If you are the victim of personal injury, hiring an attorney can be an important part of the recovery process. Injury victims recover more financial compensation when they hire a personal injury lawyer compared to those that do not have a lawyer handling their damages claim.
Thank you for all your hard work to help me through these tough times and win my case. I greatly appreciate it very much.
– Client of Schmidt Kramer
For more than 25 years, the legal team at Schmidt Kramer have been helping to protect the rights of injured Pennsylvania residents and we have the experience to handle every part of your personal injury lawsuit. Our award winning lawyers have a proven record of success including a $10,043,952 verdict for a volunteer firefighter that suffered a spinal injury when a barn collapsed, a $4,034,000 verdict for a client that lost his eyesight in an hunting incident and a $1,200,000 jury verdict for the parents of a 5 year old that suffered a brain injury after he had a surgical procedure.
It’s free of charge to talk to a York personal injury lawyer at our firm about your potential case and there are no upfront fees if you decide to hire us.
Schmidt Kramer. Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help to ensure that your best interests are being protected while you are recovering from your injuries. Often, insurance companies and the lawyers that represent them will become involved shortly after an insurance claim is filed. The lawyers at Schmidt Kramer know how negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of our clients and we work hard to recover the maximum compensation that they may be eligible to receive.
There are many benefits to having an attorney handle a personal injury case, including:
- Representing your best interests and fielding settlement offers
- Personally handing your case and answering any questions you may have
- Collecting critical pieces of evidence to build a valid claim
- Investigating your accident scene thoroughly to prove the at-fault party was negligent
- Interviewing eyewitnesses who were present during your injury
- Documenting and calculating all of your losses for adequate compensation
- Confirming that all insurance claims, court documents and other paperwork is filed correctly and in a timely manner
Having an experienced York personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference in the outcome your case. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help you recover compensation. Our knowledgable attorneys have been recognized by some of the top legal organizations nationwide, including Best Lawyers® and Super Lawyers.
Call (717) 888-8888 now for our free consultation.
Why Should I Choose Schmidt Kramer as My York Personal Injury Lawyer?
Choosing a lawyer after an injury is an important decision. You are placing your trust in someone to guide you through a complex legal and insurance process.
When you work with Schmidt Kramer, you receive:
- Decades of experience representing injured Pennsylvanians
- Attorneys familiar with York County courts and local procedures
- Direct communication about your case and its progress
- Careful investigation of accident scenes and evidence
- Thorough evaluation of your losses
Personal injury claims are rarely simple. Insurance companies may request recorded statements, dispute liability, or challenge the severity of your injuries. Having legal representation can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
You are not just another case. Your recovery, your financial stability, and your family’s future matter.
Neighborhoods and Areas We Serve
Dallastown | Dover | East York | Emigsville | Etters | Glen Rock | Hallam | Hanover | Lewisberry | Loganville | Manchester | Mount Wolf | New Freedom | Red Lion | Shrewsbury | Spring Grove | Stewartstown | Thomasville | Wellsville | Wrightsville | York Haven
What is a York Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim arises when you are harmed because another person or entity failed to act with reasonable care. In legal terms, this is called negligence.
In practical terms, it means someone’s careless action or failure to act caused your injuries.
A York personal injury claim may involve:
- A driver running a red light
- A commercial truck driver ignoring traffic laws
- A property owner failing to repair a dangerous condition
- An employer ignoring workplace safety standards
- A manufacturer selling a defective product
To pursue compensation, your claim must generally establish:
- A duty of care owed to you
- A breach of that duty
- A direct link between the breach and your injuries
- Measurable damages
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation under Pennsylvania law.
When Should I Contact a Lawyer?
While every case is different, it is generally best to get in touch with a lawyer right away. If you call a lawyer early in the process, he or she will be better able to:
- Preserve evidence of the accident
- Protect you from saying something that could hurt your claim, such as damaging recorded statements
- Ensure deadlines are met, including deadlines for filing claims, appeals or lawsuits
- Clarify insurance issues
Even if you are unsure whether you have a claim, a consultation can provide clarity. If you wait too long, you could be hurting your chances of recovering full compensation.
