Best Car Accident Lawyers in Montclair

FAQs

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

  Call 973-744-1234 to get in touch with the Township of Montclair Police Department.

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

  You can visit the police department at 647 Bloomfield Avenue or call 973-744-1234 for more details. Alternatively, get copies of accident reports online at www.crashdocs.org/ and www.njportal.com/njsp/crashreports/.

• How can a lawyer help a person who got involved in a car accident in Montclair?

  A lawyer can assist Montclair car accident victims in conducting investigations, properly assessing the damage to seek fair compensation, and handling the necessary paperwork. He/She can also protect the best interests of victims during negotiation with the insurance company and in court if the negotiation of a fair settlement cannot be agreed upon.

• What are some common causes of car accidents in Montclair?

  Driver error is the main cause of car accidents in Montclair. This may involve speeding, distracted driving, and DUI. Driving actions such as violating traffic laws and signals, illegally or unsafely taking a turn, and ignoring rights of way also cause accidents. In addition, road defects and poor weather conditions contribute to accidents in the area.

• What is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and how can it help in a car accident in Montclair?

  An uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is a type of coverage in an insurance policy that helps the insured obtain compensation if they get into a car accident in Montclair with a driver who does not have insurance or whose insurance is inadequate. It is also applicable if the insured is involved in a hit-and-run accident.

• Is an ice-sliding accident in Montclair covered by car insurance?

  No. When you slide on icy roads in Montclair and damage your car, it is considered an at-fault accident by the insurance company, which will not be covered regardless of whether a police officer issues you a ticket or not. However, if the ice-sliding accident was due to the negligence of another driver, you can still file an insurance claim.

• Which roads in Montclair are busy and may be prone to car accidents?

  Many streets intersecting Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair are busy and susceptible to car accidents. These streets include North/South Mountain Avenues, Valley Road, and Orange Road/Bell Street. They were recently installed with traffic safety upgrades in 2022 to minimize car and pedestrian accidents. Additionally, the stretch of Upper Mountain Avenue is prone to car accidents attributed to speeding in the area.

• 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.