Category: Car Accident

In addition to injuries and property damage, car accidents often create financial and legal challenges for drivers. Oftentimes, subrogation comes into play with these claims. It is a legal process that allows insurance companies to recover money from the at-fault party after compensating their own policyholder. Learning about how subrogation works can reduce confusion for drivers and their families.

What Does Subrogation Mean?

Subrogation is when an insurance company steps into the shoes of a policyholder to recover payments made for damages. After compensating a driver, the insurer can pursue reimbursement from the party responsible for the accident. This process prevents duplicate payments and holds the correct party accountable for financial losses.

How Does Subrogation Work After a Car Accident in Cherry Hill?

When a driver files a claim, the insurance company may pay for repairs, medical bills, or other covered losses. The insurer then investigates liability and, if the other driver is at fault, seeks repayment from that party or their insurer. This may involve reviewing police reports, witness statements, and accident documentation to support the reimbursement claim.

Why Do Insurance Companies Use Subrogation?

Insurance companies use subrogation to recover funds after paying for losses, which helps keep premiums from rising unnecessarily. By shifting financial responsibility to the at-fault party, insurers maintain fairness and accountability. Subrogation also allows companies to manage claims efficiently while protecting the financial interests of policyholders.

How Do Policyholders Receive Compensation During Subrogation?

Policyholders usually receive payment for damages while subrogation is ongoing. The insurer provides funds upfront, then pursues reimbursement from the responsible driver’s insurance company. This allows claimants to repair vehicles, pay medical bills, or address other expenses without waiting for another party to accept liability.

Does Subrogation Affect Personal Injury Claims?

Subrogation can influence personal injury claims when medical bills are initially covered by health insurance or personal injury protection coverage. The insurer may later request reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. Policyholders can still pursue additional compensation for pain, suffering, or other damages not covered by insurance payments.

What Happens if There Is Shared Fault?

Accidents involving shared fault require careful allocations of financial responsibility. Insurance companies may use comparative fault rules to divide costs according to each driver’s level of responsibility. In these cases, reimbursement may be partial rather than full, depending on the investigation findings and applicable state laws.

Can Policyholders Waive Subrogation Rights?

Some policies allow a policyholder to waive subrogation rights, usually with prior approval from the insurer. Waiving these rights prevents the insurance company from seeking repayment from the responsible party, but it may affect coverage or result in higher out-of-pocket costs after an accident.

What Should I Do if My Case Involves Subrogation?

Provide accurate information to your insurer, including police reports, medical documentation, repair invoices, photographs, and witness statements. Prompt cooperation allows the insurance company to pursue reimbursement efficiently. While insurers handle most of the subrogation process, you may receive updates and should respond quickly to requests for additional information.

What if My Insurer Refuses to Subrogate My Cherry Hill Car Accident Claim?

 

If your insurer refuses to subrogate your claim, you may still recover losses through other means. You can negotiate directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit to seek compensation. It is important to review your insurance policy, as some coverages allow you to pursue reimbursement independently. Our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers can clarify your legal options and protect your rights while handling your claims process.

Talk to Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York

If you have questions about subrogation or any other concerns about a crash, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Milmont Park, PA, and we serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Car accidents on Route 38 and the New Jersey Turnpike happen far too often, causing serious injuries, property damage, and financial challenges. These heavily traveled highways see a high volume of traffic, which increases the likelihood of collisions. Knowing the right steps to take after an accident can help protect your rights, strengthen any future claims, and help you avoid common mistakes that may affect compensation.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Accidents on Route 38 and the NJ Turnpike?

Highway accidents in these areas often stem from distracted driving, speeding, tailgating, improper lane changes, and driving under the influence. Weather conditions, construction zones, and heavy truck traffic can further contribute to dangerous situations. Recognizing these risk factors helps drivers take precautions to reduce the likelihood of a collision.

What Should I Do After an Accident on Route 38 or the NJ Turnpike?

Safety should come first. Move to a safe location if possible, call 911, and wait for emergency responders to arrive. It is important to exchange information with all involved drivers, including names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle descriptions. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries before leaving the scene.

