Asbury Park Car Accident Lawyers
Unfortunately, car accidents in Asbury Park are common, given the busy roads and significant traffic in the area. Understanding the causes, consequences, and steps to take after an accident can help you face the aftermath more confidently.
Depending on the circumstances of your car accident in Asbury Park, you may be entitled to compensation. Our team at Ellis Law has extensive experience handling these cases and can provide the necessary guidance to protect your rights.
What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in Asbury Park?
Car accidents in Asbury Park can be attributed to different causes, many of which are preventable. Common ones include:
- Distracted driving is where drivers divert their attention from the road to activities like texting or eating.
- Speeding is another significant cause, as it reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Driving under the influence remains a prevalent issue, with impaired judgment and slower reaction times leading to collisions.
- Poor weather conditions like rain or snow can make roads slippery and visibility poor, contributing to collisions.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
Stay calm and take these steps to protect yourself and others after a car accident. First, check for injuries and call emergency services if anyone is hurt. If possible, move to a safe location to avoid further accidents.
Next, exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene by taking photographs of the vehicles, damages, and other evidence like skid marks.
Ask the responding officers how to obtain a copy of the police report and call your auto insurance company to let them know what happened. Do not admit fault or provide other opinions; stick to the facts with short, simple sentences.
How Can I Determine Who Is At Fault for a Car Accident?
Determining fault in a car accident involves analysis of traffic laws, eyewitness accounts, and physical evidence from the scene. Police reports also play a significant role, providing an official account of the accident and may include citations or observations indicating fault.
Insurance companies and lawyers will conduct investigations, reviewing the evidence and statements provided. Occasionally, accident reconstruction experts may be called to analyze the scene and vehicle damage.
What Are Common Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity. Common ones include:
- Whiplash, where the neck is abruptly jerked, causing strain and pain.
- Head and brain injuries injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries, can occur from the impact or hitting the steering wheel or dashboard.
- Broken bones and fractures are also frequent, often affecting the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding can pose serious health risks.
We recommend seeking immediate medical attention after an accident, even if you do not seem to have serious injuries. Many symptoms do not present until time has passed, and not having a prompt diagnosis could jeopardize your claim.
What Compensation Can I Receive After a Car Accident?
Compensation after a car accident can cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Medical expenses include hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care related to sustained injuries. Property damage covers repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident. Lost wages compensation accounts for the income you have lost due to being unable to work and potential future earnings. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally two years from the accident date. This time frame applies to personal injury and property damage claims. Adhering to this deadline is critical, as failing to file within the specified period can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. It is advisable to consult with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure all necessary steps are taken promptly, and your rights are protected.
What Should I Do If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
The process of obtaining compensation gets complicated when the other driver is uninsured. However, you may still have options. If you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your insurance policy, you can file a claim with your insurance company to cover the damages. This coverage protects you in situations where the at-fault driver lacks insurance.
Additionally, it may be possible to pursue legal action against the uninsured driver, although collecting compensation may be challenging if they lack financial resources. Read your insurance policy carefully to understand all of the available options.
What if My Car Insurance Company Denies My Claim?
Do not panic if your car insurance company denies your claim. Instead, request a detailed explanation of the denial in writing. Review your policy to understand the grounds for the denial and see if there might be a misunderstanding or error. Gather all relevant documentation, such as accident reports, photos, and medical records, to support your case; contact your insurance company to discuss the denial and provide any additional information that may be required.
If the insurer will not change their decision, consider filing an appeal with them. You can also seek assistance from your state’s insurance department. Another option is to consult with a car accident attorney to explore further legal options.
How Can a Lawyer Assist Me After a Car Accident?
A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance after a car accident by offering legal advice and representation. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through filing a claim. A lawyer can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to get you fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
If necessary, your lawyer can represent you in court, presenting evidence and arguing your case to achieve a favorable outcome. Their knowledge and experience can alleviate the stress of dealing with legal matters and increase the likelihood of a successful claim.
Our Asbury Park Car Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law Can Fight to Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Motor Vehicle Crash
If you have been involved in a car accident in Asbury Park and need legal assistance, our trusted Asbury Park car accident lawyers at Ellis Law are here to help. We are committed to providing the support and representation you need during this challenging time. Call 732-308-0200 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.