Personal Injury Attorney Serving Catasauqua, PA - Michael A. Snover, Esq.
If you have been injured in Catasauqua, PA, call Michael A. Snover, Esq. at (484) 821-1005 for a free consultation. Mr. Snover has practiced personal injury law in Pennsylvania for approximately 39 years, serving injured residents throughout Lehigh County and the Lehigh Valley. He earned his Juris Doctor from Dickinson School of Law at Pennsylvania State University in 1987 and was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar that same year. As a sole practitioner since 1997, Mr. Snover provides direct, personal attention to every client from his Bethlehem office, just minutes from Catasauqua. He handles all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless he recovers compensation for you.
At a Glance: Michael A. Snover, Esq.
- Attorney: Michael A. Snover, Esq. – JD, Dickinson School of Law, Penn State (1987); BA, Moravian College (1984)
- Bar Admissions: Pennsylvania (1987), New Jersey (1988)
- Phone: (484) 821-1005
- Office: 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B25, Bethlehem, PA 18020
- Fee Structure: Contingency fee basis – no fee unless you recover compensation
- Service Area: Northampton County including Bethlehem, Easton, Hellertown, Northampton Borough, Bangor, Wilson, Bath, Fountain Hill, and Freemansburg
Why Catasauqua Residents Choose Michael A. Snover
Catasauqua is a close-knit borough along the Lehigh River with a rich industrial heritage. The community faces specific risks that can lead to serious injuries. Route 329 carries heavy traffic through town, creating opportunities for auto accidents. Active rail crossings present hazards for drivers and pedestrians. Older commercial properties and sidewalks can lead to slip and fall injuries. Workers in local manufacturing and distribution facilities may suffer workplace injuries covered by Pennsylvania workers compensation law.
Mr. Snover understands these local conditions because he has served Lehigh Valley communities for nearly four decades. His office in Bethlehem is a short drive from Catasauqua, making in-person meetings convenient. When your case requires court proceedings, Catasauqua falls within the jurisdiction of the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas in Allentown.
With a Bachelor of Arts from Moravian College earned in 1984 and admission to the New Jersey Bar in 1988, Mr. Snover brings a broad educational foundation and multi-state perspective to Pennsylvania personal injury claims. He has operated his own practice for approximately 29 years, giving him complete control over case strategy and client communication.
Personal Injury
Personal injury law covers a wide range of accidents and incidents where another party’s negligence causes you harm. Under Pennsylvania law, you have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is set by 42 Pa.C.S. Section 5524. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation forever.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule known as the 51% bar rule. You can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault for your accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible for your accident and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
Mr. Snover represents Catasauqua residents in all types of personal injury claims. He works on a contingency fee basis, so you face no financial risk in pursuing your case. Call (484) 821-1005 to discuss your situation during a free consultation.
Workers Compensation
If you were injured at work in Catasauqua, you may be entitled to benefits under the Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Act. This system provides wage loss benefits typically calculated at 66.67% of your average weekly wage. It also covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury. Specific loss benefits may apply if you suffered permanent damage to a body part.
Workers compensation operates as a no-fault system. You do not need to prove your employer was negligent. In exchange, you generally cannot sue your employer in civil court for workplace injuries. However, if a third party caused your injury, such as a defective equipment manufacturer, you may have a separate personal injury claim.
The workers compensation process involves filing claims, attending independent medical examinations, and potentially challenging benefit denials. Mr. Snover guides Catasauqua workers through this process and fights to maximize their benefits. His contingency fee arrangement means you pay nothing unless he secures compensation for you.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes patient harm. Pennsylvania has specific procedural requirements for these claims. Before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, you must obtain a Certificate of Merit signed by a licensed medical professional. This requirement is found in Pa.R.C.P. 1042.3. The certificate must state that there is a reasonable probability that the care provided fell below acceptable professional standards.
The two-year statute of limitations under 42 Pa.C.S. Section 5524 applies to medical malpractice cases. This deadline runs from the date of injury, though Pennsylvania recognizes a discovery rule that may extend this period in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent.
Mr. Snover handles medical malpractice claims for Catasauqua residents and works with qualified medical professionals to evaluate potential cases. These claims require substantial investigation and documentation. Contact his office at (484) 821-1005 to discuss whether you have a viable medical malpractice claim.
Auto Accidents
Car accidents are common in and around Catasauqua. Route 329 sees significant traffic, and the borough’s proximity to Lehigh Valley International Airport brings additional vehicles through local roads. Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault state for auto insurance, which directly affects your legal options after a crash.
Limited Tort vs. Full Tort in Pennsylvania
| Features | Limited Tort | Full Tort |
|---|---|---|
| Right to sue for pain and suffering | Restricted to serious injuries only | Full right to sue for any injury |
| Insurance Premium | Lower monthly cost | Higher monthly cost |
| Serious Injury Threshold | Must prove death, serious impairment, or permanent disfigurement | No threshold required |
| Best For | Drivers seeking lower premiums who accept limited legal rights | Drivers who want full legal protection after accidents |
| Exceptions | May sue with full rights if other driver was DUI, out-of-state, or uninsured | No exceptions needed |
Your tort election appears on your auto insurance policy. If you chose limited tort to save money on premiums, you may still recover full damages if you suffered a serious injury or if certain exceptions apply. Mr. Snover can review your policy and accident details to determine your legal options.
Motorcycle accidents also fall under Mr. Snover’s practice areas. Motorcyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries and face bias from insurance companies. Catasauqua riders injured in crashes should seek legal representation promptly.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Property owners in Pennsylvania have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to address hazards like wet floors, broken stairs, icy walkways, or damaged pavement, they may be liable for resulting injuries. These premises liability claims require proving that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
Catasauqua has many older commercial buildings, sidewalks, and residential properties. Age and weather conditions can create slip and fall hazards throughout the borough. If you were injured on someone else’s property in Catasauqua, document the scene with photographs if possible and seek medical attention immediately.
The two-year statute of limitations applies to slip and fall claims. Mr. Snover investigates these cases thoroughly, gathering evidence of the hazardous condition and the property owner’s negligence. Call (484) 821-1005 to discuss your slip and fall accident during a free consultation.
Wrongful Death
When someone dies due to another party’s negligence, Pennsylvania law allows certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim. Spouses, children, and parents of the deceased may be entitled to compensation for their losses. A separate survival action allows recovery for damages the deceased person suffered between the injury and death.
Wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania must be filed within two years under 42 Pa.C.S. Section 5524. These cases often arise from fatal car accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, or defective products. The compensation may include funeral expenses, lost income the deceased would have earned, and loss of companionship.
Mr. Snover understands that no legal case can replace a loved one. However, he works to secure financial stability for grieving families in Catasauqua and throughout Lehigh County. His compassionate approach and contingency fee structure allow families to pursue justice without financial strain.
How to Start Your Case in Catasauqua, PA
- Call (484) 821-1005 for a Free Consultation: Describe your accident or injury to Mr. Snover’s office. Initial consultations are free with no obligation.
- Gather Your Documents: Collect any accident reports, medical records, photographs, witness contact information, and insurance documents. Bring these to your consultation.
- Meet with Mr. Snover: Visit his office at 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B25, Bethlehem, PA 18020. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. He will review your case and explain your legal options.
- Case Investigation Begins: If you decide to proceed, Mr. Snover will investigate your claim, gather evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Negotiation or Litigation: Most cases settle through negotiation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Mr. Snover will file suit in the appropriate court, such as the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas in Allentown.
- Resolution: You receive your compensation after the case concludes. Remember, you pay no attorney fees unless Mr. Snover recovers money for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law gives you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This statute of limitations is found in 42 Pa.C.S. Section 5524. If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation. Contact an attorney promptly after any injury in Catasauqua to protect your legal rights.
What does contingency fee basis mean?
Contingency fee basis means you pay no attorney fees unless your lawyer recovers compensation for you. Michael A. Snover handles all personal injury cases this way. There are no upfront costs or hourly charges. His fee comes as a percentage of your settlement or verdict. If there is no recovery, you owe no attorney fees.
Which court handles personal injury cases from Catasauqua?
Catasauqua is located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. Personal injury lawsuits from Catasauqua are typically filed in the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas, which is located in Allentown. Mr. Snover handles cases in this court and throughout the Lehigh Valley region.
What is the difference between limited tort and full tort auto insurance in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania allows drivers to choose between limited tort and full tort coverage. Limited tort costs less but restricts your right to sue for pain and suffering unless you suffer a serious injury. Full tort coverage costs more but preserves your full right to sue after any accident. Your tort election affects your legal options after a car accident in Catasauqua.
Can I sue my employer if I was injured at work in Catasauqua?
Generally, no. Pennsylvania workers compensation is an exclusive remedy system. You receive benefits regardless of fault, but you cannot sue your employer in civil court for workplace injuries. However, if a third party caused your injury, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, you may have a separate personal injury claim against that party.
What benefits does Pennsylvania workers compensation provide?
Pennsylvania workers compensation provides wage loss benefits typically calculated at 66.67% of your average weekly wage. It also covers all reasonable medical treatment for your work injury. Specific loss benefits may apply for permanent injuries to body parts. You do not need to prove your employer was at fault to receive these benefits.
What is a Certificate of Merit in Pennsylvania medical malpractice cases?
A Certificate of Merit is a document required by Pa.R.C.P. 1042.3 before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in Pennsylvania. It must be signed by a licensed medical professional stating that there is reasonable probability the healthcare provider’s conduct fell below acceptable standards. This requirement ensures that medical malpractice claims have merit before proceeding.
How does Pennsylvania's comparative negligence rule work?Where is Michael A. Snover's office located?
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. You can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault for your accident. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages from the other party.
How much does it cost to consult with Michael A. Snover about my injury?
Initial consultations with Michael A. Snover are free. You can call (484) 821-1005 to discuss your Catasauqua injury case at no cost and with no obligation. If you decide to hire Mr. Snover, he works on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless he recovers compensation for you.
Where is Michael A. Snover's office located?
Mr. Snover’s office is located at 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B25, Bethlehem, PA 18020. This location is convenient for Catasauqua residents, just a short drive from the borough. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. Call (484) 821-1005 to schedule your free consultation.
Read What Our Clients Say About Us
A History of Success
I just signed myself up with attorney Snover and had previously hired a different attorney but wasn’t satisfied with him. I then went to attorney Snover and he took my car accident case and is now helping me with my injury settlement. He is extremely knowledgeable at what he does, takes the time to talk with you and to fully understand your case. I highly recommend this place for your attorney needs.
