Category: Car Accident

Winter drives along Route 70 in Cherry Hill can transform familiar commutes into white-knuckle experiences. One moment, the highway appears clear, and the next, a patch of black ice sends vehicles spinning across lanes. As temperatures drop and precipitation increases, drivers face conditions that demand heightened awareness and different techniques than those used during warmer months. Knowing how winter weather affects this busy corridor can mean the difference between arriving safely and becoming part of a car accident statistic.

What Makes Black Ice So Dangerous on Route 70?

Black ice forms when moisture freezes on the road surface, creating a transparent layer that blends with the pavement below. Drivers often mistake these sections for wet pavement rather than ice, which leads to sudden loss of control when they brake or turn. Route 70 experiences particularly hazardous conditions at its numerous intersections, where vehicles must slow down and make turns on potentially frozen pavement. Construction zones add another layer of risk, as uneven surfaces and lane shifts can trap water that freezes overnight into slick patches.

When Does Route 70 Become Most Hazardous During Winter?

The most dangerous periods occur during early morning hours and after sunset when temperatures drop below freezing. Afternoon thaws can leave standing water on the roadway, which then refreezes as evening approaches. Weekend traffic tends to move faster than weekday rush hours, giving drivers less time to react when they encounter icy patches. Accidents cluster near major intersections such as Kings Highway and Haddonfield Road, where vehicles must slow down and change direction on potentially frozen surfaces.

How Should Drivers Adjust Their Speed in Snowy Conditions?

Speed limits posted along Route 70 reflect ideal weather driving conditions rather than winter weather scenarios. Reducing speed by at least 10 miles per hour below normal flow gives drivers additional reaction time when road conditions deteriorate. Maintaining a greater following distance allows for extended stopping times on slippery pavement, as vehicles need three times more space to halt on ice than on dry roads. Gentle acceleration and gradual braking prevent wheels from losing traction, which helps maintain vehicle control through curves and lane changes.

What Equipment Helps Prevent Winter Accidents?

Quality tires with adequate tread depth provide better grip on snow-covered pavement, while all-season or winter-specific tires offer improved performance in cold temperatures. Windshield wipers and defrosting systems must function properly to maintain clear visibility through precipitation and fog, and working headlights and taillights become more important during storms when daylight dims, and other vehicles become harder to spot. Keeping emergency supplies like blankets, flashlights, and phone chargers in the vehicle provides resources if a breakdown occurs during severe weather.

Who Bears Responsibility After a Winter Weather Crash?

New Jersey law does not automatically excuse drivers from liability simply because ice or snow contributed to an accident. Motorists must adjust their behavior to match current weather conditions, which means slowing down and increasing driving distances when the weather deteriorates. Insurance companies evaluate whether drivers acted reasonably given the circumstances they faced at the time. Factors such as speeding, following too closely, or failing to clear snow from windows can establish fault, even when roads are slippery.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Help Drivers Pursue Fair Compensation After Winter Collisions

If you were injured in a Route 70 crash, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Our legal team is familiar with this area and the local laws; we can provide the assistance you need. Call us at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Media, PA, and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Car accidents can result in injuries that have lasting effects on daily life and long-term health. Among the most serious are Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), which occur when a sudden impact causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that affect cognitive function, memory, and physical abilities. Understanding the circumstances, medical implications, and potential legal considerations of these injuries can help those affected make informed decisions.

How Do Car Accidents Cause Traumatic Brain Injuries?

Traumatic brain injuries often result from sudden impacts during motor vehicle collisions. Striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or side window can produce a force strong enough to injure the brain. Even if the head does not directly hit a surface, rapid acceleration and deceleration of the head, known as “whiplash,” can create brain trauma. Secondary impacts, such as flying debris or glass, also contribute to TBIs.

What Are the Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

The symptoms of a TBI depend on the severity of the injury. Common signs include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty concentrating. Some individuals may experience memory lapses, mood changes, or sleep disturbances. In more severe cases, loss of consciousness, seizures, or persistent cognitive impairments may occur. Immediate medical evaluation is critical for identifying the injury and preventing further complications.

How Are Traumatic Brain Injuries Diagnosed?

Medical professionals typically use a combination of physical exams, neurological assessments, and imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs to identify TBIs. Doctors may also perform cognitive tests to evaluate memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Early diagnosis can inform treatment plans and help limit long-term effects.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Traumatic Brain Injuries?

