Car Accident Attorney in East Brunswick
Fighting For Auto Accident Victims in New Jersey
New Jersey has a staggering number of serious car accidents. As reported by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, there were a total of 278,413 collisions in a recent year, with 28,965 in Middlesex County alone, 3,974 causing injuries, and 28 deaths.
The consequences of an East Brunswick car accident can be significant, leaving an innocent person:
- Disfigured
- Disabled
- Facing many personal and physical challenges
The responsible party must be held accountable.
Have questions regarding NJ car accident laws? Call our East Brunswick car accident lawyer today at (732) 338-0785, or contact us online. The Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum is here to help.
Understanding New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance System
Engaging with New Jersey’s no-fault insurance system requires a thorough understanding of its unique aspects and its implications for car accident victims. In this system, each driver’s own insurance policy covers medical expenses and other financial losses regardless of who was at fault. Consequently, this can streamline the process of recouping losses related to injury treatment and lost wages, though it does limit the ability to pursue non-economic damages.
However, to step outside this system, one must meet certain legal thresholds, making it paramount to navigate these waters with informed legal counsel. The Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum leverages its extensive knowledge and experience to guide clients through this complex framework, ensuring they understand their rights and the scope of their potential claims, all while focusing on pursuing the maximum possible compensation.
What To Do When You Get in A Car Accident?
Getting into a car accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. It can be difficult to know what steps to take after such an incident. To start, it's important to prioritize your safety and take certain appropriate actions in the aftermath of an accident.
Here's what you should do if you find yourself in a car accident:
- Check for Injuries: First, ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers. Check for injuries and call emergency services immediately if anyone is hurt.
- Move to a Safe Area: If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call the Police: Even in minor accidents, it's a good idea to call the police to create an official accident report. This report can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other parties involved in the accident. Also, note the names of any passengers and witnesses.
- Document the Scene: If it's safe, take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any relevant landmarks or signs. This documentation can be useful for insurance claims.
- Limit Discussion: Avoid discussing fault or making admissions of guilt at the scene. Stick to the facts when talking to the other parties involved and the police.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with accurate information about the incident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't feel seriously injured, it's a good idea to seek medical attention to ensure there are no hidden injuries that might become more apparent later, such as a severe soft tissue injury.
- Obtain a Copy of the Accident Report: If the police respond to the scene, obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
- Consult with an Attorney: Call an experienced car accident attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.
- Be Cautious with Social Media: Avoid discussing the accident on social media, as posts and comments could be used against you in legal proceedings.
Addressing immediate safety and health concerns following a car accident is critical. It ensures that any medical issues are quickly identified and treated, preventing long-term complications. Moreover, acting swiftly helps in preserving crucial evidence such as witness statements and accident scene details, which are vital if a legal claim becomes necessary.
Additionally, navigating the aftermath of a car accident involves understanding insurance processes and state-specific laws. In New Jersey, for example, knowing the nuances of its no-fault insurance system can impact your compensation strategy. Discussing your case with a local attorney is pivotal in unraveling these complexities and safeguarding your rights.
Remember that each situation can be unique, and the steps you need to take might vary based on the severity of the accident and local laws. If you're unsure about what to do, call our firm today to discuss the details of your case.
Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, you need an attorney to assist you through the process of pursuing full and fair compensation.
Our lawyer provides experienced legal counsel in car accident cases in East Brunswick. When we take on a car accident case, our goal is to recover the maximum compensation possible. We devote all the resources of our firm to every case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
After experiencing a car accident, it's pivotal to steer clear from common mistakes that could undermine your case or compromise your rights. One key error is delaying medical treatment. Not seeking prompt medical attention can impact the perceived severity of injuries, thereby affecting compensation claims.
Another frequent pitfall is providing statements or signing documents without legal consultation. Insurance adjusters might pressure you to agree to settlements quickly; however, these offers may not reflect the true value of your losses. At Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum, our priority is ensuring every step, from talking to insurers to evaluating settlement offers, aligns with your best interests. By working with our experienced team, you can confidently navigate these challenges while focusing on recovery.
What Are the Most Common Types of Injuries in a Car Accident?
The types of injuries sustained in a car accident can range from minor to catastrophic to fatal.
The most common types of injuries suffered in a car crash include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Disfiguring injuries
- Internal injuries (bleeding, organ damage)
- Knee trauma
- Whiplash (muscle and tendon injuries)
- Broken ribs
- PTSD
An Overview of New Jersey Car Accident Laws
Your options for pursuing compensation after a car accident will largely depend on what type of insurance coverage is available in your case. NJ car accident laws can be confusing to navigate on your own.
An attorney from our firm can help you understand how these laws apply to your situation and guide you towards the most appropriate course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I File a Car Accident Claim in New Brunswick?
Filing a car accident claim in New Brunswick involves several crucial steps. Initially, notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible, providing accurate details and a copy of the police report if available. Documenting the scene with photographs and obtaining witness statements can strengthen your claim.
If you face complications or your claims are denied, consulting a local attorney can be beneficial. The Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum can assist you by handling communications with insurance companies, ensuring all necessary documentation is complete and accurate, and advocating on your behalf to seek the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, car accident victims can recover both economic and non-economic damages in certain situations. Economic damages include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and loss of income. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are recoverable under specific conditions, typically where permanent injuries are involved.
The complexities of eligibility for these damages can be daunting. At Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum, we aid clients by evaluating their case, calculating potential compensation, and advising on the best legal avenues to pursue, ensuring a thorough and strategic approach to each claim.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in New Brunswick?
