If you or your loved were injured in a vehicle accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Contact our Jersey City car accident lawyers today for a free consultation: 201-699-5070
There are an average of 300 crashes in Jersey City each year. While some are minor, many collisions lead to injuries and expensive repairs.
Working with a Jersey City car accident lawyer can help you protect your rights after a crash. Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. is a leading firm in New Jersey. Speak with us after a car accident to see if you qualify for compensation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Jersey City
Car accidents happen fast, and victims often can’t react quickly to avoid collisions. Sadly, many of the common causes of car accidents are preventable.
Our attorneys often see car accidents due to the following:
- Distracted driving. Many drivers use smartphones and other electronic devices while on the road. Texting, talking, or using a GPS can take away a driver’s focus on the road.
- Intersection collisions. Jersey City’s numerous intersections pose a challenge for drivers. Failure to yield the right of way and disregarding traffic signals contribute to many intersection-related accidents.
- Poor weather conditions. Rain, snow, and fog can make roads slippery and hard to see. Drivers who struggle in these conditions can cause accidents if they lose control of their vehicle.
- Speeding. Excessive speed is a persistent issue in Jersey City. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, making accidents more tragic.
- Aggressive driving. Tailgating and road rage are unsafe behaviors. Aggressive drivers are hard to predict and put others at risk.
- Driving under the influence (DUI). Drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs have less control over their vehicles and slower reaction times, leading to accidents.
- Inexperienced drivers. New residents and young drivers may struggle with the stress of city driving. These drivers often make poor decisions or mistakes and cause crashes.
- Vehicle defects. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can happen at any time. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial to prevent accidents caused by unexpected mechanical issues.
- Congested traffic. Jersey City’s streets are often congested, especially during peak hours. Gridlock and heavy traffic can lead to rear-end collisions, sudden stops, and a higher likelihood of fender-benders.
Speak with an auto accident lawyer no matter how your crash occurs. Our firm will help identify the cause and find the liable party.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents often result in various injuries, from minor to severe. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash. The neck is abruptly jolted, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Broken bones. Fractures frequently occur in the arms, legs, and ribs due to the impact force.
- Head injuries. Concussions or traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function.
- Back injuries. Herniated discs and spinal cord damage can result in chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Internal injuries. Organ damage or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but are life-threatening if untreated.
- Soft tissue injuries. Bruises, sprains, and strains can cause significant discomfort and require medical attention.
- Disfigurement. Severe scarring or other injuries can alter appearance and have lasting psychological impacts.
- Amputations. Loss of limbs or extremities can dramatically affect the quality of life and require long-term rehabilitation.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand the physical and emotional toll these injuries take on victims and are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you need for recovery.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming and chaotic. Knowing the proper steps to take immediately after the incident can help protect your rights and ensure your safety. Here are essential steps to follow.
Ensure Safety and Call 911
First, check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. Move to a safe location if possible, but avoid leaving the scene of the accident. When the paramedics arrive, you should let them see you. Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor after a car accident is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen over time.
Exchange Information
Collect contact and insurance information from all involved parties, including names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details. Additionally, gather information from any witnesses.
Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and visible injuries. These visual records can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. But be wary of telling them any specific details. An auto accident lawyer will handle any further conversations with the insurance company.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Contacting a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and options. An experienced lawyer, like those at Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Determining Fault After an Accident
You may be able to recover compensation from the party at fault for an accident. In some cases, the police report will show clear evidence of fault. However, you may need additional evidence to hold a party liable.
Evidence can include:
- Witness statements,
- Photos and video, and
- Accident reconstruction experts.
We don’t want you to worry about this. Our seasoned attorneys will take care of everything while you heal and recover.
How a Jersey City Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Working with an attorney is crucial after a car accident. Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. can manage your entire case so you can focus on recovery.
Objective Case Evaluation
Our attorneys can meet with you to provide an unbiased and objective assessment of your case. They will evaluate the facts, evidence, and circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the strength of your claim. After this, we’ll advise you on legal options and suggest the best course of action.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident. We’ll work with law enforcement, medical professionals, and other experts to understand the circumstances. We’ll then use this evidence to demonstrate liability.
Calculation of Damages and Compensation
Many victims undervalue their damages and suffer as a result. Accidents can cause long-term harm that often requires multiple surgeries and rehabilitation. Our firm will consider your current damages and future needs to calculate a fair compensation amount.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and intimidating. These companies offer low settlement amounts to entice you to settle. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that insurance adjusters consider the full extent of your damages and work toward a fair settlement.
Representation in Court
Negotiations don’t always lead to a settlement. Our firm will be ready to represent you in court in these cases. The attorneys will present your case, argue on your behalf, and demonstrate why the law supports your compensation claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims
Our clients often have many questions about car accidents. Here are some of the most common questions we receive.
What Damages Can Be Claimed in a Car Accident Case?
If another party is at fault for the crash, they may owe you compensation. Victims often seek the following damages:
- Medical expenses,
- Property damage,
- Lost wages, and
- Pain and suffering.
The comparative negligence statute allows you to recover compensation if you share fault. Even if you are partially liable, you can recover if you share no more than 50% of the fault. The court will reduce your total award by this percentage. For example, if you are 20% at fault and suffered $100,000 in damages, you can only recover $80,000.
How Does Insurance Affect My Claim?
Insurance coverage plays a pivotal role in the outcome of your car accident claim. Understanding how insurance works can significantly impact your ability to receive compensation. The compensation you can receive may be limited by the insurance policy limits of the at-fault party and your coverage. Understanding these limits is crucial for managing expectations regarding recovery.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?
Car accidents are unique and complex matters. Some settlements happen within a few weeks, while others take years. Speaking with a Jersey City car accident lawyer about your case is the best way to get an estimate of how long the process will take.
What Are Common Issues with Insurance Companies?
Common issues with insurance companies include deliberate delays in processing claims, disputes over liability, and undervaluation of damages such as medical expenses and lost wages. Insurers may offer settlements lower than the true worth of your case, affecting your recovery.
Having a skilled vehicle accident lawyer, like those at Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., is crucial. They can navigate these challenges, advocate for your rights, and ensure you receive a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries and losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit?
New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Absent certain exceptions, a court could dismiss your claim if you don’t file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the date of the car accident.
Talk to The Qualified Jersey City Car Accident Attorney Today
Speak with Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. before accepting a car accident settlement. Our award-winning attorneys have recovered millions for clients and never settle for less than you deserve. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
Other types of cases our Jersey City car accident lawyers can help with include:
