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What to Expect: Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:35:48 GMT

If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering what comes next. Medical bills start arriving, you may be missing work, and the stress can quickly become overwhelming. Filing a claim with the help of a personal injury attorney can feel intimidating at first, but understanding the process can make it much more manageable.

A personal injury claim is designed to help injured individuals recover compensation for losses caused by another party’s carelessness. This may include car accidents, slip and falls, workplace incidents, or other situations where negligence resulted in harm. A personal injury attorney works to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.

Step One: The Initial Consultation

The first step in the process is meeting with a personal injury attorney to discuss your case. During this consultation, you’ll talk about how the injury occurred, the extent of your medical treatment, and how the incident has affected your life. This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand your options. A personal injury attorney will evaluate whether you have a valid claim and explain the potential next steps. This early guidance helps you make informed decisions about moving forward.

Step Two: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Once you decide to proceed, your personal injury attorney will begin investigating the claim. This may involve gathering medical records, accident reports, witness statements, photographs, and other documentation that support your case. The goal during this stage is to build a clear picture of liability and damages. A strong foundation of evidence allows your personal injury attorney to negotiate confidently with insurance companies or prepare for litigation if necessary.

Step Three: Filing the Claim and Negotiation

After evidence has been collected, your personal injury attorney will typically file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. Negotiations often follow. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, which is why having a personal injury attorney advocating for you is so important. During negotiations, your attorney will seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Many personal injury claims are resolved through settlement at this stage.

Step Four: Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit if Necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your personal injury attorney may recommend filing a personal injury lawsuit. This begins the formal legal process and may involve court appearances, depositions, and possibly a trial. While most cases settle before reaching trial, your personal injury attorney will prepare thoroughly to ensure your case is presented effectively if it does proceed to court.

What You Can Expect Throughout the Process

Filing a personal injury claim takes time, patience, and communication. You can expect ongoing updates from your personal injury attorney as your case progresses. While every case is unique, having legal representation helps reduce uncertainty and ensures your interests are protected at every stage. The ultimate goal is to help you recover financially so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

Contact Us to File Your Personal Injury Claim

At Watts and Pepicelli, P.C., our team is dedicated to helping injured individuals seek the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s negligence, a personal injury attorney from our firm can review your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the claims process. We are committed to advocating for our clients and pursuing fair outcomes through negotiation or litigation when necessary. Contact us today to discuss filing your personal injury lawsuit and take the first step toward recovery.

Wrongful Death Liability: Multiple At-Fault Parties

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:30:20 GMT

Wrongful Death Liability: Multiple At-Fault Parties

Losing a loved one due to negligence is overwhelming, and the legal process can feel even more complicated when more than one party may be responsible. In many wrongful death cases, liability is shared among multiple individuals or entities. Understanding how this works is important for families seeking accountability and fair compensation. At WP Law Firm, we guide families through these complex cases with care and clarity.

When Multiple Parties May Be Responsible

Wrongful death cases often involve shared fault. Common situations include:

Motor vehicle accidents: Multiple drivers, employers, or vehicle manufacturers may share liability.
Workplace incidents: Employers, contractors, or equipment manufacturers may all be involved.
Medical negligence: More than one healthcare provider or facility may have contributed to the outcome.
Unsafe property conditions: Property owners and maintenance companies may share responsibility.

Each party’s actions are carefully evaluated to determine how they contributed to the loss.

Why Identifying All At-Fault Parties Matters

When liability is shared, holding every responsible party accountable can increase the chances of full compensation. Insurance companies often try to shift blame, making these cases more challenging without legal support.

How a Wrongful Death Attorney Helps

An experienced attorney investigates the incident, gathers evidence, and manages claims involving multiple defendants. This allows families to focus on healing while their legal rights are protected.

