Best Car Accident Lawyers in Cherry Hill

FAQs

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

  The Cherry Hill Police Department non-emergency line is (856) 665-1200.

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

  The Police Records section is reachable at 856-488-7822, and the physical address is at 820 Mercer Street, P.O. Box 5002, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.

• What are the common kinds of injuries that a car accident plaintiff in Cherry Hill can sue over?

  A car accident plaintiff in Cherry Hill can sue over physical injuries ranging from external cuts and lacerations to serious internal bleeding and bone fractures that alter the victim's way of life. It is also possible to sustain lasting psychological harm like post-traumatic stress disorder which causes sufferers lasting and extreme levels of anxiety and stress.

• What are the causes of car crashes in Cherry Hill other than driver negligence?

  Other than driver negligence, car crashes in Cherry Hill can occur because of inclement weather, where a fully diligent driver may lose control of the car and sight of the road due to excess snow and rain. The road could be in poor condition and riddled with potholes that destroy tires and suspensions. The former is a defense if one ever gets sued while the latter gives rise to suits against public works officials.

• Why should a car accident claimant in Cherry Hill obtain a lawyer?

  A car accident claimant in Cherry Hill should get a lawyer because trial procedures are tricky and court appearances take time to prepare for. Attorneys are useful in the pre-litigation process and could negotiate with insurers better than a victim who is going solo. Legal professionals are also acquainted with the rules of evidence and are adept at preserving key documents and testimonies.

• What is the difference between "no limitation" and "verbal threshold" car insurance in Cherry Hill?

  In Cherry Hill, car insurance policies fall under two broad camps: "no limitation" plans and "verbal threshold" ones. The former imposes no limits on the plaintiff's ability to sue for non-economic damages like psychological trauma. The latter generally limits the compensation a claimant can obtain to the quantifiable economic kinds, though narrow exceptions exist for death, dismemberment, or the loss of unborn children.

• What should car accident victims in Cherry Hill do after a crash?

  Car accident victims in Cherry Hill must pull the car aside if possible and make sure everyone is safe. Contact 911 immediately and gather pictures of the vehicles and the incident site for evidence purposes. Obtain the contact information of the other driver and cooperate with the police. Also, call a lawyer and refer all calls from the insurance company to the former.

• 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.