Best Car Accident Lawyers in Howell

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  The Howell Township Police Department can be reached at (732) 938-4111.

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

  To obtain an accident report from the Howell Township Police Department, call (732) 938-4575 Prompt 1. Allow three to five business days after the accident to call if the report is available. If it is, drop by the police department at 300 Old Tavern Road from 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM, Monday through Friday. There is no fee for reports picked up in person. Please be informed that police accident reports are not available via email, fax, or mail.

• Who can be held liable for a crash in Howell caused by a car that accidentally and unintentionally accelerated?

  Mostly, the manufacturer could be held liable for problems like this in Howell. There are many reasons why a car can suddenly accelerate, and most of them have nothing to do with the driver. Some of these include various electrical, mechanical, or computer problems; a malfunctioning throttle control system; or a design flaw like cars manufactured by Toyota in the years before 2010 that did not include a brake override system.

• Do all car accidents that happen in Howell need to be reported to the police?

  There is no need to call for authorities for minor car collisions in Howell, such as those involving only scratches on the vehicles. However, if the car crash caused extensive vehicular damage or people were seriously hurt, you are legally obligated to let the police know about it. Not only does this mean that the law will hold responsible parties accountable, but this can also help serve as evidence when you file a damage claim.

• Can you sue the township of Howell if you crashed into private property because of a dimly lit road?

  If there is a high likelihood that the lights were out on any given street because of Howell Township's negligence, then yes. It must first be proven that the local government has failed to ensure that all roads are well-lit. Other examples of negligence include uncovered maintenance holes, ignored potholes, and poorly designed intersections.

• Why are arbitrators involved in some UM or UIM claims for car accidents in Howell?

  Arbitrators are needed to settle some coverage disputes in Howell, especially if the two parties seem unable to agree on an amount. During proceedings, one arbitrator will represent the plaintiff, another the defendant, and then a neutral arbitrator. This usually results in a settlement, so there is no need to take the case to court. If one or more arbitrators disagree, then either party can take the case to the jury.

• What are punitive damages, and how do they help car accident victims in Howell?

  Punitive damages act like "punishment fines" against people proven to have acted with the intent to harm others. This is rarely awarded as most car accidents are caused by human error, not malicious intent. Nevertheless, this can help greatly with expenses, as the punitive damages limit in Howell is five times the amount of the compensation to be received by the claimant or $350,000, whichever is higher.