Speak With a Wrongful Death Attorney

If you believe more than one party may be responsible for your loved one’s death, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. An experienced wrongful death attorney can help investigate the facts, identify all at-fault parties, and pursue the compensation your family deserves. WP Law Firm is here to provide clear guidance, compassionate support, and strong advocacy during this difficult time. Reach out to our office today to schedule a consultation.

Personal Injury Law: Statute of Limitations

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:53:22 GMT

Statute of Limitations Guide for Personal Injury

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, time is one of the most important factors in protecting your legal rights. In Pennsylvania, personal injury claims are governed by strict deadlines known as statutes of limitations. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation entirely—no matter how strong your case may be.

This guide explains what the statute of limitations is, how it applies to personal injury cases in Pennsylvania, and the key exceptions you should know.

What Is a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit after an injury or legal claim arises. The purpose is to ensure cases are brought while the evidence is still fresh and to provide legal certainty for all parties involved.

Once the statute of limitations expires, courts will typically refuse to hear the case.

Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is:

Two (2) years from the date of the injury

Common Types of Personal Injury Cases:

Car accidents
Truck and motorcycle accidents
Slip and fall injuries
Medical malpractice
Product liability
Dog bites
Wrongful death (with specific considerations)

The governing law can be found in 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524.

When Does the Clock Start Running?

In most cases, the two-year clock begins on the date the injury occurred. For example, if you were injured in a car accident on June 1, 2025, you would generally have until June 1, 2027, to file a lawsuit.

However, Pennsylvania law recognizes that some injuries are not immediately discoverable. That’s where exceptions come into play.

Important Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule

1. The Discovery Rule

Pennsylvania applies the discovery rule in cases where an injury or its cause is not immediately known. Under this rule, the statute of limitations may begin when the injured person knew or reasonably should have known about the injury and its connection to another party’s negligence. This exception is commonly applied in:

Medical malpractice cases
Toxic exposure claims
Defective product cases

Courts apply the discovery rule narrowly, so it should not be assumed without legal guidance.

2. Minors (Injured Children)

If the injured person is under the age of 18, Pennsylvania law generally pauses (tolls) the statute of limitations until the child turns 18. This means:

The two-year period usually begins on the child’s 18th birthday
A lawsuit may be filed until the child turns 20

3. Claims Against Government Entities

If your injury involves a state or local government entity, special rules apply. In many cases, you must:

Provide formal written notice of the claim within six months of the injury
Comply with additional procedural requirements

Failure to follow these rules can bar your claim—even if the two-year statute of limitations has not expired.

4. Fraud or Concealment

If a defendant actively concealed their wrongdoing, the statute of limitations may be tolled until the injured party discovers—or reasonably should have discovered—the misconduct.

What Happens If You Miss a Deadline?

If you file your personal injury lawsuit after the statute of limitations has expired, the defendant can request that the case be dismissed. In most situations, courts will grant that request, permanently ending your ability to recover compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future care needs

Why Acting Early Matters

Even though Pennsylvania allows up to two years to file most personal injury claims, waiting can seriously harm your case. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurance companies may become more aggressive over time. Consulting with a personal injury attorney early helps ensure:

Deadlines are met
Evidence is preserved
Your claim is properly evaluated and protected

Consult with a Trusted Personal Injury Attorney Today

Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is strict, and exceptions are limited. Understanding these deadlines is critical—but applying them correctly often requires legal experience.

If you or a loved one has been injured, it’s always best to speak with a qualified Pennsylvania personal injury attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and options. That’s where the team at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. comes in. Reach out to our law firm in Meadville, PA to schedule a consultation today.

Why Hiring a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help You Seek Justice

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:41:11 GMT

The Importance of Hiring a Wrongful Death Attorney

Losing a loved one is a heartbreaking experience, but when that loss is caused by someone else's negligence or wrongful actions, the pain can hurt even more. A wrongful death not only leaves families with emotional devastation but often imposes financial burdens. During such challenging times, having a knowledgeable and compassionate wrongful death attorney by your side can make all the difference.

