Best Car Accident Lawyers in East Brunswick

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters, call 732-390-6900 to reach the East Brunswick Police Department.

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

  You may retrieve a copy of your accident report in East Brunswick online at: https://www.eastbrunswick.org/489/Accident-Reports. Alternatively, you can email your request to ebpdrecords@ebpd.net or call the Police Records Bureau at 732-390-6922. Your report can be picked up at the East Brunswick Police Records Bureau: 1 Jean Walling Civic Center Drive East Brunswick, NJ 08816.

• Does East Brunswick require you to have car insurance?

  As East Brunswick is located in New Jersey, a no-fault state, it requires all registered vehicles to carry three types of mandatory insurance, namely liability insurance, personal injury protection (PIP) or “no-fault” coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage. In the event that you are pulled over by authorities and you fail to provide proof of insurance when operating any vehicle in the metro, you may face hefty fines and suspension.

• Under the no-fault system, can you still sue the other driver if you get injured in a car crash in East Brunswick?

  Yes, it is still possible to file a lawsuit against the driver at fault, even under East Brunswick’s no-fault system. However, the large majority of drivers in the city have a limit-on-lawsuit policy, which sets a high threshold for suing the other driver for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and reduced quality of life. In order to sue the at-fault driver, you must prove dismemberment, disfigurement, displaced fracture, or other permanent injuries.

• What damages can you recover after a car accident in East Brunswick?

  Depending on the specific facts of your case, there are several things you can get compensated for if you get hurt in a car accident in East Brunswick. These may include current and future medical bills, property damage and losses, loss of income, loss of future earning capacity, and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a result of the accident. You may also be compensated for emotional distress and mental trauma, as well as for pain and suffering.

• What pieces of evidence do you need to get compensated if you get injured in a car accident in East Brunswick? \

  In order to build a case that will secure you the maximum compensation you deserve, your legal team will need solid proof that you were injured in an accident that another party caused in East Brunswick. The pieces of evidence that your legal team will need include the traffic collision report, accident scene photos, eyewitness statements, medical bills and reports, insurance company reports, and accident reconstruction.

• How long after a car accident in East Brunswick can you file a lawsuit?

  East Brunswick follows New Jersey's statute of limitations and filing deadlines. This allows you to bring a lawsuit up to two years from the date of the accident. If you attempt to file a lawsuit against the responsible party after the statute of limitations has expired, your case will likely be dismissed, and you will be unable to recover any compensation for your losses.

• 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.