Best Car Accident Lawyers in Newark, DE

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Newark, Delaware?

  The Newark Delaware Police Department can be reached at 302-366-7111 for non-emergency and routine calls.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Newark, Delaware?

  The Records Division of the Newark Delaware Police Department is at 220 South Main Street, Newark, DE 19711, and its phone number is 302-366-7100, pick option 3.

• What factors do the courts in Delaware look at when determining negligence in a Newark car accident?

  The Delaware courts judge negligence in Newark car accidents by examining if the defendant was disobeying traffic signs and signals when the incident happened. Motorists are also at fault if the trial shows that the drivers were drunk or high when on the road or if weather and traffic conditions were ignored. Another indicator of misconduct is driving on the wrong side.

• What are the sums a car accident victim in Newark could recover?

  A car accident victim in Newark could recover the cost of medical treatments which range from emergency room stays, follow-up care, and diagnostic tests. The value of property lost or damaged during the crash is demandable in court. A plaintiff can also seek compensation for the wages lost while unable to work due to recovery.

• Who are some of the parties a car crash victim in Newark can bring to court?

  A car crash victim in Newark can bring suit against the parents of a driver if the latter is a minor. It is possible to sue the manufacturer of one’s vehicle if there are product defects involved which led to the loss of control. Mechanics and repair shops are liable if they fail to repair a critical automobile issue and this caused a crash.

• What are some of the roads in Newark that have an elevated risk of car accidents and why?

  The following highways and interstates in Newark have an elevated risk of car accidents: I-95, Wrangle Hill Road, Route 273, Cleveland Avenue, and Route 896. A reason why travel along these passages is risky is that roads within the metro and the state can vary greatly in terms of speed limits, ranging from five miles per hour in a school zone to 65 on I-95.

• How long does a car accident victim in Newark have to go to court?

  A car accident victim in Newark has two years to sue the party who caused a vehicular incident and this starts on the date of the mishap. Claims against car insurance companies follow a longer three-year period counted from the date that the firm breached the policy. This extends to cases where the insurer acted in bad faith when denying a petition.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.