Best Car Accident Lawyers in Elizabeth

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Elizabeth Police Department is 908-558-2111.

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

  People involved in car accidents in Elizabeth can request copies of their accident reports from the Records Division of the Elizabeth Police Department either in person, by mail, or online. The police department is located at 1 Police Plaza.

• Why are car accidents common in Elizabeth?

  Car accidents frequently occur in Elizabeth because it has a significant number of transit options, such as buses and trains. The city also has several highways, including the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) and Interstate 278, as well as dangerous crossways, intersections, and bridges like the Goethals Bridge. Additionally, Elizabeth is the fourth-largest city in New Jersey, with a population of around 125,000.

• Despite New Jersey's no-fault law, can car accident victims in Elizabeth file a third-party claim?

  People who have been injured in car accidents in Elizabeth can file a personal injury claim against third parties if they have an unlimited right to sue coverage and have sustained permanent injuries. A third-party claim can result in greater financial compensation than a personal injury protection (PIP) claim. In line with this, the state’s no-fault law limits injured victims to seeking compensation from their own insurance companies through their mandatory PIP insurance.

• How long can a victim sue after a car accident in Elizabeth?

  According to New Jersey Revised Statute 2A:14-2, injured car accident victims in Elizabeth have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. Meanwhile, victims who need to recover compensation for property damage can invoke Revised Statute 2A:14-1, which gives them up to six years from the date of the crash to file a property damage claim.

• Why must car accident victims in Elizabeth still hire an attorney even if their insurance policies already cover the damages they have incurred?

  Insured people injured in car accidents in Elizabeth still require the services of an attorney because their best interests and those of the insurance companies are not always aligned. Victims want their insurance companies to pay for any liability they may have, while insurers want to spend as little money as possible. In addition, insurance companies do not file lawsuits against negligent drivers on behalf of injured victims.

• Is it possible to get a fair settlement through car accident coverage after a crash in Elizabeth?

  Car accident victims in Elizabeth can't obtain the compensation they deserve using car accident coverage. Insurance providers see every dollar awarded to a policyholder as a dollar lost because they operate for profit. Because of this, many insurers initially make a lowball offer to claimants, who are unaware that they are entitled to a much higher amount. Car accident attorneys understand how insurance companies work and will work hard to help claimants obtain maximum 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.