Car Accident Claims in New Jersey: Knowledge for Empowered Decision-Making

What should I do if I get in a car accident in New Jersey?

Your safety is the most important thing following a car accident. Check for injuries and request any necessary medical help. If you can, move your vehicle to the side of the road. It's also important to notify law enforcement. Stay at the scene of the crash until the police arrive to write an official accident report. They'll also facilitate an exchange of driver's license and insurance information. Collect any relevant photo evidence, witness statements, and road condition information before leaving.

What is the average settlement for a car accident in New Jersey?

Unfortunately, it's difficult to provide an average settlement amount for New Jersey. Settlement information is kept private between insurance companies and firms. Offers also vary greatly depending on the specifics of each case, so averages are not representative of your unique claim.

Is hiring a car accident lawyer in New Jersey necessary?

Hiring a New Jersey car accident lawyer is a personal decision, but it's common to seek professional legal help following such incidents. A car accident attorney can build a strong case on your behalf, advise you on industry-standard amounts for settlement offers, and manage the required paperwork during the process. You'll be able to devote more resources and time to your recovery.

How much does a New Jersey car accident attorney cost?

Typically, car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you'll only pay if you receive a payout. For cases that proceed directly to a settlement, lawyers may charge a pre-suit fee of 33% of the final settlement amount. Cases requiring a lawsuit typically have a slightly higher post-suit fee of 40%.

What does the process of working with a car accident lawyer look like?

Initially, a car accident attorney will listen to the details of your case and decide how to proceed. You'll then work closely with a case manager to collect documents including accident reports, insurance information, and medical receipts.

Once all your medical bills are collected, your lawyer will assemble a claim and begin negotiations with the insurance company. Most cases settle, but if a satisfactory amount can't be reached, your lawyer may help you file a lawsuit.

How long will it take to investigate a car accident claim in New Jersey?

The average personal injury claim in New Jersey reaches settlement in 1.5 years, but your specific case will depend on the response time of the insurance company, the amount of available evidence, and the necessity of a lawsuit. You should expect at least several months of paperwork and negotiation. Some cases settle within a year while others may last over five years, though the goal is always to have an expeditious process.

What happens once my New Jersey car accident case is settled?

Congratulations on closing your case! Once you've reached a settlement in New Jersey, any outstanding fees—legal expenses, medical bills, loans, and more—will be deducted from the gross settlement. The rest is yours.