Auto accidents are a huge issue in the U.S. in general, but are at high rates in New Jersey specifically. According to research, negligence is the most-cited reason for car accidents. Out of all the car accidents in The Garden State, more than 59,000 resulted in injuries, and more than 500 caused deaths. In most of these cases, car drivers choose not to follow the rules of the road or adhere to traffic laws. They don’t care about following safety precautions and sometimes aren’t even paying attention while driving.
Some Common Types of Car Accidents That Negligent Drivers Cause Can Include:
- Texting While Driving
- Driving Above Speed Limit
- Rear-End Car Accidents
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Failure to Stop or Yield at Stop Signs
- Failure to Stop or Yield for Pedestrians
- Running Red Lights Illegally
When a driver is willingly irresponsible, horrific consequences can follow for law-abiding drivers. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is imperative that you work with a motivated car accident attorney in New Jersey. Your advocate will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve, even when large insurance companies get involved. Perhaps, and just as important, your lawyer will work closely with police and specialists to narrow down who is responsible for your pain and suffering.
How Can I Be Compensated From A Car Accident?
Medical Expenses
Hospital costs, doctor visits, medical equipment, medical transportation and more are labeled under this category
Loss of Wages
Even if you are unable to work, bills still need to be paid. In a car accident you may be eligible for compensation for wages expected to be earned it you have not been in the accident.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain suffered from injuries resulting from the car accident. Compensation is based on injury type, extent of pain and expected duration of suffering.
Mental Anguish
Emotional suffering can also result from a car accident. Grief embarrassment, nervousness, worry, and fright are only a few examples for emotional suffering.
Loss of Consortium
If a spouse is lost due to a car accident, the marital partner of the deceased spouse may be able to recover marital benefits, affection and comfort.
Car Accident FAQs
Immediately after a car accident it is very important to gather as much information as possible. You want to support your claim with as much information as possible. It is best to keep cool, calm, and collective when approaching those who have been a part of the accident. Here is what you should get:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Driver License (best to take a picture)
- Photos of the scene and damage
- Verify owner of the vehicle
- If the driver is not the owner, collect the name and phone number of the vehicle owner if possible.
- Insurance Company (best to take a picture)
- Car Insurance Policy Number
- License Plate Number
- Make and model of the vehicle
Within 24 hours of your accident it is best practice to contact your car insurance provider. Some car insurance policies may indicate, within fine lines of the policy, there is a specific time frame allowed to report an accident. For this reason, the sooner you get in contact with your car insurance provider the better.
In addition, you should also contact an attorney about your car accident. Remember, you want to make sure you know all your rights and fully understand the policies of your insurance. Do not allow other patients to take advantage of the accident.
Depending on where the accident occurred and the address associated with the car insurance policy can determine your coverage. If you live in a “no-fault” state, your car insurance covers your medical expenses – up to a certain limit. If your medical treatment and expenses go beyond the allowed policy limitations, you can request compensation outside of the no-fault system for your serious injuries through a lawsuit.
For cases of “fault” insurance, a lawsuit is recommended, from the beginning, to help with the financial burden of medical treatment and expenses of serious or significant injuries. Keep in mind, if the defendant does not have enough financial cash or assets to support the expenses, they may not be able to fully pay court orders.
It is best to contact an attorney immediately (within 24 hours of the accident) to clarify your policy and rights.
A car accident starts the beginning of a long list of problems. Fully understanding your rights and navigating an insurance claim can be burdensome and lengthy when done alone. Furthermore, most insurance companies try to settle the claim for less than its actual worth. This means you get less. Having an experienced attorney on your side gives you the support you require for a successful claim. The attorney’s at NJ Hurt Law understand state law’s, know how to gather supportive evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf so you can focus on your health and family.
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