That depends on the severity of the injury and the specific symptoms. Mild TBIs may require rest and a gradual return to normal activity. Moderate to severe injuries often involve rehabilitation programs including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech or cognitive therapy. In some cases, medications may manage symptoms such as pain or mood changes.

Can Traumatic Brain Injuries Affect Daily Life?

Yes, TBIs can have a significant impact on everyday activities. Individuals may struggle with memory, focus, or coordination, which can affect work performance and personal relationships. Emotional changes and fatigue can further complicate daily routines. Long-term monitoring and therapy can help mitigate some of these effects, but both can be lengthy, time-consuming processes.

What Are the Legal Considerations After a Car Accident Causing a TBI?

Following a car accident, injured parties may have legal options to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and ongoing care needs. Insurance claims, settlements, and potential litigation require careful documentation of medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. A knowledgeable lawyer can provide guidance on filing claims and protecting your legal rights.

How Long Does Recovery From a Traumatic Brain Injury Take?

Recovery varies widely depending on the severity of the injury and individual health factors. Mild injuries may heal within weeks, while more serious TBIs can require months or years of rehabilitation. Progress can be gradual, and setbacks may occur, emphasizing the importance of consistent medical care and support.

Can Traumatic Brain Injuries Lead to Long-Term Health Issues?

Traumatic brain injuries can result in lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Some individuals experience chronic headaches, memory deficits, or changes in personality that do not go away. Others may be at higher risk for conditions such as epilepsy or neurodegenerative disorders. Ongoing medical follow-up is necessary to address these long-term effects.

Let Our Knowledgeable Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Fight to Get You the Settlement You Deserve

Was your traumatic brain injury caused by a motor vehicle crash? Contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York for experienced legal guidance. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form for a free consultation. With office locations in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Media, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Winter in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is not just cold—it’s the season when potholes proliferate, creating dangerous road conditions. Potholes are a common cause of car accidents during the winter months, as drivers either hit them directly or swerve to avoid them. Navigating these hazards can be challenging, even for cautious drivers. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a pothole, it may be possible to hold the responsible government entity legally accountable.

Why More Potholes Form in the Winter

Potholes are most common in winter due to the repeated freeze–thaw cycle. When snow, ice, or rain seeps into small cracks in the road:

1. Water expands as it freezes, widening the cracks.
2. Warmer daytime temperatures cause the ice to melt, allowing more water to penetrate.
3. Repeated expansion and contraction gradually break apart asphalt or concrete.

Additional factors in Cherry Hill that accelerate pothole formation include:

• Heavy winter traffic on major roads such as Route 70, Haddonfield Road, and Route 38.
• Snowplows that scrape the pavement.
• Road salt, which can weaken asphalt over time.

Even small cracks can quickly turn into deep potholes, creating serious hazards for drivers.

How Potholes Cause Accidents and Vehicle Damage

Potholes can cause accidents in multiple ways:

• Loss of Vehicle Control: Hitting a pothole may cause abrupt swerving, hard braking, or loss of steering control, increasing the risk of collisions with other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians.
• Vehicle Damage: Potholes can damage tires, wheels, and suspension systems, potentially leading to blowouts or mechanical failures.
• Evasive Maneuvers: Even if a driver avoids the pothole, sudden swerving or braking may result in an accident, especially in heavy traffic or poor visibility.

Drivers traveling at higher speeds or in snowy, icy, or dark conditions are particularly vulnerable to pothole-related accidents in Cherry Hill.

Filing a Lawsuit Against the Government for Road Defects

In some cases, you may be able to hold a government entity responsible for injuries caused by potholes. However, there are important legal distinctions:

• The government is not required to fix every pothole immediately.
• They must repair dangerous road conditions within a reasonable time after they knew—or should have known—about the hazard.

Proving a claim against a government entity can be challenging because you must show:

1. When the dangerous condition arose.
2. What the government knew or should have known.
3. That they failed to act within a reasonable timeframe.

Compensation is usually reserved for cases where the government had clear notice of the hazard and did not take timely action.

Legal Process for Claims Against the Government in Cherry Hill

If the pothole was on a county road, you must file a claim with the appropriate local government office. Key deadlines apply:

• Notice Requirement: In New Jersey, you typically must notify the government entity of your claim within 90 days of the incident.
• Evidence Collection: Photos, witness statements, and repair records can help demonstrate that the government failed to maintain safe road conditions.

Due to these strict timelines and procedural requirements, working with an experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyer is critical to building a strong case.