Compensation Available for Personal Injuries
Depending on the severity of an injury, some victims may never fully return to full health. Future treatment and long term medical care can become an important component in the damages that are calculated for your lawsuit. Recovering significant compensation can help victims to afford the care that they need.
If your immediate needs are not covered by the insurance company, a lawyer can help discuss the legal options of suing the at-fault party for compensation. We have experience dealing with insurance companies and filing lawsuits to pursue compensation. We understand what it takes to be successful in both situations.
Pennsylvania law allows you to pursue various forms of compensation, including:
Medical Expenses
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses including the costs of all medical treatment received as a result of your injury and any required care in the future. This can include payment for hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medical tests, physical therapy sessions, medications, and more.
If you suffer a personal injury, document all medical expenses by keeping records of bills related to your treatment and recovery. This information can help a knowledgeable York personal injury lawyer calculate the value of your current medical expenses and determine the estimated cost of future treatments.
Lost Wages
If your injury has prevented you from working, you may be able to receive compensation for any lost wages. This includes wages lost when you were physically incapable of working, and wages lost when you were not at work because you were receiving treatment.
Calculating lost wages for some people can be difficult if you work as an independent contractor, business owner or seasonal worker. This is why you should consult with an attorney who can determine exactly how much income you have lost from your personal injury.
Loss of Earning Capacity
If you can no longer work or physically perform the essential functions of your job, you may be able to recover compensation for loss of earning capacity. If possible, ask your employer for a letter detailing your normal rate of pay, hours lost being unable to work, and the total amount of compensation lost as a result of your accident.
Suffering from a permanent physical disability such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury may also allow you to pursue compensation for the way your disability directly affects your decreased and future earning capacity. Consult with a personal injury attorney in York to discuss if your ability to earn money in the future will be impacted as a result of having a permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering depends on the type of injury and the duration of your recovery time. It accounts for any physical pain suffered and the severe discomfort endured during the accident and after your injury.
It can be difficult to calculate the monetary value of these damages because there are no bills for pain and suffering. Having a qualified York personal injury lawyer on your side who knows how to gather any relevant evidence to properly value pain and suffering damages can help you obtain the amount of compensation you deserve.
Loss of Companionship
In personal injury cases, loss of companionship damages relates to the impact your injuries have on your relationship with your spouse. This can include the inability to be affectionate or maintain a sexual relationship. It can also lead to emotional pain if your marriage ends in a divorce.
Recovering compensation for loss of companionship most often requires medical proof of sexual disability. Dealing with insurance companies may require you to also provide a written statement from your spouse describing intimate details which can make you uncomfortable. A personal injury attorney in York can handle negotiating these issues with insurance companies or claim adjusters on your behalf.
Property Damages
In addition to recovering compensation for physical and emotional injuries, you are entitled to compensation for property damage that resulted from the accident. This can include damage to any vehicles, clothing, cellphone, jewelry, or other items.
You can obtain compensation for the cost of replacing or repairing personal property damages. Our York personal injury lawyers can help you gather receipts for any damaged items and calculate the fair market value for each item.
Contact Schmidt Kramer so we can determine the amount of compensation available to you. We understand that recovering compensation for a personal injury cannot change what happened, but it can hopefully help you get closer to where you were before you were injured.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form today so we can start reviewing your case.
Proving a Personal Injury Case
Every personal injury case has four elements of negligence that must be proven in order to obtain the compensation you are entitled from the at-fault party. These include:
- Duty of care – This means the at-fault party was legally obligated to act in a reasonable manner to not cause you any harm or injury. We must show that he or she had a duty of care to behave the way a reasonable person would in a similar situation.
