Best Car Accident Lawyers in Clifton

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Clifton Police Department is 973-470-5900.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your Clifton car accident report online at https://www.crashdocs.org/#/reports?state=NJ&agencyORI=NJ0160200. Reports are available within three business days of the incident.

• How do you build a strong car accident case in Clifton against the at-fault driver?

  If you want to build a strong car accident lawsuit in Clifton, you and your legal team must submit sufficient evidence to show how the collision caused your injuries, how the other driver’s actions led to the crash, and how the accident has affected your life. You must also present relevant documentation, such as the police report, your medical records, and statements from on-scene witnesses, to support your case.

• How long do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Clifton?

  If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence in Clifton, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a car accident lawsuit according to state law. Failure to meet the statute of limitations can result in the dismissal of your claim.

• How much is your car accident case worth in Clifton?

  Your case's value depends on the financial and emotional losses you have incurred after your car accident in Clifton. Your lawyer will consider all the ways the incident affected your life. These include any emotional or psychological trauma you experienced, the extent and severance of your injuries, the amount of time you need to recover from your injuries, and any disruptions to your life, including the loss of your ability to work.

• What types of damages can you recover after a car accident in Clifton?

  If you have been seriously injured or harmed in a car accident in Clifton, you are entitled to compensation for your economic, non-economic, and property losses. Economic losses include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, long-term care, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and home renovations to accommodate your permanent disabilities. Non-economic losses refer to emotional pain and suffering, psychological distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Meanwhile, property losses pertain to vehicle repair costs.

• What should you do if you receive a settlement offer after a car accident in Clifton?

  If you receive a settlement offer for your losses caused by another driver in Clifton, you are strongly advised not to accept it. You must review the offer and the details of your car accident case with an experienced personal injury lawyer. In most cases, the first settlement offer you receive does not cover the full value of your claim. Additionally, you may not realize the full extent of your injuries until weeks or months after the incident.

• 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.