses. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

  • What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim?

    The statute of limitation for filing a wrongful death claim varies by jurisdiction. The statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file a claim before you are no longer legally eligible to seek damages. It is best to consult your local wrongful death attorney for detailed information about the statute of limitations applicable to your claim.

  • How can an attorney help with a wrongful death claim?

    The legal process for wrongful death cases can be long and complex. An attorney can provide you with invaluable guidance through it all. They will help you gather evidence, investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, identify liable parties, calculate potential damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court proceedings. This will help ensure that your interests are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your loss.

  • Can you negotiate with the insurance companies after an accident?

    As a trusted car accident lawyer, Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. will negotiate with insurance companies to make sure they cover the cost of vehicle repairs and any other expenses associated with a car accident. If necessary, we will represent you in court to make sure you receive the monetary compensation you're entitled to. To make sure you're treated fairly by the insurance companies, work with a trusted car accident lawyer like Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. 

  • What should I do if I've been charged with a crime?

    The first thing to do if you've been charged with a crime is to make sure you can secure professional legal counsel. A criminal lawyer can help protect your rights and craft a proper defense. 

  • When is it necessary to hire a real estate attorney?

    A real estate attorney can provide the help you need if you're puchasing or selling property. Real estate contracts can be complex, which is why it is essential to have a real estate attorney to review the particulars of the contract with your transaction and make sure your needs and interests are met. If you are working on a real estate deal, make sure you hire a real estate attorney. 

  • Is there something I can do to plan for the unexpected?

    You can put a plan into place to be prepared for the unexpected in life. You can reach out to an attorney for help with estate planning, which will create a plan for your assets after you pass away. Estate planning can also delegate necessary care for loved ones when you can no longer provide the care they need. 

Contact Our Personal Injury Attorney Today!

At Watts and Pepicelli, P.C., we assist clients in filing personal injury claims and recovering damages. Our attorneys can help victims of car accidents, boat accidents, dog bites, and slip-and-fall accidents. Injury cases are not limited to these types of accidents, but they cover many of them. You can recover financial compensation for a wide range of damages including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In Pennsylvania, there is no limit to the amount of financial compensation that you may recover. Contact our lawyers to begin your personal injury case in the Oil City, Grove City, and Meadville, PA areas!