Best Car Accident Lawyers in Morristown

FAQs

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

  The Morristown, New Jersey Bureau of Police can be reached at (973) 538-2200.

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

  To obtain a police report of the accident, you can call (973) 292-6221, from 8 AM to 3 PM, or email a request to records@morristown.org. You can also visit the Police Records Unit at 200 South Street.

• What is an overlooked but very important piece of advice for anyone involved in a car accident in Morristown?

  It is important to cooperate with the police in Morristown, but you do not have to volunteer any information that they are not asking for, especially if they're only speculations. Remember, the defendant will be referring to the same police report to build their own case. Do not forget to ask for the incident report number and the responding officers' business cards though.

• How do you self-report a car accident in Morristown?

  If you are involved in a car accident that caused more than $500 in damage (both to the drivers and their vehicles), it is important that you fill out a written report and submit it to the New Jersey Department of Transportation at this link: https://njdot.prod.simpligov.com/prod/Portal/ShowWorkFlow/AnonymousEmbed/a24cb054-6900-4ab2-97c8-67f1f64ae7a0

  In the event that the accident was not investigated by police for whatever reason, download this form instead: https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/refdata/accident/pdf/SR-1.pdf

• If a car accident victim's insurance has a "Limited Right to Sue" policy, can they still sue the at-fault party in Morristown?

  In Morristown, that policy is also called "Limitation on Lawsuit," which is concerned with an individual's ability to pursue non-economic damages. It states that they can only file for it if they or their loved ones specifically suffered any of the following: limb loss or dismemberment, loss of an unborn child, significant disfigurement, fractures, permanent bodily injury, or death.

• What do you do if you receive a traffic summons in Morristown?

  This would concern a Morristown car accident that you were involved in—a summons for a motor vehicle crash with an injury—and requires a court appearance. Read the back of the summons first, as it states your rights and responsibilities. If you intend to plead not guilty, contact the court at least seven days before the court appearance date.

• How much can you expect to receive in compensation if you contributed to a car accident in Morristown?

  Morristown, and the rest of New Jersey, follow the state's modified comparative fault law, which states that an individual, even if proven to be partially responsible for the accident, may still receive financial compensation as long as their degree of responsibility does not exceed 50%. It also says that the amount awarded to them will be deducted according to the level of their fault. For example, if they were 10% responsible, then they would only receive $90,000 of their $100,000 settlement.

• 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.