Somerset County Car Accident Lawyers
Somerset County car accidents disrupt lives instantly; severe ones leave people with injuries, financial difficulties, and unanswered questions about their legal rights. The aftermath often involves medical expenses, property damage, and time away from work. The chances for fair compensation vary and depend on the choices you make, including your choice of legal representation.
The Somerset County car accident lawyers at Ellis Law focus on helping individuals injured in car accidents obtain justice. Every case is different, and we believe in providing personalized service and examining client cases from every possible angle.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Car Accidents?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, depending on factors like the speed of the vehicles involved and the point of impact. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, and head trauma. More severe accidents may cause spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, or permanent disabilities.
Even seemingly minor injuries should not be overlooked, as their symptoms can worsen over time. It is best to seek a medical evaluation immediately following an accident for an early diagnosis and treatment plan. Your medical records also help establish the connection between the accident and the injuries sustained.
What Steps Should I Take After a Car Accident?
After a car accident, prioritizing safety and gathering information is key. First, check for injuries and contact emergency services. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic into a safer area, like a shoulder or parking log.
Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact details, as their statements may be valuable in supporting your claim.
Ask the responding officers about obtaining a copy of the police report; get that as soon as you can, as it can serve as valuable evidence. You can contact our Somerset County car accident lawyers before calling our insurance company; we can advise you about what to tell them in order to protect your interests.
How Is Fault Determined in a Car Accident Case?
Fault in a car accident is determined by examining the circumstances of the collision and the actions of each party involved. In New Jersey, comparative negligence laws apply, which means each party’s level of fault is assessed. If you are found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and other evidence can be leveraged to help establish fault. The actions of each driver, including speeding, distracted driving, or failure to obey traffic signals, will also be considered. Insurance companies and legal representatives often analyze this evidence to determine liability and assess claims.
What Compensation Is Available After a Car Accident?
Compensation for car accident claims may include economic and non-economic damages:
- Economic damages cover measurable losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage. These costs can often be substantiated with receipts, invoices, and employment records.
- Non-economic damages account for less tangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. The extent of these damages depends on the severity of injuries and their impact on daily activities.
- In cases involving reckless behavior by the other party, punitive damages may also be awarded, though these are less common.
What Are the Filing Deadlines for Car Accident Claims in New Jersey?
The statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in New Jersey is generally two years from the date of the accident. This deadline applies to personal injury claims and is important for preserving your right to seek compensation. Property damage claims may have a different timeframe, so it is important to address these matters promptly. Our Somerset County car accident lawyers can explain your deadlines and help you meet them on time.
What Are Common Challenges in Car Accident Claims?
Car accident claims can present various challenges, including disputes over liability and the valuation of damages. Insurance companies may argue that injuries were pre-existing or that the claimant’s actions contributed to the accident. New Jersey’s comparative negligence law further complicates cases where fault is shared between parties.
Another challenge involves obtaining and preserving evidence. Over time, accident scenes change, and witness recollections may fade, making early documentation critical. Additionally, demonstrating the long-term impact of injuries may require extensive medical documentation and professional opinions. Our Somerset County car accident lawyers address these obstacles and present a clear, compelling case.
What if My Insurance Company Denies My Car Accident Claim?
You can take these steps if your insurance company denies your car accident claim:
- Review the denial letter to understand the reason.
- Check your policy for coverage details and ensure you meet all claim requirements. You can appeal the decision by providing additional evidence, such as police reports, medical records, or photos of the accident.
- If the issue persists, consider working with a lawyer to challenge the denial.
Our Somerset County car accident lawyers can negotiate or pursue further action to protect your rights.
How Does Defensive Driving Prevent Car Accidents?
Defensive driving helps prevent car accidents by encouraging drivers to anticipate and respond to potential hazards proactively. This driving approach emphasizes maintaining focus, staying alert, and avoiding distractions like using a phone or eating. Defensive drivers monitor their surroundings, including the behavior of other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions. By maintaining safe following distances and adhering to speed limits, they allow enough time to react to sudden changes, such as abrupt stops or debris on the road.
Defensive driving also involves expecting the unexpected, like other drivers running red lights or failing to signal. Techniques like scanning the road ahead, using mirrors frequently, and maintaining a calm, patient mindset further reduce risk. By prioritizing safety and awareness, defensive driving minimizes errors and improves reaction time, ultimately reducing the likelihood of accidents.
The Dedicated Somerset County Car Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law Can Evaluate Your Case
Our knowledgeable Somerset County car accident lawyers at Ellis Law help individuals understand their legal options and guide them toward successful resolution. For a free consultation, submit our online form or call 732-308-0200. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
