Best Car Accident Lawyers in Livingston

FAQs

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

  Call 973-992-3000 to reach the Livingston Police Department for non-emergency matters.

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

  You may obtain a copy of motor vehicle accident reports in person at the Police Records Division of the Livingston Police Department: 333 S Livingston Avenue Livingston, NJ 07039

  Typically, records become available within five business days and can be picked up Mondays through Fridays, from 8 AM to 4 PM.

• Can you get compensation if a loved one dies in a car accident in Livingston?

  If you lose a loved one in a motor vehicle accident in Livingston, you may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. With the help of a personal injury attorney, you may seek compensation for damages such as funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, and loss of love, affection, companionship, guidance, and marital consortium.

• Can you get compensation from the at-fault driver of your car accident in Livingston under the no-fault system?

  Yes, under certain circumstances. In Livingston, aside from what you will receive from your own insurance company, you can pursue a claim for additional compensation from the at-fault party if you sustained serious injuries in a car accident. Some common examples of serious injuries are broken bones, permanent injuries, loss of limbs, and the loss of an unborn child. The serious injury threshold is put in place to provide you with a way to get additional compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future losses.

• What are the required car insurance types in Livingston?

  All registered vehicles in Livingston are required to carry three types of insurance as mandated by New Jersey law, 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 Livingston, you may face hefty fines and suspension.

• How will you recover damages as a passenger in a car accident in Livingston?

  If you were riding along as a passenger in someone else’s car in Livingston and you figured in an accident, you are still eligible to be compensated for your injuries. A personal injury attorney can help you file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company, enabling you to get the compensation you need to deal with your injuries and losses.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident claim in Livingston?

  In Livingston, victims of car accidents generally have two years from the date of the accident or two years from the time they became aware of their injuries from the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a claim is filed after this time window, known as the statute of limitations, has expired, the court will dismiss the case and the victim will lose their opportunity to receive compensation for their 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.