Must I Call the Police After a Highway Accident?

Yes, it is generally recommended to contact the police after any crash on Route 38 or the New Jersey Turnpike, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. A responding officer will prepare an official accident report, which can serve as a key document when filing an insurance claim or pursuing compensation.

How Do I Handle Insurance Companies After a Highway Collision?

After a crash, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters. While you should report the incident to your insurer promptly, only share the facts and avoid offering opinions. Be extra cautious when speaking with opposing insurance companies; say as little as possible and avoid giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers. We recommend consulting with a lawyer before speaking with insurance adjusters.

What if the Accident Involved a Commercial Truck?

Crashes involving commercial trucks on Route 38 or the New Jersey Turnpike can result in significant damage and injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. They can also be more complicated, as multiple parties might be liable, including the driver, trucking company, and third-party contractors. Evidence like driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records can help determine liability in these crashes.

Should I Seek Medical Attention Even if I Feel Fine?

Yes, it is wise to have a medical evaluation after any automobile crash, even if you seem to feel fine. Some injuries, like concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma, may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen if left untreated. Medical records also serve as important evidence when pursuing compensation for accident-related expenses.

Why Should I Contact a Lawyer After an Accident?

A lawyer can review your accident reports, communicate with insurance companies, and identify liable parties. A Cherry Hill car accident lawyer familiar with Route 38 and New Jersey Turnpike accidents understands local traffic patterns, common hazards, and applicable state laws that may impact your case. In cases involving serious injuries or disputed fault, having legal representation can make a significant difference in obtaining fair compensation.

Get Our Experienced Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York on Your Side

If you were injured in a motor vehicle crash, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. For a free consultation, call us today at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

As drivers age, physical and cognitive changes can affect their ability to operate a vehicle safely. While many older drivers remain cautious and responsible on the road, age-related conditions, medication side effects, and slower reaction times may increase the risk of traffic incidents. Recognizing the factors that contribute to accidents involving elderly drivers helps create awareness and supports safer driving practices.

What Physical Changes Can Impact Driving Ability in Older Adults?

Vision and hearing often decline with age, making it more difficult to detect hazards or respond to signals. Reduced muscle strength and joint flexibility may also affect steering, braking, and turning movements. These limitations can lengthen reaction times and make sudden maneuvers more challenging in fast-changing traffic conditions.

How Does Slower Reaction Time Affect Accident Risk?

Reaction time tends to increase with age due to changes in the nervous system. A slower response can be particularly dangerous in situations requiring quick judgment, such as avoiding an unexpected obstacle or responding to another driver’s actions. This delay can make it harder for elderly drivers to prevent collisions, especially at higher speeds or in congested areas.

Can Medications Influence Driving Performance?

Many older adults take prescription or over-the-counter medications that can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, or irritability. Certain drug combinations may intensify these side effects. When these impairments occur while driving, they can lead to decreased awareness, poor lane control, or difficulty maintaining an appropriate speed.

Why Is Night Driving Often More Challenging for Elderly Drivers?

This is due to reduced visual acuity in low-light conditions and increased sensitivity to glare from headlights. These factors can make it harder to detect pedestrians, read road signs, or judge distances accurately. Limited visibility at night may also contribute to slower responses in emergency situations.

How Can Weather Conditions Affect Accident Risk for Elderly Drivers?

Rain, snow, and fog can create slippery roads and reduce visibility, posing difficulties for drivers with slower reflexes or impaired vision. Older drivers may also have more trouble adapting to sudden changes in weather conditions. Reduced physical agility can make controlling the vehicle during skids or sudden stops more difficult.

Can Distractions Contribute to Accidents with Elderly Drivers?

While distractions affect drivers of all ages, older drivers may find it harder to divide attention between the road and other tasks. Adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, or using a phone can take focus away from driving. Even momentary lapses in attention can have serious consequences if traffic conditions change suddenly.

Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Offer Sound Legal Guidance

If you were involved in a motor vehicle crash and want to pursue compensation, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Call 856-843-8990 or contact us online for a free consultation today. We have offices in Milmont Park, PA, and Cherry Hill, NJ, and serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is a busy suburban community with significant traffic volume due to its proximity to Philadelphia, its major highways, and frequent road construction. While most of the roads here are relatively safe, others have a higher likelihood of collisions. Drivers who travel through Cherry Hill should be aware of these areas so they can take extra precautions and avoid potential hazards.

Haddonfield Road, Route 38, and Route 70 are among the roads with the highest number of reported crashes in Cherry Hill. These heavily traveled corridors carry local and commuter traffic, leading to congestion and an increased risk of rear-end collisions and side-impact crashes. Intersections along these routes also see a higher frequency of incidents due to multiple lanes, turning vehicles, and limited visibility.

Why Is Route 70 Considered Hazardous for Drivers?

Route 70 runs through the heart of Cherry Hill and connects several major business and shopping areas. Its high traffic volume, combined with multiple intersections, jug handles, U-turns, and frequent lane changes, makes it a challenging roadway for many drivers. Sudden stops, distracted driving, and improper merging contribute to the number of collisions reported along this corridor.

What Makes Haddonfield Road Risky for Motorists?

Haddonfield Road is particularly busy due to its high number of large retail centers and residential neighborhoods. Frequent entry and exit points, combined with periods of heavy congestion, create conditions where accidents are more likely to occur. Drivers encounter sudden stops, unpredictable lane changes, and merging conflicts, increasing the chances of multi-vehicle crashes.

Are There Specific Intersections Known for High Crash Rates?

Yes, several intersections in Cherry Hill have historically recorded higher accident numbers. The junction where Route 38 meets Haddonfield Road and the intersection of Route 70 with Springdale Road are two locations frequently cited in crash reports. Heavy traffic, limited sightlines, and multiple turning lanes create challenging driving conditions, particularly during peak hours.

What Other Conditions Affect Safety on These Roads?

Poor weather, like heavy rain, snow, and icy conditions, makes these already busy roads even more dangerous. On high-traffic routes like Route 70 and Route 38, reduced visibility and slippery surfaces increase the risk of rear-end collisions and skidding accidents. Around the holiday season, Route 38 and Haddonfield Road by the Cherry Hill Mall see significant traffic increases and higher accident rates.

Does Distracted Driving Play a Role in Cherry Hill Accidents?

Distracted driving is a significant factor in many crashes throughout Cherry Hill, particularly on busy roads where drivers need to remain highly attentive. Texting, adjusting in-car systems, and other distractions take focus away from changing traffic patterns. On roads like Haddonfield Road and Route 70, where quick decisions are frequently required, even a brief lapse in attention can lead to serious collisions.

What Can Drivers Do to Reduce Their Risk of Accidents?

Drivers can lower their chances of being involved in collisions by maintaining safe speeds, avoiding distractions, and allowing adequate following distances. Being extra cautious near busy intersections and construction zones, and monitoring traffic patterns on high-risk roads can also make a significant difference. Adapting driving habits during heavy rain, icy conditions, or peak commuting times further helps reduce accident risks.

Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Are Familiar With Local Roads and Laws

Even the safest drivers get into serious crashes. Contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York if you need legal guidance. Call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and we serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The unfortunate fact is that you are never able to control who you are involved in a car accident with on the road. The hope is that the other driver has both a license and car insurance. If the other driver was unlicensed, you should not draw any assumptions that you would not be able to be paid for your injuries. However, you are dealing with a more difficult legal situation that would potentially involve your own insurance company. Anytime that you are dealing with an insurance company, you need help from an experienced car accident lawyer to obtain the best possible result.

 

Will Another Insurance Company Pay for Your Damages?

 

A driver may be unlicensed for a number of reasons. One of them could be that they lost their permission to drive because their license was suspended for traffic offenses. Here, the driver may still have a car insurance policy that may potentially cover the accident damages. However, the insurance company may balk at paying a settlement when their driver did not have the right to be behind the wheel in the first place. They may still deny your claim and force you to sue the driver. You may be able to legally fight with the insurance company to force them to pay the claim.

