Car Accident Lawyers

Who Should I Hire as My Lawyer After a Car Accident in Wilkes-Barre?

O’Donnell Law Offices represents people injured in car accidents throughout Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, and Northeastern Pennsylvania. After a serious crash, choosing the right lawyer can make an important difference. You need a legal team that understands the local community, knows how insurance companies handle injury claims, and is prepared to take action when your future is at stake.

Deep Local Ties: O’Donnell Law Offices has longstanding roots in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Neil and Michael O’Donnell grew up in the region, and the firm’s attorneys have spent decades serving individuals and families throughout Wilkes-Barre and Luzerne County.
Respected Legal Leadership: Neil O’Donnell is an experienced Pennsylvania trial attorney who has argued before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and has received recognition from organizations including Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers in America®.
More Than 35 Years Representing Injured People: O’Donnell Law Offices has recovered millions of dollars for clients in car accident cases, truck crashes, serious personal injury matters, and wrongful death claims.
Experience Dealing With Insurance Companies: After a crash, insurance carriers may begin investigating immediately. O’Donnell Law Offices can gather evidence, communicate with insurers, document damages, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Committed to the Wilkes-Barre Community: The attorneys at O’Donnell Law Offices are actively involved in the region through professional organizations, community leadership, and support for local nonprofits, including involvement with the Wilkes-Barre Law & Library Association.
No Attorney Fee Unless We Recover Compensation: Car accident cases are handled on a contingency-fee basis. There is no upfront attorney fee, and consultations are always free.

If you were injured in a car accident in Wilkes-Barre, O’Donnell Law Offices can help investigate the crash, determine who may be responsible, handle communications with the insurance companies, and help you understand your options for pursuing compensation.

Consultations are always free. Contact O’Donnell Law Offices to speak with a Wilkes-Barre car accident lawyer about your case.

Trust the Local Team at O’Donnell Law Offices to Help You Get Justice

Car accidents—or crashes—can happen in an instant. Whether you’re navigating the Cross Valley Expressway, making a turn downtown near Public Square, or merging onto I-81, a single moment of distraction or negligence can change your life.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash in Wilkes-Barre or Luzerne County, you need a law firm that knows the roads, the courts, and the community. You need O’Donnell Law Offices—your trusted local advocates for over 35 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Car Crashes Are Common in Wilkes-Barre

High-volume intersections, heavy commuter traffic, and unpredictable weather all contribute to the frequency of car accidents in Wilkes-Barre. Common causes include:

Distracted or texting drivers
Speeding near schools and shopping centers
Reckless or aggressive driving on Route 309 or River Street
Rear-end crashes during rush hour
Commercial vehicle accidents along I-81

Crashes like these can leave victims facing long recoveries, lost income, and mounting medical bills. Insurance companies often try to pressure you into settling quickly—but you don’t have to face this process alone.

What to Do After a Crash in Wilkes-Barre

If you’ve been in an accident:

Call 911 and file a police report
Seek medical care—even if you feel okay
Document the crash scene (photos, witness info, vehicle details)
Do not speak with the insurance company before getting legal advice
Contact O’Donnell Law Offices for a free consultation

Why should I choose O’Donnell Law Offices for a car crash claim?

Deep local roots in Wilkes-Barre: Founding attorney Neil O’Donnell and Michael O’Donnell both grew up in Wilkes-Barre, providing local insight and commitment.
Track record of over 35 years serving the region: the firm has recovered substantial sums for clients in car and truck crash and wrongful-death cases.
Respected leadership: Neil O’Donnell has argued before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and earned recognition from legal organizations.
Community involvement: The firm is engaged locally through leadership, non-profit support, and legal community organizations.

Where does the firm serve besides Wilkes-Barre?

O’Donnell Law Offices serves Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, and the surrounding areas of Luzerne County and greater Northeastern Pennsylvania.

What types of damages can I claim after a car accident?

While every case is unique, typical recoverable damages may include:

Medical bills (past and future)
Lost income and lost earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage
In some cases, punitive damages if the defendant’s conduct was especially reckless

Your attorney can evaluate the facts of your crash to identify which apply.

Will the insurance company settle quickly?

Insurance companies often try to settle early and for a lesser amount, hoping to minimize their exposure. It’s important not to sign anything or agree to a settlement before consulting an experienced lawyer. A law firm familiar with the local courts and insurers (such as O’Donnell Law Offices) can negotiate on your behalf and fight for the full value of your case.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal-injury claims stemming from car accidents is two years from the date of the accident. Delaying action can jeopardize your right to recover. It’s best to contact an attorney promptly to preserve your rights and gather timely evidence.

What happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or enough insurance?

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient liability insurance — or any insurance at all — options may include:

Accessing your own underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, if applicable.

Exploring other legal theories depending on the facts (e.g., employer liability if the other driver was working at the time).
An attorney experienced in car-accident law can review your insurance policy, evaluate coverage options, and guide you through the appropriate strategy.

What if I’m partially at fault for the crash?

Pennsylvania follows a “comparative fault” rule: even if you are partly at fault, you may still recover damages — reduced by your percentage of fault. A qualified local attorney can help assess fault issues, gather evidence (such as traffic-cam footage, witness statements, police reports), and advocate for you in negotiations or trial if needed.

Looking for the Best Car Accident Lawyer Near Wilkes-Barre?

O’Donnell Law Offices has earned recognition from Best Lawyers®, and firm founder Neil T. O’Donnell was named the 2026 Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

For people injured in car accidents in Wilkes-Barre and Luzerne County, this peer-reviewed recognition reflects the experience and reputation behind the attorneys at O’Donnell Law Offices.

View Neil T. O’Donnell’s Best Lawyers® Profile →

Get Justice After a Car Accident in Wilkes-Barre with O’Donnell Law Offices

At O’Donnell Law Offices, we know what you’re going through—because we live here, too. When you’re hurt, we fight to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, or the surrounding areas, contact O’Donnell Law Offices today. We’re ready to stand with you—and get you the justice you deserve.