Best Car Accident Lawyers in Maplewood

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Maplewood Police Department is (973) 762-3400.

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

  Individuals can obtain their accident reports in person from the Records Bureau of the Maplewood Police Department, open from Tuesday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. It is also available on Monday from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm; however, the office is closed between 4 and 5 in the afternoon. Maplewood residents can also e-mail the bureau by filling out a form at https://maplewoodpd.org/records-bureau.

• Can a Maplewood driver obtain damages from insurance companies for injuries in a car accident involving a deer?

  Yes. Individuals can recover damages from insurance companies for injuries sustained from a vehicular accident involving a deer. Victims must note that incidents involving animals like deer and horses are categorized under comprehensive coverage, which also reimburses policyholders for costs related to theft, vandalism, or fire damage. Maplewood officials have installed devices near South Mountain Reservation roads that emit high-pitched noises to scare deer away to decrease the number of deer-related accidents in the area.

• What evidence can a Maplewood attorney utilize to recover fair compensation for a client with drowsy driving-related injuries?

  To support a car accident claim, evidence like crash scene photos, police reports, and eyewitness accounts can be helpful. Traffic cameras could show behavior like difficulty in staying in one lane. Attorneys will also obtain their client's medical documents to show the extent of their injuries—like whiplash—and build a strong claim. Maplewood motorists have a higher chance of drowsy driving accidents; the city has an average commute time of 37.8 minutes, more than the national average of 27.6 minutes.

• How can a Maplewood attorney prove a driver's negligence in a snow-related car accident?

  An attorney will obtain evidence from law enforcement personnel that shows the negligent driver did not remove ice and snow from their vehicle's windows and roofs before driving. Under New Jersey law, drivers face a fine of between $25 and $75; the fine increases to $200 or even $1000 if the ice from the driver's car falls off while in transit and injures fellow drivers. Maplewood motorists should be careful when driving during the city's snow period, especially in February, when the snowfall averages 7.1 inches.

• Are there limitations to the damages families can receive in a Maplewood car accident case involving wrongful death?

  Yes. New Jersey laws allow surviving families to recover financial losses from liable parties. However, a wrongful death lawsuit usually does not award emotional and punitive damages to a Maplewood car accident victim's next of kin. Obtaining non-economic damages is not impossible, though; family members might be able to recover compensation if they have incurred extreme distress from watching their loved one's death.

• What makes Prospect Street in Maplewood dangerous for motorists?

  Prospect Street's curve near Sommer Avenue has been the site of multiple accidents. Maplewood motorists sometimes miss their turn and crash into trees, lawns, and houses. There were also reports of drivers not following the suggested 15-mile-per-hour speed limit in the area. Additionally, the presence of pedestrians—especially kids who walk to the nearby Tuscan Elementary School and might not understand traffic rules—could lead to a car accident.

• 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.