New Jersey Car Accident: 10 Frequently Asked Questions

Car accidents can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. They are unfortunately quite common in New Jersey and can happen to anyone, regardless of how careful or skilled a driver they may be. If you have been involved in a car accident, you likely have many questions and concerns about your legal rights and options. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about car accidents in New Jersey.

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident?

After a car accident, the first priority should be to ensure that everyone involved is safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. The police report will be important for any insurance claims or legal actions you may take later on. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles and any injuries you or others may have sustained. If the accident is minor, move the vehicles to a safe location and exchange information with the other driver. This information includes names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers.

2. When should I contact my insurance company after a car accident?

You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after a car accident. Your insurance company will need to know about the accident, even if you were not at fault. They will provide you with instructions on how to file a claim.

3. Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?

It’s generally best to avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company directly, as they may try to use your statements against you to reduce or deny your claim. Instead, you should notify your own insurance company of the accident and let them handle communication with the other driver’s insurer.

4. What should I do if the other driver does not have insurance?

If the other driver does not have insurance, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance company. You may also want to consult with a motor vehicle accident attorney to explore your legal options if you are involved in an accident caused by uninsured or underinsured motorists.

5. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are some exceptions and nuances to this rule, so it’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that you don’t miss any important deadlines.

6. What damages can I recover in a car accident claim?

You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. The amount of damages you can recover depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

7. Who is responsible for paying for damages and injuries in a New Jersey car accident?

In New Jersey, the driver who is determined to be at fault for the car accident is responsible for paying for damages and injuries. If you are not at fault, you may be able to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit against them to recover damages.

8. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, your damages may be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. However, if you were more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover any damages.

9. How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in New Jersey?

Most car accident lawyers in New Jersey work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. Their fees are typically a percentage of your settlement or verdict, and they are agreed upon upfront.

10. Should I hire a car accident attorney?

While it is not always necessary to hire a lawyer for a car accident case, it is often a good idea, especially if you have suffered significant injuries or damages. If you have been involved in a car accident due to cell phone use and texting, distracted driving, drunk driving, a highway accident, an intersection accident, a left turn accident, or a rear-end collision, it may be necessary to consult with an attorney for legal representation and guidance.

Hiring a car accident attorney will ensure that your rights are protected. They can help you navigate the complex legal and insurance issues involved in car accident cases, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

Contact Lombardi & Lombardi Today For a Free Consultation About Your Motor Vehicle Accident 

When you’ve been in a car accident, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. That’s where Lombardi & Lombardi comes in. Our experienced car accident lawyers have a deep understanding of the complexities of car accident cases in New Jersey and have a proven track record of success in representing clients throughout the state. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

At Lombardi & Lombardi, we believe that every client deserves personalized attention and dedicated representation. We will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a customized legal strategy tailored to your unique needs and goals. We know that dealing with a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Let us help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced car accident lawyers. We will help you understand your legal rights and options and work with you to develop a plan of action to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.