Our Family Has Given A Voice To The Injured For Over 50 Combined Years
For many across Newark and Essex County, spring brings relief from snow and ice. But March showers often create dangerous driving conditions that lead to a spike in car accidents throughout Newark, East Orange, Irvington, and surrounding communities.
Rain may seem less threatening than snow, but wet pavement, oil buildup, and hidden ice patches can quickly cause serious crashes. If you were injured in a rain-related crash, a Newark car accident attorney can help you recover compensation for your injuries and financial losses.
At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we have spent decades advocating for injured victims throughout Newark and Essex County. We understand how quickly a rainy day commute can turn into a life-changing event.
Why Rainy Roads in Newark Increase the Risk of Car Accidents
Major roadways such as Broad Street, Route 21, Interstate 78, and the Garden State Parkway experience heavy daily traffic. When rain falls quickly, drainage systems can become overwhelmed. Water mixes with oil and debris on the roadway, creating slick surfaces that reduce tire traction.
This is especially dangerous during the first 30 minutes of rainfall, when accumulated oil rises to the surface.
Common Rain-Related Accident Risks in Newark
- Hydroplaning on Route 21 or I-78.
- Rear-end collisions on Broad Street during rush hour.
- Multi-vehicle crashes on the Garden State Parkway.
- Loss of vehicle control near intersections and highway ramps.
- Hidden black ice in early spring mornings.
Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose contact with the roadway due to standing water. At that point, steering and braking become extremely difficult, often leading to serious collisions.
Who Is Liable in a Rain-Related Car Accident in New Jersey?
A common misconception is that “bad weather” causes accidents. Under New Jersey law, weather does not excuse negligent driving.
Drivers must adjust their speed and behavior to match road conditions. That includes:
- Reducing speed in heavy rain.
- Increasing following distance.
- Avoiding sudden braking.
- Using headlights properly.
- Maintaining safe tires and brakes.
If a driver fails to take these precautions and causes a crash, they may be held liable.
New Jersey’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence system. You may recover compensation if you are 50 percent or less at fault. If you are 51 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame during rain-related crashes. An experienced Newark personal injury attorney can gather evidence such as police reports, traffic camera footage, weather data, and witness statements to prove the other driver’s negligence.
How Insurance Companies Use Weather as a Defense
After a rain-related crash in Newark, insurance companies may attempt to reduce or deny your claim by:
- Arguing that the weather was the “real cause” of the crash.
- Claiming you were partially responsible.
- Downplaying the severity of your injuries.
- Misrepresenting your right to recover pain and suffering damages.
Bad weather does not relieve drivers or insurance companies of responsibility. If another driver’s carelessness caused your injuries, you deserve compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Future medical care
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Having a Newark hydroplaning accident lawyer protects you from unfair insurance tactics.
What To Do After a Rain-Related Car Accident in Newark
Taking the right steps immediately after a crash protects both your health and your legal claim.
- Move to safety if possible and call 911.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor.
- Take photos of vehicle damage, roadway conditions, standing water, and surrounding traffic signs.
- Obtain contact information for all drivers and witnesses.
- Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the crash.
- Contact a Newark car accident attorney before speaking to insurance adjusters.
Prompt medical documentation is critical. Some injuries, including concussions and soft tissue injuries, may not appear immediately.
Why Choose Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP for Your Newark Car Accident Case
For more than 50 combined years, our attorneys have given a voice to the injured throughout Newark and East Orange. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can cause.
We serve clients throughout:
- Newark
- East Orange
- Irvington
- Essex County
- Surrounding North Jersey communities
When you hire our firm, we:
- Conduct a thorough accident investigation.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies.
- Calculate the full value of your damages.
- Fight for maximum compensation.
Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Call us today to speak with a trusted Newark car accident attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rain-Related Car Accidents in Newark
Who is at fault in a wet road car accident?
Drivers are responsible for adjusting their driving to match weather conditions. If a driver was speeding, following too closely, or driving aggressively in the rain, they may be liable.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s comparative negligence law, you can recover damages if you are 50 percent or less at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Does hydroplaning automatically mean the driver is not responsible?
No. Hydroplaning often results from driving too fast for conditions. Drivers are expected to reduce speed during heavy rain.
Should I speak with the insurance company before hiring a lawyer?
It is best to consult with an attorney first. Insurance adjusters may attempt to obtain statements that limit your claim.
Contact a Newark Hydroplaning Accident Lawyer at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP Today
Spring rain should not leave you facing mounting medical bills and financial uncertainty. If you or a loved one was injured in a rain-related crash in Newark or anywhere in Essex County, Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP is here to help. Call a Newark hydroplaning accident lawyer at 973-675-8277 or contact us online now for your free consultation. Let our experienced Newark personal injury attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve. We are located in East Orange, NJ.
