Driving in and around Philadelphia comes with its fair share of challenges, such as tight city streets, unpredictable traffic patterns, and aggressive drivers. Unfortunately, that also means accidents are a common part of life on the road. According to the City of Philadelphia, there were 84 fatal crashes in Philly in 2024.
At Direct Paint & Collision, we’ve seen just about every kind of fender bender and major collision walk through our shop doors.
Whether you’re commuting down I-76, driving through South Philly, or just trying to park in a crowded lot, it’s important to understand the most common causes of accidents in the Philadelphia area, and what to do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Philadelphia
Distracted Driving
Phones, GPS, food, passengers—you name it. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents everywhere, but it’s especially dangerous in a busy city like Philly, where traffic changes fast and pedestrians seem to appear out of nowhere.
Aggressive Driving
Tailgating, frequent lane changes, and road rage are all too common on Philadelphia’s roads. Whether it’s the Schuylkill Expressway or Roosevelt Boulevard, aggressive driving often leads to unnecessary collisions.
Bad Weather
Snow, ice, and heavy rain can quickly turn a normal commute into a slippery mess. Philadelphia winters especially bring a spike in rear-end collisions due to poor visibility and reduced stopping distance.
Failure to Yield
Philly’s complex intersections, bike lanes, and one-way streets mean drivers need to be extra alert. Failing to yield—whether to oncoming traffic, cyclists, or pedestrians—is a major cause of side-impact crashes in the city.
Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers: What to Do If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance
Unfortunately, not everyone on the road carries proper insurance. If you’re hit by a driver without insurance—or with too little coverage—you may be left wondering how to get your car repaired and your medical bills covered.
While Pennsylvania fares better than average, there’s still a significant chance—about 1 in 13 drivers—of encountering someone without insurance on the road.
- First, stay calm and call the police. Even in minor accidents, having an official report will help your insurance company process your claim and protect you legally.
- Next, gather as much information as you can: driver’s license (if available), license plate number, photos of the scene, and contact info for any witnesses.
- Then, contact your insurance provider. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it can help pay for repairs and medical bills. If not, you may need to file a lawsuit or pay out-of-pocket.
Here’s where we can help.
Trust Direct Paint & Collision with Your Repair Needs
At Direct Paint & Collision, we understand how stressful accidents can be—especially when the other driver doesn’t have insurance. That’s why we work directly with your insurance provider to make the repair process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Whether it’s a bumper replacement, frame work, paint correction, or major collision repair, our team is known throughout the Philadelphia area for fast, reliable, and high-quality work. We’ve served drivers from Springfield, Broomall, Media, and beyond for over 30 years.
If you’ve been in an accident, give Direct Paint & Collision a call. We’re here to help with expert repairs, insurance coordination, and the trusted customer service you deserve.