A wrongful death attorney will understand the profound impact losing a loved one tragically can have on a family. What a wrongful death attorney can do is offer these families the legal support they need to pursue justice. Wrongful death refers to a situation where someone loses their life due to another party's negligence, misconduct, or intentional practices. These cases can include medical malpractice, workplace accidents, car or truck accidents, defective products, assault, and homicide. Whatever the cause, filing a wrongful death claim involves navigating a complex legal process. That’s why knowledgeable representation is essential to protect your interests and secure justice.

A knowledgeable and compassionate wrongful death attorney will seek financial compensation for families who have lost loved ones and give these families a voice for loved ones who were lost by holding the responsible parties accountable. Here are some of the main reasons why hiring a wrongful death attorney can make a huge difference for your family:

Understanding Legal Complexities
Wrongful death cases involve multiple statutes and time-sensitive deadlines. A skilled wrongful death attorney will guide you through this complex process, ensuring no critical details are overlooked.

Assigning Financial Value to the Loss
Beyond funeral expenses and lost income, wrongful death claims consider emotional pain, loss of companionship, and other intangible damages. An attorney can appropriately assess the full scope of your losses.

Providing Emotional and Legal Support
Facing legal battles while grieving can feel like an insurmountable task. An empathetic lawyer can handle the legal responsibilities, giving you the time and space to heal.

Advocating for Justice
A wrongful death attorney will work tirelessly to ensure those at fault are held accountable, seeking justice not only for your family but also to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

What You Can Expect from a Wrongful Death Attorney

A wrongful death attorney will be there with you to provide unwavering support during your time of need, while also working tirelessly to pursue justice on your behalf. If you're in Meadville, PA, you can count on Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. to handle your case with diligence and care. Our attorneys will thoroughly evaluate the details of your situation and provide clear communication in advance of comprehensive, aggressive representation in either negotiations or court proceedings. We aim to deliver results that honor your loved one’s memory while giving you the support you need to start the healing process.

If you have lost a loved one due to another’s negligence or wrongful actions, don’t face this difficult road alone. Contact Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. for a free consultation to discuss your case and begin pursuing justice in the form of compensation and resources that allow you and your family to move forward and focus on healing. Count on us as your wrongful death attorney in Erie, PA and the surrounding areas.

Does Your Farm Accident Warrant a Call to an Attorney?

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:18:40 GMT

When you or a loved one gets injured on a farm, a personal injury or wrongful death attorney should be one of your first calls.

Some days work on the farm can be peaceful and quiet. Yes, it is exhausting, but there’s usually a sense of accomplishment. For the most part, you can visibly see how much you got done in a single day. However, because farm work requires a lot of physical labor, accidents will happen and people will get injured. Injuries can be unavoidable, because of the heavy equipment, risky tools, livestock, and heavy objects involved.

However, if your injury is more severe than sore hands and every muscle on your body feeling overworked, you should consider getting in touch with a personal injury attorney. On a farm, the capabilities of your body affect your income. As a result, when you get injured, it is vital you file a claim to be compensated for your personal injury. Likewise, if a member of your family passes away in a farm accident, it is essential that you contact a wrongful death attorney.

Contact a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death Attorney After a Farm Accident

There are many things that can go wrong on a farm such as a tractor or other piece of heavy machinery malfunctioning and causing bodily harm, an animal hurting someone, or toxic pesticides invading your lungs. No matter what kind of injury you or a loved one is dealing with, a personal injury or wrongful death attorney may be able to help.

In Grove City, Meadville, and Oil City, PA, our farms have a huge impact on our community. When someone gets injured on one of those farms, the personal injury attorneys and wrongful death attorneys at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. are available to help you file a claim. Farm injuries are never fun and often expensive, but with our help, your medical bills should be a little more affordable. Contact us today to learn more about how our team can help.

