A car accident can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you with injuries, property damage, and a world of confusion. Even minor accidents can have a lasting physical and financial impact, and navigating the aftermath is often intimidating. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, having a Montclair car accident lawyer on your side can provide much-needed guidance and stability as you recover.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand the physical, emotional, and economic toll that an accident can take. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims in Montclair get the compensation they deserve. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, we’re here to help handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery.
If you or a loved one was injured on the road in Montclair, don’t try to handle it alone. We know how to navigate New Jersey’s laws and fight for your rights every step of the way.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Montclair
When you’re involved in a car accident, the decisions you make in the aftermath are key for protecting your interests and improving your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Follow these actions if you’ve been in a crash in Montclair:
- Get medical attention. You may not feel hurt, but seeing a doctor is essential to evaluate for injuries that aren’t always immediately apparent, like whiplash or concussions. A medical record of your injuries is also crucial for a future claim.
- File a police report. In New Jersey, you must report an accident involving injuries or significant property damage (N.J. Stat. § 39:4-130). The police report is an important part of your claim.
- Collect evidence. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These photos can be valuable for determining fault or justifying compensation.
- Exchange details. Get the names, contact information, and insurance details from other drivers and any witnesses.
- Avoid admitting fault. Don’t make statements that suggest you were responsible for the accident, as others may use them against you later.
If you could not follow all of these steps right after the crash, don’t worry. A Montclair car accident attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and take the following steps in your case, even if some time has passed. It’s not too late to get the support you need.
How Fault Is Determined in New Jersey Car Accidents
The following factors typically determine who is at fault in a collision in Montclair:
- Police report. The police investigation and report play a key role in establishing the facts of the accident, including who was involved, what environmental conditions may have contributed to the crash, and whether anyone violated traffic laws.
- Witness testimony. Statements from people who saw the accident happen can help clarify how the crash occurred and who may be at fault.
- Traffic law violations. Breaches of New Jersey traffic law, such as speeding or running a red light, can be a strong indicator of fault. If one driver acted unlawfully during the crash, they may be considered more responsible for the accident.
- Insurance investigation. Insurance companies conduct their own investigations to determine fault. They will review the police report, witness statements, and other evidence to determine liability.
New Jersey’s comparative negligence system allows fault to be shared among the parties involved in the accident. Even if you played a role in the crash, you could still recover compensation for your injuries and damages if you were 50% or less at fault. However, the percentage of fault assigned to you will reduce your compensation. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for the accident, you may still recover 80% of the damages from the other driver.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, we handle complex car accident cases with experience and work hard to secure fair compensation for you. Let a Montclair auto accident attorney guide you through the process, whether fault is clear or disputed.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents and Their Impact
Drivers and passengers can suffer many injuries in a car accident. Some injuries we commonly see include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries,
- Broken bones and skull fractures,
- Back and neck injuries,
- Facial lacerations and bruises,
- Burns,
- Organ damage, and
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Car accident injuries can vary significantly in severity. Often, even minor accidents result in serious physical issues that aren’t immediately apparent. That’s why seeing a medical professional as soon as possible after a crash is critical, even if you feel fine.
How a Montclair Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help You
After a car accident, handling insurance claims, medical bills, and legal matters can feel overwhelming. Here are some key ways a Montclair car wreck lawyer can support you through the process:
- Investigating the accident. We’ll work to gather crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs, to build a strong case for you.
- Negotiating with insurance companies. We work directly with insurance companies to negotiate for your right to full compensation for medical costs and lost wages.
- Providing legal advice. A Montclair car crash lawyer will inform you of your rights, help you evaluate settlement offers, and advise you on whether to go to court.
- Handling all paperwork. We manage the filing of your claim and strive to ensure compliance with deadlines, including New Jersey’s two-year statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits (N.J. Stat. § 2A:14-2(a)). Missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation.
- Representing you in court. If needed, we’ll fight for you in court to secure a fair judgment.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, we understand the toll a car accident can take on your life. Our team is committed to handling the legal complexities while you focus on what matters most: your recovery.
Glugeth & Pierguidi: Your Montclair Car Accident Attorney
Recovering from a car accident can be a long and frustrating process. Fortunately, you don’t have to handle it on your own.
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we aim to guide Montclair residents through their legal options after a crash. With over 30 years of combined experience, our attorneys are passionate about defending your rights and securing the compensation you need to move on with your life.
We’ve helped countless clients recover significant compensation for their injuries and are ready to help you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a Montclair car accident lawyer.