 

What Happens if the Other Driver Has No Insurance?

 

If the driver did not have car insurance, how you are paid is an entirely different matter. You would need to turn to your own car insurance company to be compensated for your injuries. In general, New Jersey is a “no-fault” state, so you could be paid for the cost of your medical bills and the lost wages that you would have earned from working. You may have a low PIP limit, so you are only paid for a fraction of your damages. Thus, you must have another type of coverage that would cover more of your damages.

Under New Jersey law, your car insurance company is required to offer you uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage would pay for your damages when the other driver did not have insurance, or you were the victim of a hit-and-run. Your car insurance company is legally obligated to offer you this coverage when you pay for your policy. If the driver did not have insurance, you would need to turn to your own insurance company for a settlement.

 

How Will My Insurance Company Respond to an Uninsured Motorist Claim?

 

Just because you have paid premiums and you are a customer does not mean that your insurance company is going to willingly pay you all of the money that you deserve. They would still want to know that the other driver was at fault for the accident, and they may make you lowball settlement offers. You would still need to negotiate with your insurance company the same as you would with that of another driver. For that, you need the help of an experienced car accident lawyer who can put legal pressure on them to pay you what they owe you.

 

The fact that a driver did not have a license does not automatically mean that they are to blame for the crash. Regardless of the other facts, you still have a legal obligation to prove negligence before you qualify for compensation beyond that which you may receive as part of your personal injury protection. If you were to blame for the accident yourself, you would not receive a full settlement check just because the driver was breaking the law in another way. Accordingly, it is essential to hire a car accident lawyer right after the crash, so they can gather the available evidence that you need to prove liability.

 

Contact the Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York If You Are Seeking Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries

 

If you have been injured in a crash with an unlicensed driver, reach out to the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. We can evaluate your legal options and pursue compensation on your behalf if you deserve it. To schedule a free consultation, submit our online form or call us today at 856-843-8990. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

In any car accident case, you would need to prove negligence as a prerequisite to potentially receiving financial compensation for your injuries. Your car accident lawyer may gather evidence from a number of sources because you are the one who must meet your own burden of proof. Of course, eyewitness testimony may be a readily available and persuasive form of evidence for your case. You may also turn to other sources of proof if you want to supplement the evidence, or if you do not have witnesses or other things to help your case.

 

Dashcam evidence could be used to either help or undercut your case. You may have had a dashcam mounted in your own vehicle. Alternatively, another driver who was in the vicinity may have had one, and they captured footage of the crash. This footage could be used as a source of proof, either to present to the insurance company with your claim or to a jury with your lawsuit.

 

Dashcam Footage Can Be Used to Prove Negligence

 

Having actual footage of the crash can serve as persuasive evidence of what really happened. Assuming that the video evidence can be authenticated, it can be very difficult for the insurance company or a jury to reach a conclusion different from what they can see very clearly in front of them on video. Dashcam footage can be a primary source of proof of liability. It could also break a tie in your favor in what may be a close call. You could also use dashcam evidence to disprove any allegations made against you if the insurance company claims that you were partially to blame for the accident.

 

Dashcam footage can be a double-edged sword in a car accident case. There may be footage of your actions in the circumstances leading up to the accident. If you may have been partially to blame for the crash, it can be proven through the use of dashcam footage. If the camera captured your own actions, it can present difficulties for your case.

 

You Must Preserve All Dashcam Evidence

 

No matter what the footage may show, it is vital that you take steps to preserve it. If it comes out that you had a dashcam and you are found to have deleted the footage, you would have committed spoliation of evidence, and it could make your case very difficult. You may have adverse inferences drawn against you, and you could even be found liable for the accident.

 

Accordingly, you should take steps to preserve the evidence that you have as soon as possible after the accident. You may need to do this quickly before the footage gets overwritten, as some dashcams are programmed to do so over time. Make sure to make a copy of the footage and give it to your car accident lawyer for safekeeping as soon as you hire them.