4 FAQ About Miranda Rights

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 08:38:14 GMT

If you’re questioned by the police after an arrest, the arresting officer is required by law to inform you of your Miranda rights. These rights, which are given during a “Miranda warning,” contain important information regarding your arrest, including your right to an attorney and to remain silent. Learn more about what exactly these rights entail and when you should contact an attorney if you think they’ve been infringed upon.

Common Questions About Miranda Rights

What are Miranda rights?

“Miranda rights” refer to the information you’re legally entitled to while in police custody. Before being questioned, the officer must recite the following four rights to you:

You have the right to remain silent.
Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
You have the right to an attorney.
If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.

What’s the history behind the Miranda rights?

These rights are connected to the Fifth Amendment’s protection against self-incrimination. During a 1966 court case , Ernesto Miranda confessed to a violent crime and signed a statement of guilt. However, because he had not been informed of his rights prior to his confession, the conviction was overturned.

When do Miranda rights have to be given?

When a person is taken into custody, — whether at a police station, at the person’s home, or anywhere else — Miranda rights must be read prior to any questioning. What counts as custody is a complex question. Courts typically weigh several situational factors to determine whether a person was subject to a custodial interrogation, such as the use of bodily restraints or physical force, the location of the questioning, and whether the officer used an accusatory or threatening tone. Even the time of day can be a consideration.

What are Miranda waivers?

The Miranda waiver is a document a person can sign that states they're waiving their right to an attorney or to remain silent. You don't necessarily need to sign a form to waive your rights, however. Your actions after Miranda warnings are given can also constitute an implied waiver. If you acknowledge understanding your rights, don't ask for an attorney, and make incriminating statements, those statements will generally be admissible in court.

Whether you didn’t receive your Miranda rights or are dealing with another legal issue, trust the professionals at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA. With more than 25 years of service to individuals in Crawford County, the attorneys on staff can provide the legal counsel you need for your personal situation. To learn more about these legal professionals, visit them online or call (814) 336-4000.

What's the Difference Between Bodily & Personal Injury?

Mon, 13 May 2019 08:33:21 GMT

After an accident, you might hear the terms personal injury and bodily injury used interchangeably, especially in the context of seeking compensation for your damages. While both of these phrases refer to victims’ rights, they actually describe two different types of damages entirely. Below is an explanation of the distinction that every victim should understand.

How Bodily Injury & Personal Injury Differ

What Are Bodily Injuries?

After an accident or criminal act, the specific physical harms suffered by the victims are known as bodily injuries. This term is most often used in the context of auto accidents, but it’s also common in the criminal justice system .

Victims who have been hurt by negligence or intentional malice can claim compensation for bodily injuries, including the costs of copays and doctor’s fees, prescription medications, and any future medical expenses. Bodily injury claims can also encompass wages lost during recovery and reductions in future earning potential related to your medical condition.

Personal Injuries

In a sense, bodily injuries are a subset of personal injuries, and included in most accident claims. In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, personal injuries cover noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and how your injuries have impacted your quality of life. If the victim of the accident did not survive, their survivors may also be able to include their own loss of companionship and anguish in a personal injury claim.

Calculating the full extent of your damages in a personal injury claim can be extremely complex, often requiring the skills of an experienced attorney. For over 25 years, the attorneys at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. have provided compassionate and effective representation to victims throughout Crawford County, PA. Visit their website for more on their personal injury services or call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a consultation.

What You Should Know about Wills

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 08:30:35 GMT

Whether they’re single, childless, a business owner, married with young children, or a retiree, all adults need a will. Tragedy can strike at any time, no matter how remote the risk seems, so having an attorney draw up a will is a wise move. The basic guide to wills below explains why you shouldn’t delay in creating this essential document.

What You Should Know About Wills

What Wills Do

A will is a written set of instructions that courts honor after your passing. In your will, you’ll divvy up your assets to family members, friends, charities, or other institutions as you see fit. You can also describe your desired funeral plans, and explain how care of your children or other dependents should be managed. In your will, you can appoint a personal representative – called an executor – and an alternate for gathering and distributing your property.