- Breached duty of care – This means that the at-fault party acted or failed to act as a reasonable person, breaching his or her duty of care. We must show that the at-fault party breached the duty of care in some way. For example, a duty of care could be breached if the other driver was speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Causation – This means there is a distinct link between the breach of duty of care and any injuries suffered. We must show that you would have not been injured were it not for the negligent actions of the at-fault party.
- Damages suffered – This means there were damages suffered as a result of your injury. We must show that your injuries led to damages, such as medical bills or lost wages from missing work.
If these elements are present, you may have a valid personal injury case and be entitled to maximum compensation. Call our personal injury attorneys in York to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.
Contact our office today by calling (717) 888-8888.
Who Could Be Held Liable for My Injury?
There are numerous parties that could be held liable for a personal injury in York, such as:
- Negligent drivers (distracted drivers, drunk drivers, reckless drivers, commercial truck drivers, etc.)
- Property owners
- Employers
- Manufacturers
- Government entities, such as entities responsible for maintaining and repairing roadways
In some cases, multiple parties share responsibility, which often happens in truck accident cases. Identifying all liable parties is critical to pursuing full compensation. At Schmidt Kramer, we have decades of experience investigating cases to gather evidence and determine all potentially liable parties.
Statute of Limitations for a Personal Injury Claim
There is a limit on the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after suffering some type of harm. This law is called a statute of limitations and once it expires, you lose the right to file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of the injury.
You may be able to obtain compensation through an insurance claim, but it can be a complicated process. It can take longer than you think, and the statute of limitations will continue to run while you are dealing with the insurance company. This is why it is so important to contact a York personal injury attorney to get the process started right away.
Our lawyers at Schmidt Kramer understand the time restraints that apply to your specific situation. We know how to deal with the insurance claims process while being prepared to file a lawsuit if we are unsuccessful.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve an Injury Claim in York?
It could take anywhere from a few months to several months or over a year to reach a resolution. The timeline for your case is going to depend on many factors, such as:
- Severity of injuries
- Complexity of liability
- Insurance negotiations and whether the insurance company denies or delays the process
- Court scheduling in York County
Some claims resolve in months. Others, particularly those involving serious injuries, may take longer, and often do.
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of injury. Missing this deadline may prevent you from filing a lawsuit.
What to Do After a Personal Injury
The moments following a personal injury can be confusing and overwhelming. You may not know what to do or who to turn to if you or a loved one is injured because of someone else’s negligence or recklessness.
By taking the following steps immediately after your accident, you can help ensure your well-being and preserve your claim for compensation:
Seek Medical Assistance
The first thing to do after an accident is seek medical attention for your injuries, even if you do not consider your injuries to be serious or life-threatening. Sometimes injuries appear less severe at first, only to become much more serious over time. If you wait to seek treatment, your injuries could progress and become more difficult to treat.
This is why it is important to be examined by a medical professional. A doctor can conduct a detailed medical examination to diagnose your injuries and provide you with the proper treatment plan.
Report the Incident
After a personal injury, file a police or accident report. Having an official report can help prove your claim and possibly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation from the insurance company. Ask for a copy of the report as well.
Be sure to be detailed and accurate when completing the report or providing information to the person completing the report. However, do not admit fault or wrongdoing. Let the investigation play out so all of the facts can come to light.
Even if you believe you were somewhat responsible, keep this to yourself because it could hurt your chances of recovering compensation. Your level of fault will be determined during the investigation.
Collect Evidence
Gather information at the scene by taking notes and photographs to help you remember all the details. Write down a description of what happened, where it happened, and how it happened. Take pictures of the scene, your injuries and anything else you think is important to capture.
As time passes, it can be difficult to recall information. This is why it is important to begin documenting things as soon as you have a chance. Otherwise you could forget important details that could affect the amount of compensation you can recover.
Talk to Witnesses
Whenever an accident happens, talk to witnesses who saw the event unfold. Write down the names, addresses and contact numbers from each eyewitness. Obtain a written statement if possible or take detailed notes on what they say they saw. It is possible they saw things you were unaware of that can help prove another party is at-fault for your injuries.
