Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bridgewater, NJ

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bridgewater, New Jersey?

  908-722-4111 is the non-emergency line of the Bridgewater Township Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bridgewater, New Jersey?

  You can contact the Records Bureau at 908-725-4044 or by email at Records@bridgewaterpd.com to acquire a copy of your car accident police record. Include your name, case number, phone number, and email address. The requesting party can receive a copy of the report through email. An officer will get in touch with you on the phone if the report has to be followed up on.

• What is the legal deadline for filing a car accident claim in Bridgewater?

  In Bridgewater, you have two years to file a claim after a car accident. It is advised not to put off taking action because your lawsuit will be dismissed if you fail to file within the deadline. Be sure the legal claims process does not put you behind the insurance company as well.

• How long will a car accident lawsuit in Bridgewater take to be resolved?

  It may be possible to settle your car accident claim in Bridgewater within a few months if the other party is not disputing their liability and your losses are simple to calculate. If the opposing party denies their liability or the extent of your losses, the resolution of your claim may take longer.

• How do you deal with insurance providers after a car accident in Bridgewater?

  Keep the following four suggestions in mind when dealing with insurance providers following a Bridgewater automobile accident:

  • Refrain from making a recorded comment.
  • Never consent to a release of your medical information.
  • Never acknowledge responsibility for a collision. Determining who caused an accident is not your duty.
  • Have patience when negotiating a deal. Insurance companies don't always make the best offer.

• What financial compensation may you expect from a Bridgewater car accident claim?

  The following variables can be used to determine the value of your Bridgewater car accident claim:

  • Medical expenses: These include hospital stays, prescription drugs, and continuous therapy or rehabilitation fees.
  • Lost wages: You might be entitled to compensation for lost pay if your injuries require you to take time off of work.
  • Pain and suffering: If the accident caused you to experience psychological or emotional distress, you might be entitled to compensation.

• How much does hiring a Bridgewater car accident lawyer cost?

  The majority of car accident lawyers in Bridgewater take cases on a contingency basis. This means that the injured party owes nothing to the lawyer until and unless the attorney obtains money through a settlement or verdict. Also, the lawyer generally pays for all case costs, including the investigation, expert witnesses, and filing fees with the court. These expenses will then be reimbursed when the case becomes successful.

• 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.