Why Wills Are Necessary

If you pass away without a will, the courts will handle your assets through a process called probate. They’ll make decisions based on Pennsylvania intestacy rules – that is, laws that dictate how property should be distributed when someone dies without leaving any formal instructions. These rules may not align with your desires. Making a will gives you the peace of mind that your wishes will be respected and the lengthy probate process will be avoided or streamlined. It can also help avoid family disputes over property and help you plan for maximum tax advantage.

What Types Are Available

These estate planning documents come in many forms. They range from simple wills – in which you list direct beneficiaries – to living wills, which afford you the chance to control your end-of-life care in the event you’re incapacitated. There are also associated forms to consider, such as a trust, a durable power of attorney, and a letter of intent.

How an Attorney Will Help

An estate planning attorney will inform you about the types of wills and trusts available, which ones will best serve your needs, and what other paperwork you may need. Your lawyer will help you identify goals and protect assets from creditors. Documents prepared by a law professional will meet all legal requirements and express your wishes accurately. If your will isn’t properly prepared, it could be considered invalid, so rely on an expert to secure your future. An attorney can also safely store all documents so they aren’t misplaced.

The attorneys at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. want to help you avoid the issues that often arise when individuals pass away without wills. Based in Meadville, PA, these skilled and compassionate lawyers offer more than 80 years of combined experience, guiding Crawford County area clients in comprehensive estate planning to protect their best interests. Contact these dedicated professionals to discuss your legal needs now. Visit their website to read reviews from satisfied clients. Call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a confidential consultation.

What to Do After a Snowmobile Accident

Tue, 05 Feb 2019 08:26:46 GMT

The snowfall in Meadville, PA, is perfect for people who love riding snowmobiles. Area personal injury attorneys know that unfortunately, while these utility vehicles are fun to ride, they can be very dangerous. Here’s what you should do if you have an accident while driving or riding one of these off-road vehicles.

Steps to Take After a Snowmobile Crash

Call for Help

Seek medical attention to protect your health and learn the extent of your injuries. Many conditions like whiplash may not present symptoms for days or weeks, so get evaluated promptly even if you seem fine. Keep your medical records for your insurance company or attorney in support of your personal injury claim. Check that the other parties are okay and exchange insurance information, but don’t apologize or admit fault.

Make a Report

If police were called to the scene, ask for the information for their report. State law also requires you to report your wreck to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources . You must use the Snowmobile/ATV Accident Form (PDF) and file the report within seven days if any injury or death occurred or if there was property damage estimated at $100 or more.

Contact an Attorney

If someone else is at fault for the accident, contact an attorney before you talk to your insurance company representative. You want to know and protect your rights to receive full compensation for your injuries. Even if the culpability for the accident is unclear, your attorney will investigate whether you have a claim against the vehicle manufacturer and other individuals or companies. They’ll also walk you through how to notify your insurance company in a way that protects your best interests.

The personal injury attorneys at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA, offer wise advice and representation to injured individuals after snowmobile or other accidents. Skilled and compassionate, these lawyers have more than 80 years of combined experience in Crawford County. They’ll advocate for your right to obtain full compensation for your damage and loss. Visit their website now to read reviews from satisfied clients. Call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a confidential consultation.

3 Steps to Take After Slipping on Business Premises

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 07:34:15 GMT

Business owners have an obligation to maintain their properties in winter to minimize risks to passersby. Sadly, not all property managers are as prudent as they ought to be. If you slip on ice on commercial property this winter, here's what to do in the aftermath so you have the best chances of filing a successful personal injury claim.