Contact a York, PA Lawyer
When a personal injury is caused by another person’s negligence, you may have the right to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation for any damages and injuries. A qualified attorney can review the details of your accident and injury and advise you on whether or not you have a valid personal injury claim.
A personal injury lawyer in York can investigate your accident and begin collecting evidence to help hold the at-fault parties liable for your injuries. We offer a free initial consultation to review your case and discuss the kinds of compensation available to you.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form to get started.
What Questions Should I Ask a York Personal Injury Lawyer?
There are many questions injured victims often ask when meeting with an attorney, such as:
- Do I have a viable claim under Pennsylvania law?
- Who may be liable?
- How will insurance affect my case?
- What damages may be available?
- What is the expected timeline?
Clear communication helps you make informed decisions.
Types of Personal Injury Cases
At Schmidt Kramer, our York personal injury attorneys have helped countless injury victims over the years. The types of personal injury cases we have handled include:
- Car accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Construction accidents
- Dog bites
- Bicycle accidents
- Defective products
- Truck accidents
- Nursing home abuse
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slip and falls
- Wrongful death
If you think you may have a personal injury case, you should seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who understands exactly what you or a loved one are going through.
The personal injury lawyers in York are familiar with different types of personal injury cases and can help determine if you have a valid claim.
Our firm is ready to schedule your free consultation: (717) 888-8888
Why Are York Personal Injury Claims Important?
A personal injury claim is about more than financial recovery. It is about restoring stability after an unexpected disruption.
Medical treatment in York, whether at local hospitals or specialty providers, can become expensive quickly. Lost wages may compound the strain. A successful claim may help you:
- Cover medical expenses
- Replace lost income
- Access ongoing rehabilitation
- Address long-term care needs
Personal injury claims also promote accountability. When negligent behavior causes harm, legal action can help reinforce safety standards within the community.
If you think you may have a valid case, call Schmidt Kramer today. We have the resources and experience to fight for the full compensation you need after an unexpected injury.
What if I Was Partially at Fault?
Pennsylvania is a modified comparative negligence state. What this means is that you are still able to recover compensation if you are partially to blame. That said, you can only recover compensation if you are under 51 percent responsible for the accident.
It is important to note, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were 10 percent responsible, your compensation is reduced by 10 percent.
York Personal Injury FAQs
How Do I Know if I Have a Valid Personal Injury Case?
You likely have a valid personal injury case if someone else’s negligence caused your injuries and you suffered measurable damages as a result. In Pennsylvania, this generally means showing that another party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused harm that led to medical bills, lost income, or other losses. Even if you are unsure who was at fault or whether your injuries are “serious enough,” a consultation can help clarify whether the facts support a claim and what your next steps should be.
Will I Have To Go To Court?
Most personal injury cases do not go to court and are resolved through settlement negotiations with insurance companies. However, if the insurer disputes liability, minimizes your injuries, or refuses to offer fair compensation, filing a lawsuit may become necessary to protect your rights. Even then, many cases settle before trial. If your case does proceed to court, your attorney would prepare you for each stage and advocate on your behalf throughout the process.
How Much is My Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on the specific facts, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, lost wages, and the long-term impact on your life. More serious or permanent injuries typically result in higher damages because they involve ongoing care, reduced earning capacity, and lasting pain or limitations. There is no fixed formula, and online estimates are often unreliable. A detailed evaluation of your medical records, employment information, and overall losses is necessary to determine what compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
What if the Insurance Company Already Offered Compensation?
If the insurance company has already made an offer, you are not required to accept it right away. Initial settlement offers are often made before the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs are known. Accepting too quickly may prevent you from seeking additional compensation later. Having the offer reviewed can help you understand whether it reasonably reflects your total damages, including future expenses and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering.
