Best Car Accident Lawyers in Passaic

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, you may reach the Passaic Police Department through its phone numbers 973-365-3900 and 973-365-3966.

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

  The Passaic Police Department's Records Bureau can provide you with a copy of the police report. Make a request by dialing 973-365-3909.

• Are you eligible for pain and suffering compensation in Passaic?

  It depends. While buying auto insurance in the state of New Jersey, where Passaic is situated, you will have the option to select a verbal threshold or a "limitation on lawsuit" threshold for your coverage. If you choose this, your premiums will be lower, but you will also be giving up the right to compensation for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, unless you suffer a qualifying injury. On the other hand, if you choose the "no limitation on lawsuit" option, your premium will be higher, but there will be no limit on the amount of compensation you can claim.

• Do you need to provide a statement to the other party's insurance company following an accident in Passaic?

  You don't have to provide a written or recorded statement to the at-fault party's insurance company since what you say may be used against you. However, if your own insurance company requests this, you might be obliged to comply as part of the insurance policy agreement. There is a risk that what you say will be against your interests, because your insurer might try to pay you as little as possible. You might want to consult legal counsel in Passaic to guide you on your next steps.

• How do you calculate recoverable damages from an accident in Passaic?

  If you are seeking to determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to after being involved in a car accident in Passaic, there are some factors that you should consider. To calculate your total damages, you'll need to add up the costs of your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.

• How do you establish a driver's liability in a Passaic car accident?

  In order to establish the other driver's liability in a car accident lawsuit, you must demonstrate that they disregarded local traffic regulations and safe driving practices. Your proof must show that his carelessness caused a circumstance that resulted in the accident. Additionally, it must be demonstrated that the collision caused your injuries and the ensuing financial losses.

• What happens to your chances of compensation if your car accident in Passaic was partially your fault?

  Under the "modified comparative fault" law in New Jersey, where Passaic is located, the amount of compensation to which you may be entitled depends on your degree of fault in an accident. This means that a driver's accident claim is based on how much you contributed to the accident. Your claims may be reduced depending on this.

• 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.