Patterson Car Accident Lawyers

Car accidents in Patterson, New Jersey, are more common than you might think, with consequences like property damage and severe injuries. Anyone who has experienced one likely knows that the legal aftermath can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights and legal options is critical in pursuing fair compensation for your losses.

The Patterson car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein help people affected by local motor vehicle crashes. With extensive experience in personal injury law, we work diligently to advocate for our clients. Our team can guide you through every step, including what to do immediately after the accident.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Patterson?

After a car accident in Patterson, your first priority should be your safety and well-being. Check for injuries and seek medical attention immediately, even if you believe the injuries are minor.

Once you have addressed immediate safety concerns, it is essential to gather evidence. This includes taking photographs of the scene, collecting contact information from any witnesses, and exchanging insurance details with the other driver. Make sure to request a copy of the police report, as this will serve as an official record of the incident.

What Compensation Can I Seek After a Patterson Car Accident?

If you are injured in a Patterson car accident, you may be entitled to several forms of compensation:

• Medical expenses can cover anything from hospital stays and surgery to rehabilitation and medication.
• Property damage includes costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle.
• If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may also seek compensation for the wages you lost during your recovery.
• Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, address the emotional and physical toll the accident has taken on your life.

These damages vary depending on the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact on your quality of life. Our Patterson Car Accident lawyers can help you determine the full scope of compensation you may be eligible to receive.

How Is Fault Determined in a Patterson Car Accident?

Fault in a Patterson car accident is typically determined based on evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and the police report. New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that both parties can share responsibility for the accident.

If you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. That determination is up to the court, highlighting the importance of compelling evidence and a convincing case.

Should I Speak to the Insurance Company After a Car Accident?

The other driver’s insurance company may contact you shortly after a car accident. While it is important to report the accident to your own insurance provider, our Patterson Car Accidents recommends that you avoid making any statements to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting with us. Insurance adjusters may attempt to settle quickly, often offering compensation that may not fully cover your damages.

Be careful about what you say to your own provider as well. Remember, any statements made to the insurance company can be used against you if your case goes to court, so having legal representation early in the process is highly beneficial.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident in Patterson?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must initiate legal action within that time frame if you wish to seek compensation through the courts. If you fail to file within this period, you may lose the ability to pursue a claim.

While two years may seem like a long time, it is advisable to begin the legal process as soon as possible. Evidence can become harder to obtain, and witnesses’ memories may fade over time.

What Are Common Car Accident Injuries?

Car accidents in Patterson can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding

While some injuries may heal with time, others require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation; traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries can have long-term consequences, affecting an individual’s ability to work or perform daily activities. For this reason, it is important to seek medical attention immediately after an accident and follow up with your healthcare provider.

What if the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

New Jersey requires drivers to carry liability insurance, but not all drivers comply. If the other driver involved in your accident does not have insurance, you may still be able to seek compensation through your own policy. New Jersey drivers are required to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which can provide compensation when the at-fault driver is uninsured.

If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it can help cover medical bills and property damage. However, navigating an uninsured motorist claim can be challenging, and our Patterson Car Accidents can help you understand your rights and options.

What Happens If I Was Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Hit-and-run accidents can be especially distressing because the at-fault driver may not be identified. In such cases, you may be able to seek compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. It is important to report the accident to law enforcement as soon as possible so that they can investigate and attempt to locate the driver responsible.

Even if the hit-and-run driver is not found, your uninsured motorist coverage might help cover your medical expenses and property damage.

The Patterson Car Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein Provide Legal Guidance

If you were injured in a car accident, the experienced Patterson car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein will help. For more information, submit our online form or call 973-675-8277. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas. We are a local firm with a team of dedicated attorneys. You will receive personalized service at Goldstein & Goldstein.