What to Do After a Slip & Fall on Business Premises

1. Photograph the Area

In order to build a winning claim, you must ultimately prove that the business owner’s negligence – failing to sprinkle sand or salt over ice, for example – was directly responsible for your injuries. Photographs of the scene of your fall are important pieces of evidence. It can be especially hard to prove liability in slip and fall accidents involving ice because the hazardous conditions are temporary. If you fail to photograph the ice before it melts, for example, the defendant could argue that you simply lost your balance. Take pictures of the location as soon as possible after the incident, preferably before leaving scene.

2. Report the Accident

Find someone in a position of authority at the business to whom you can report the accident. If the owner is not on site, look for a manager or supervisor who can draft an incident report. Obtain a copy of this report before leaving the premises. It may serve as a critical piece of evidence during the subsequent personal injury claim.

3. Seek Medical Care

If you don’t call 911 at the scene, visit a doctor as soon as possible after leaving. This will ensure you receive care for any impact injuries, including those that might not be apparent immediately after your fall. It will also demonstrate a commitment to mitigating damages, so the business owner cannot later argue that you’re at least partially responsible for the severity of your condition because you postponed treatment. In addition to seeking prompt medical attention, it’s also important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident. They’ll work to ensure medical expenses and additional losses incurred from your injuries are addressed in your claim.

If you need a personal injury attorney this winter, turn to Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. Located in Meadville, PA, this firm has been representing clients in Crawford County and the rest of northwestern Pennsylvania for nearly three decades. Their legal team has more than 100 years of experience between them. They’re well-versed in a variety of practice areas, with particular expertise in personal injury law. They’ll provide you with the zealous representation that so often proves key to achieving fair outcomes. To reach out and schedule an initial consultation, fill out the form on their website or call (814) 336-4000.

5 Key Stages of the Pennsylvania Criminal Justice Process

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 07:29:43 GMT

The criminal justice system can seem intimidating and overwhelming, especially if you’ve never had any contact with the law. Thankfully, the law guarantees you attorney representation. While an attorney will guide you through the intricacies of the Pennsylvania criminal justice system, here’s a helpful primer on what happens when you face accusations of criminal conduct.

A 5-Step Guide to Criminal Proceedings in Pennsylvania

1. Arrest

To make an arrest, the police must have probable cause to believe you committed an offense. In certain situations, the police officer will have probable cause to arrest you at the time and place the alleged offense occurred. In other instances, the police initiate an investigation after receiving a report of a crime and arrest you later.

It’s important to remember that the scene of your arrest is not the place to dispute its validity, and resisting arrest can lead to additional criminal charges. The legality of an arrest is best left for your criminal attorney, the prosecutor, and the court to address. If you feel your rights have been violated, you can also consult with a civil attorney .

Once you are arrested, the arresting officer brings you to a police facility for processing and prepares an arrest report. The prosecutor reviews this report and can choose to do one of the following:

Decline to pursue the charges
File a criminal complaint with the trial court stating the charges
Present the matter to a grand jury for them to decide if criminal felony charges should be filed.

2. Preliminary Arraignment attorney

After the arrest, the accused appears before a magistrate for preliminary arraignment. The magistrate considers the accused person’s criminal and work history, community ties, and the case circumstances to set bail. The magistrate also sets a date for a preliminary hearing. Criminal law attorneys argue for no or low bail and favorable release terms for their clients.

3. Preliminary Hearing

Before individuals can be tried for crimes, Pennsylvania courts hold preliminary hearings before magistrates. Prosecutors must present enough evidence to show a crime occurred and that the accused person committed it. Criminal law attorneys argue for dismissal or reduction of charges.

4. Formal Arraignment

If the magistrate finds there’s enough evidence against the accused, they schedule a formal arraignment at the Court of Common Pleas in the county of arrest. At the formal arraignment, defendants appear with their lawyers and can either plead guilty and work out sentencing agreements, or plead not guilty and have their cases set for trials.

5. Plea Bargain or Trial

Most cases end by plea agreement or dismissal, rather than trial. Skilled criminal defense lawyers often negotiate favorable plea bargains for clients, get cases dropped, or win not guilty verdicts at trials by juries or judges.