New Jersey law stipulates a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit from the date of the car accident. Missing this deadline means forfeiting the right to seek damages through a lawsuit. Therefore, timely legal action is crucial.
Engaging with Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum promptly ensures all legal procedures are adhered to, maximizing your chances for a successful claim. Our legal team is committed to providing comprehensive assistance, from understanding statutory timelines to developing robust legal strategies tailored to your circumstances.
Is New Jersey a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?
New Jersey is one of about a dozen states that follows a no-fault car insurance system. This means that after an accident, you must first pursue compensation under your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage regardless of who caused the crash.
Understanding the no-fault system is crucial for New Jersey drivers since it dictates how medical bills and income losses are handled post-accident. Under this system, your insurance will cover your PIP claims up to policy limits, but you may still be left with out-of-pocket expenses if damages exceed these limits. Knowing when and how you can seek additional legal action is essential, and professional guidance can clarify these circumstances.
Moreover, while PIP covers economic losses, recovering non-economic damages such as pain and suffering requires meeting specific legal criteria. In cases of severe injury, an experienced attorney can help determine eligibility for pursuing a claim against an at-fault driver, navigating the exceptions to no-fault laws.
Basic required car insurance coverage in New Jersey is as follows:
- $5,000 in Property Damage Liability coverage
- $15,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, per person, per accident
What Is PIP?
PIP coverage provides compensation for the medical bills and other out-of-pocket losses of anyone covered under the policy up to coverage limits, no matter who was responsible for the collision.
The tradeoff of this type of system is that injured parties are not compensated for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Non-economic damages may only be recovered by filing a personal lawsuit against the responsible party, though this is only allowed under certain circumstances.
Injured persons in New Jersey with only a “Basic” car insurance policy may only pursue legal action against an at-fault driver outside of the PIP system if the accident caused the injured person to suffer:
- The loss of a body part
- Significant or permanent scarring or disfigurement
- A displaced fracture
- The loss of a fetus
- Permanent injury
- Death (in which case the family may pursue a wrongful death claim)
Drivers have the option of purchasing a “standard policy” which includes bodily injury liability coverage on top of this, though this is not required in the state of New Jersey. Those who choose a standard policy can choose between “limited right to sue” and “unlimited right to sue” options.
Under the “limited right to sue” option, you may only step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim for pain and suffering directly against the at-fault driver if your injuries meet the above criteria, whereas those with an “unlimited right to sue” policy are not bound by this limitation.
It is important to note that these no-fault rules only apply to injuries caused by car accidents. Vehicle damage claims may be pursued against an at-fault driver in New Jersey without limitations.
Have you or a loved one been in a car accident in NJ? Contact our firm today to schedule your free consultation.
Car Accident Reporting Laws in NJ
New Jersey law requires you to report any motor vehicle accident that causes:
- Injury
- Death
- Or more than $500 worth of property damage
The best way to report an accident is to immediately call 911 or your local police department.
Additionally, you (or the owner of the vehicle, if it is someone other than you) will need to file a written report within 10 days of your collision.
Accurate reporting not only fulfills legal obligations but also ensures that critical details are captured by law enforcement, which could play a fundamental role in subsequent legal proceedings. This report often serves as essential evidence in insurance and court claims, facilitating the right course of action for compensation pursuits.
Failing to report timely or accurately can lead to setbacks in claim processes and potential fines or suspensions. Thus, knowing the correct procedure and adhering to state-specific reporting mandates is imperative for protecting your rights and legal standing in the event of disputes.
You are not required to file a report if a police officer does this for you. Knowingly failing to report an accident can result in a $100 fine and a suspension of your driving privileges.
What Is the Statute of Limitations For Car Accident Lawsuits in NJ?
East Brunswick Car Accident lawsuits in New Jersey are subject to a filing deadline known as a "statute of limitations." This time limit essentially places a hard deadline on how long an injured person has to pursue legal action.
In New Jersey, you typically only have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
If you attempt to file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations period has expired, your case will likely be dismissed and you will be unable to recover any compensation for your losses.
Speedy legal consultation post-accident is vital. It provides the necessary buffer to adequately investigate, strategize, and prepare a case, avoiding complications associated with racing against the statute of limitations. Immediate legal engagement ensures crucial evidence is preserved and analyzed, positioning the case favorably from the outset.
Even when settlements appear promising, a looming statute of limitations should be a prompt for proactive legal maneuvers. Engaging with attorneys early can safeguard your rights to litigation should negotiations fail, thereby securing a channel to pursue full reparations under the law.
For this reason, even if you expect your case to be resolved through a pending insurance claim, it is crucial you get an experienced New Jersey car accident attorney involved as early as possible after your collision to give yourself enough time to prepare for a potential lawsuit.
What Are the Most Common Types of Car Accidents?
Our firm represents the injured in a range of car accident cases, including but not limited to:
- Side impact collisions (T-bone)
- Drunk driving accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Rollovers
- Rear-end collisions
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Uber and Lyft accidents
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyer in East Brunswick Today
At Law Office of Howard S. Teitelbaum, we have been successfully representing clients since 1978. Led by founding attorney Howard S. Teitelbaum, we have vast experience in negotiating a fair settlement and at trial to achieve justice for the people we serve. Our firm was established to provide personal service, and we limit our caseload to ensure we have all the time needed to devote to every case.
Call (732) 338-0785 today for a free initial consultation with our East Brunswick car accident attorney.
