Best Car Accident Lawyers in Edison

FAQs

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

  You can contact (732) 248-7400 to report non-emergency situations in Edison.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police accident report by filing a request at the Records Bureau of the Edison Police Department. Reports are available online following the completion of the investigation.

• What is the leading cause of car crashes in Edison?

  In one recent year, it was reported that the majority of New Jersey car accident cases happened in the Edison metro. According to the New Jersey State Police, in the first half of 2021, there were over 300 fatal car crashes. The National Highway Transportation Administration reported that 8.5% of all accident fatalities are caused by distracted driving. Drivers tend to take their eyes off the road and their hands off the wheel.

• How much time do you have to file car accident lawsuits in Edison?

  If you have been hurt or injured in a car accident in Edison, you are given two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Two years might seem long, but individuals are encouraged to file lawsuits right away because evidence can be destroyed or lost and witnesses might move away or forget what happened. For car accidents involving public or government entities, plaintiffs must file claims within 30 days after the incident.

• Do you have to find eyewitnesses after a car accident in Edison?

  Yes, you must try to look for eyewitnesses because their statements can help you build a strong case. Write down their names, contact numbers, addresses, and auto license plate numbers if you can. Do not depend on the police to find eyewitnesses as they are primarily interested in securing the accident scene and restoring normal traffic flow.

• If you have been injured in an Edison car accident due to unintended acceleration, who can you sue?

  Car manufacturers are liable for your injuries caused by your vehicle's unintended acceleration. Edison victims should coordinate with product liability and personal injury lawyers to help them file lawsuits against at-fault parties. You and your legal team must prove that vehicles have defective throttle control systems and mechanical and electrical problems.

• Who will pay for the property damage after a car accident in Edison?

  If you are not at fault in a car accident in Edison, you have two options. You can contact your own insurance company if you purchased collision coverage. The insurance service provider will pay for the damaged car, no matter who is at fault for the accident. You can also coordinate with the liable party's insurance company to determine the amount of compensation.

• 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.