The criminal law attorneys at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA, are ready to advise and represent individuals facing charges of misdemeanor and felony offenses for the first time. These skilled lawyers offer more than 80 years of combined experience in protecting people’s rights in the criminal justice system. They are also experts in the fields of property law, personal injury law, municipal law, and other areas. Locals depend on their effective advocacy, individualized service, and compassion to achieve the best possible outcome for their situations. Visit their website and find out how these lawyers can serve you. Call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a confidential consultation.

How to Safely Cross Dangerous Intersections

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 07:24:14 GMT

Almost every city and town has its dangerous intersections, with elements that make serious collisions more likely even for careful drivers. Meadville, PA, locals know that the intersection of Allegheny Street, Limber Road, and North Main Street near Allegheny College campus is particularly dangerous, thanks to dim lighting, a lack of clear signage, and confusing traffic flow, for example. If you’re in an accident, an attorney will help you collect compensation for your losses, but the tips below may help you avoid a collision in the first place.

A Guide to Traversing Dangerous Intersections

Look Both Ways

Many dangerous intersections have obstructions or sharp bends in the road that make it difficult for drivers to see traffic lights or other motorists. When the light turns green, accelerate carefully and slowly at first, and look both ways for drivers who may not notice the red light in time. If there are no lights – such as the Allegheny Street intersection – look carefully for stop signs that might be hard to see, and be aware that other drivers may not be so cautious.

Watch for Pedestrians

Attorneys often see personal injury cases arise from pedestrian collisions. At dangerous intersections, most drivers pay extra attention to the vehicles around them, only to miss pedestrians crossing the road. This situation can be even more dangerous if the lighting is poor or the area lacks continuous crosswalks that make it easier to predict pedestrian behavior. Don’t forget to check for pedestrians before proceeding through an intersection, and keep your headlights in good condition to ensure optimal visibility.

Leave Extra Space for Left Turns

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 20% of accidents at intersections occur when drivers attempting a left turn misjudge another vehicle’s speed. Obstructed views of oncoming traffic also make left turns especially dangerous, so wait for a clear break in traffic before proceeding. If you have any doubt that you can make it safely through the intersection safely, wait for the next opportunity rather than risking a collision.

If you’ve been injured in an accident at a dangerous intersection, the attorneys at Watts & Pepicelli, P.C. will fight for your rights and work to help you achieve justice. For over 25 years, they’ve represented victims throughout Crawford County injured by careless drivers and poorly maintained roads. Call (814) 336-4000 now to schedule a free consultation with an accomplished injury attorney today. Visit their website for more on how they’ll help you, or follow their Facebook page for regular updates and news.

What Is a "Dangerous Dog?"

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 07:16:32 GMT

Pennsylvania has strict laws about owning dogs it considers “dangerous.” The experienced dog bite lawyers at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA, want the public to know how the law protects them. Here is what you should know about such dogs, and what to do if a dog owner’s negligence causes you or a loved one to sustain an injury.

What Makes a Dog “Dangerous” in the Eyes of the Law?

A “dangerous dog” is one with a history of attacking, or tendency to attack people, dogs, cats, or other domestic animals without provocation. According to dog bite lawyers, a single injury or attack of a person or other domestic animal is sufficient to render an animal “dangerous.” If an animal was used in the commission of a crime, it might also receive this designation.

Requirements for Owners of Dangerous Dogs

Owners of dangerous dogs must comply with numerous regulations to keep their animals. Requirements include confinement, registering the dog with the state, and posting signs warning of a dangerous dog on the premises. If owners violate these regulations, the state may take their dogs away.

What to Do if Bitten

If a dog bites you, call 911 and seek medical help. The state dog warden must be notified of all dangerous dog attacks and will investigate. Gather as much information as possible about the last known location of the dog and owner. The owner could be charged with a criminal misdemeanor and might be liable for personal injury damages, so it’s wise to consult a dog bite lawyer to protect your rights.