 

If another party recorded the dashcam footage, it can still help your case. You may have received contact information from witnesses, and someone may have told you that they recorded the accident. Try to follow up with them as soon as possible after the crash and ask them to provide the footage. There is even a chance that your car accident lawyer could subpoena the footage if another party will not cooperate, but that is a long shot. Thus, you need to hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible, while the evidence that can prove your case is still available to you.

 

Contact the Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York if You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident and Are Seeking Compensation

 

The Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York will fight for your legal rights if you have been injured in a motor vehicle crash. For a free consultation, call us today at 856-843-8990 or submit our online form. With office locations in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Car accidents often result in more than just broken bones or temporary injuries. In many cases, survivors are left with permanent scarring that affects them for the rest of their lives. Scars can serve as physical reminders of the trauma endured, altering a person’s appearance and, in some instances, their physical capabilities. Beyond the visible damage, permanent scarring can take a psychological toll, impacting self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. Understanding how permanent scarring occurs, what steps to take after sustaining this type of injury, and what compensation might be available can help accident victims navigate this difficult path forward.

What Causes Permanent Scarring After a Car Accident?

Scarring can happen in a variety of ways following a car accident. When skin is cut, torn, or burned, the body begins to heal by producing fibrous tissue known as “scar tissue.” The extent and nature of the wound often dictate whether the scar will fade over time or remain permanently. Deep lacerations, such as those caused by broken glass or torn metal, frequently lead to lasting scars.

Burn injuries, particularly those caused by vehicle fires or contact with heated components, often result in skin damage that leads to long-term disfigurement. Surgical procedures related to accident injuries can also contribute to scarring, particularly if performed under emergency conditions where aesthetics may be secondary to life-saving efforts.

Can You Get Compensation for a Permanent Scar?

Victims of car accidents who suffer permanent scarring may be entitled to seek financial compensation. The law recognizes that scars, especially those in visible areas like the face or hands, can be life-altering. Compensation may be awarded not only for the physical pain and suffering caused by the accident, but also for the psychological impact and any necessary medical treatments to improve the appearance or function of the affected area.

In addition, victims may be able to recover costs associated with reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, and counseling. The amount of compensation varies based on multiple factors, including the location and severity of the scar, the age and occupation of the individual, and how the injury has affected daily life and long-term prospects.

How Do Insurance Companies and Courts Evaluate Scarring Claims?

Permanent scars are evaluated based on several key considerations. One major factor is visibility. Scars on the face, neck, arms, or hands are typically considered more impactful than those on covered parts of the body. The size and texture of the scar also play a role in determining its severity. Another consideration is whether the scar impairs movement or causes discomfort, especially when located over joints or other flexible parts of the body.

Emotional and psychological factors are also taken into account. Individuals who experience anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal due to disfigurement may receive additional consideration during the claims process. In some cases, testimony from medical professionals or therapists may help establish the long-term effects of the scarring.

What Should You Do if You Suffer Permanent Scarring in a Car Accident?

The steps taken immediately following an injury that results in scarring can have a significant impact on both your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation. First, it is important to seek prompt medical attention. Even minor wounds can become serious if not treated properly, and early documentation of the injury is crucial. Photographs of the injury and its progression over time should be kept, as these can serve as evidence.

It is also important to follow all medical recommendations, including attending follow-up visits and considering any treatments suggested by your healthcare provider. Keeping a record of expenses, pain levels, and emotional changes can also be helpful. Finally, speaking with a legal professional familiar with personal injury law can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you may be entitled to.

Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim for Scarring From a Car Accident?

Yes, there is a limited amount of time in which you can file a claim for injuries related to a car accident, including permanent scarring. This period is known as the “statute of limitations.” In New Jersey, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this window can result in the loss of your right to pursue legal action.

That is why it is important to begin the legal process as soon as possible, even if the full extent of the scarring is not yet known. Early consultation with legal counsel can help preserve evidence, secure medical evaluations, and set the stage for a stronger claim.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Advocate for Injured Car Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has experienced permanent scarring due to a collision, the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can help guide you through the legal steps necessary to seek justice and move toward healing. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our offices located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.