Can I Still Recover if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes, you may still recover compensation if you were partially at fault, provided you are less than 51 percent responsible under Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule. Your compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault. Determining fault percentages can be complex, and insurance companies may attempt to shift more blame onto you than is fair, which is why careful legal analysis can be important.
What if the Person Who Injured Me Does Not Have Insurance?
If the at-fault party does not have insurance, you may still have options. Your own auto policy may include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which can help cover medical expenses and other losses after a car accident. In other types of cases, there may be additional liable parties, such as employers or property owners, who carry insurance coverage. A thorough review of all available policies and potential defendants can help identify alternative sources of compensation.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Injury Claim?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer for a minor injury claim, but even seemingly minor injuries can lead to unexpected medical complications or insurance disputes. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your injuries or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Consulting with a lawyer can help you understand the value of your claim, avoid mistakes that could harm your case, and ensure that any settlement accounts for both current and future consequences of your injury.
What if My Injuries Did Not Appear Until Days After the Accident?
It is common for some injuries, such as concussions or soft tissue damage, to appear hours or days after an accident. You can still pursue a claim, but it is important to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms develop and document your condition thoroughly. Prompt medical evaluation helps establish a connection between the accident and your injuries. Delays in treatment may give insurance companies an opportunity to question causation, so acting quickly can help protect your claim.
Can I File a Personal Injury Claim on Behalf of a Loved One?
Yes, in certain situations you may be able to file a claim on behalf of a loved one. If the injured person is a minor, legally incapacitated, or unable to manage their own affairs, a parent, guardian, or legal representative may act on their behalf. In cases involving a fatal injury, a personal representative of the estate may pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases involve specific procedural requirements, so legal guidance can help ensure that filings are handled properly and within applicable deadlines.
What Happens if My Case Goes to Trial?
If your case goes to trial, both sides present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments before a judge or jury. The jury then determines whether the defendant is liable and, if so, the amount of compensation to award. Trials can take time and require detailed preparation, including gathering expert testimony and medical evidence. Your attorney would guide you through each step, explain what to expect, and advocate for your interests throughout the proceedings.
About York, Pennsylvania
York, Pennsylvania, is a city founded in 1741, that is just over five square miles. The city contains many historic homes, including the York County Colonial Courthouse. York was the capital of the U.S. until late June of 1778.
What County Is York Located In?
York is located in York County, Pennsylvania. This county is in South Central Pennsylvania. The city has a population of approximately 45,000 people.
Is York a Good Place to Live?
York offers a mix of historic neighborhoods, local businesses, and access to larger metropolitan areas like Harrisburg and Baltimore. It is generally considered to have an affordable cost of living. The city also has an attractive downtown area. The city also has the York County Heritage Rail Trail.
Cost of Living in York
The cost of living in York is generally lower than in many larger Pennsylvania cities, though medical and housing expenses still represent significant financial commitments. Apartments.com says the cost of living is about three to six percent below the national average. Rent ranges from $1,047 to $1,805.
What Is York Known For?
York is known for its industrial history, manufacturing roots, and cultural events that bring residents together throughout the year. This city was also the capital of the United States during the American Revolution, until late June of 1778.
Popular Attractions and Landmarks in York
York features historic architecture, local markets, and community events that reflect its heritage and civic pride. Historic landmarks include the Colonial Complex, the Central Market, York County History Center, York County Colonial Courthouse, Underground Railroad Museum and WellSpan Park.
Contact a York Personal Injury Attorney
If you or someone you love suffered an injury caused by someone else’s negligent or reckless actions, you have legal rights. Contact one of our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys in York to review your case and determine if you have a valid claim. We are dedicated to defending your best interests and fighting to obtain the compensation you are entitled.
At Schmidt Kramer, we have decades of experience helping personal injury victims like yourself and will aggressively pursue all options available to recover compensation for any economic and emotional damages suffered.
Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis which means no upfront costs or fees unless we help you recover favorable compensation.
Free Consultation. Ph: (717) 888-8888.