The dog bite lawyers at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA, offer more than 80 years of combined experience when protecting their clients’ rights to recover damages after suffering personal injury due to dangerous dogs. These skilled and compassionate attorneys provide individualized service and seek full compensation for their clients from every source available. To see how they can serve you, visit their website and learn more about the firm’s practice. Call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a free consultation.

How Social Media Can Affect Criminal Law Cases

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 07:07:50 GMT

If you’re charged with criminal law violations, arresting officers will warn anything you say can be used in court. This disclaimer applies beyond what happens in the police station. Anything you say leading up to the trial—including social media—is fair game. Keep the following cautions in mind to prevent damaging your case with poor online discretion.

How Prosecutors Use Social Media in Criminal Law Trials

No Social Media Is Considered Private

Courts have ruled internet posts are public information and can be used as evidence. Even if you set posts to “private” or “friends only,” investigators and prosecutors might obtain access and use them to support their cases.

Posts Can Be Used to Support the State’s Case

In the investigative and discovery periods of a criminal law case, police and prosecutors often gather supporting evidence from social media. They can use it to corroborate a witness or discount a suspect's statements. They may also find evidence of intent to commit a crime, which can lead to additional charges.

Check-ins and online photo metadata could place you near the scene of a crime or provide evidence that will weaken your defense. For example, a lawyer may have a harder time fighting a 2 a.m. DUI arrest when a prosecutor introduces a photo showing the suspect in a bar at 1:00 a.m. on the date in question.

Social Media Can Be a Poor Character Witness

If you post on social media about your activities, prosecutors may use what you share to paint an unfavorable portrait or make you seem irresponsible. Even content others tag you in can discredit your character. Be mindful of posting anything about your case until its conclusion

If you have been arrested, stay off social media and call a qualified criminal law attorney. With more than a hundred years of combined practice experience, the lawyers at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. in Meadville, PA, offer wise legal advice and strong advocacy. Their additional practice areas include personal injury, civil litigation, and property law. Visit their website to learn more about the firm. Call (814) 336-4000 to schedule a confidential consultation.

What Every Motorist Should Know About Vehicle Defects

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 06:56:00 GMT

Minor mechanical problems are common in motor vehicles, especially as they age, but dangerous defects are unacceptable. When you spend a little extra for a car with all the latest safety features, it’s reasonable to assume the vehicle is in good working order. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Here’s what you should know about vehicle defects and safety recalls that may cause dangerous auto accidents .

Common Manufacturing Defects

Some manufacturer defects do not pose a safety risk, such as malfunctioning radios or engines that consume too much oil. While these are annoying, they are unlikely to result in a recall. Safety-related defects are those that increase the risk of causing an auto accident or sustaining more severe injuries in a collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the most common defects in this category include malfunctioning steering components, sticky accelerators, defective airbags, wiring issues, weak wheels, and faulty seat belts.

How Motorists Can Protect Themselves

To protect your family, it’s wise to track all safety recalls for your vehicle’s manufacturer. If your car is less than 15 years old, you can check its recall status on the NHTSA site . If some part of your car has been recalled, stop driving it until the defect has been repaired.

Of course, even if you regularly review all recalls, you could still end up in an auto accident caused by a mechanical defect. If this happens, consult with a personal injury attorney to determine the best recourse. A seasoned lawyer won’t be afraid to hold the auto manufacturer accountable and protect your interests during every stage of the claims process.

If you were hurt in an auto accident that was the result of a manufacturing defect, turn to the compassionate team at Watts and Pepicelli, P.C. Based in Meadville, PA, this firm provides comprehensive counsel in a variety of practice areas. In addition to personal injury law, they practice criminal defense, estate planning, school law, and property law. Visit their website to schedule an initial consultation, or call (814) 336-4000.