Best Car Accident Lawyers in Woodbridge

FAQs

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

  (732) 634-7700 is the Woodbridge Police Department's non-emergency contact number.

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

  You can secure a copy of your Woodbridge car accident report in person, over the phone, or by mail. To request your document over the phone or in person, call or visit the Records Bureau on the ground floor of the Woodbridge Municipal Building located at 1 Main St, Woodbridge, NJ, 07095. Vehicle crash reports cost $0.50 per page. If you requested your copy via mail, the fee is $2 each.

• Do you have to call the police after your car accident in Woodbridge?

  Yes. If your car accident in Woodbridge causes injury, death, or property damage that exceeds $500, you should call the police. If you were the driver and you sustained severe injuries, your passengers must contact the authorities on your behalf. In situations when there is no passenger present, you must report the incident as soon as it is safe to do so.

• Should you handle your Woodbridge car accident case on your own to save money?

  Following a car accident in Woodbridge, it is preferable to get legal counsel from an experienced attorney. You might receive less than you deserve if you handle your case alone. A legal team can help you gather crucial evidence, sue the responsible parties, and obtain maximum compensation for your losses.

• What are the top causes of car accidents in Woodbridge?

  The high incident and injury rates in Woodbridge are mostly a result of the massive number of people on the road. Car crashes are also greatly influenced by careless and negligent driving habits. These include speeding, drunk driving, drowsy driving, and distracted driving. Route 1, which passes through Menlo Avenue, Edison, and Ronson Road, is one of Woodbridge's riskiest sections. This location sees 65,924 vehicles on average each day and has a relatively high collision rate.

• Is there a deadline in Woodbridge for filing a car accident lawsuit?

  Yes. In most cases, plaintiffs in Woodbridge have two years to submit a car accident claim. However, if the victim was a minor at the time of the crash, they will only be able to submit a claim once they turn 20 years old. In situations where the State of New Jersey, a county, or its employees are involved, New Jersey Tort Claim laws will be in effect, requiring the filing of a special notice within 90 days of the incident.

• Who bears responsibility in hit-and-run accidents in Woodbridge?

  Since hit-and-run drivers are rarely caught, your insurance company will take responsibility even if the driver who leaves the scene is at fault for your car collision in Woodbridge. New Jersey is a no-fault state, which means that your personal injury protection (PIP) policy should pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. However, PIP does not cover property damage, so if you do not have collision coverage, you will be responsible for paying for any damage to your car.

• 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.