Geo-Specific Risks in Cherry Hill

Certain Cherry Hill roadways are more prone to pothole-related accidents, especially in winter:

• Route 70: A major east-west corridor with heavy commercial and commuter traffic.
• Haddonfield Road (CR 644): Narrow lanes and frequent stop-and-go traffic increase pothole hazards.
• Route 38: High traffic volume combined with snowplow activity creates potential risk.
• Local Residential streets: Side streets often experience slower pothole repairs, increasing exposure for local drivers.

Understanding these local conditions helps attorneys target their investigation and gather compelling evidence.

Preventing Pothole-Related Injuries

While it is impossible to completely avoid winter potholes, drivers in Cherry Hill can reduce risks by:

• Driving cautiously, especially during or after snowstorms.
• Maintaining a safe following distance to allow reaction time.
• Reporting potholes to the municipal or county public works department.
• Inspecting your vehicle regularly for suspension and tire issues.

Even with precautions, accidents can still occur. In these cases, legal support is essential.

Contact the Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by potholes or poor road maintenance, contact the Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Acting quickly is critical because claims against government entities have shorter deadlines. Schedule a free consultation today by filling out an online contact form or calling 856-843-8990. Our offices in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Media, PA, serve clients throughout both states.

Driving after dark inherently poses higher risks for car accidents, but most people must do it frequently. Even the most experienced motorists struggle with it from time to time. Nighttime driving demands heightened attention and cautious behavior, as hazards that are easily visible during the day can become difficult to detect in low-light conditions.

Why Is Driving at Night More Dangerous Than During the Day?

The main reason nighttime driving is more dangerous is the reduced visibility that makes it harder to see pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles. Headlights illuminate only a portion of the roadway, creating blind spots and limiting a driver’s ability to detect hazards in time. Additionally, the glare from oncoming headlights can temporarily impair vision.

How Does Reduced Visibility Contribute to Accidents?

Darkness drastically affects depth perception and color recognition, which are vital for safe driving. Even with headlights, the human eye struggles to adjust quickly between light and dark areas, especially when facing oncoming traffic. This can make it difficult to judge distances accurately or notice obstacles on the road.

How Does Fatigue Affect Nighttime Drivers?

Fatigue is another main cause of nighttime crashes. Many people are naturally more tired after sunset; others work long days and find it harder to focus. Drowsy drivers may experience slower reflexes, poor judgment, and even fall asleep behind the wheel. Fatigue can mimic the effects of alcohol impairment, making it dangerous for anyone operating a vehicle at night.

What Role Does Impaired Driving Play in Nighttime Collisions?

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is more common at night, particularly on weekends. Impaired motorists often have diminished coordination, poor concentration, and slower decision-making abilities. Because visibility is already limited, these effects greatly heighten the chance of a serious collision.

Why Are Pedestrians and Cyclists at Greater Risk at Night?

Pedestrians and cyclists become harder to see when the lighting is poor. Without reflective clothing or lights, they can blend into the background until a vehicle is dangerously close. Drivers may not notice them crossing streets or traveling on the shoulder until it is too late to avoid an accident. This increased risk is particularly concerning in suburban and rural areas with limited street lighting.

Do Older Drivers Face Greater Challenges at Night?

Older motorists might have more difficulty driving at night because of age-related vision changes. For instance, cataracts or reduced peripheral vision can make bright lights more disorienting and dark environments harder to interpret. These factors can lead to slower reaction times and difficulty reading road signs, even when driving familiar routes.

What Effect Does Speed Have on Nighttime Safety?

Speeding reduces the time available to respond to unexpected hazards and extends the distance required to stop safely. At night, this problem worsens because visual cues that help gauge speed and distance are harder to perceive. When headlights illuminate only part of the roadway, driving too fast can lead to “overdriving” the headlights, meaning the driver cannot stop within the visible distance ahead.

How Can Drivers Reduce Their Risk When Driving at Night?

Motorists can improve nighttime safety by maintaining clean headlights and windshields, using high beams appropriately, and avoiding distractions such as cell phones. Staying rested and limiting driving after long days can also help prevent fatigue-related incidents. It is also important to reduce speed, increase following distance, and remain alert for wildlife or pedestrians that may appear suddenly on dark roads.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Are Ready to Help With Your Nighttime Accident

If you need legal help after a motor vehicle accident occurring at night, contact our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. We will thoroughly review your case and fight to secure appropriate compensation. Call us at 856-843-8990 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Media, PA, and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Holiday errands, busy parking lots, and unpredictable winter weather combine to create difficult driving conditions in Cherry Hill. People hurry to stores, daylight fades earlier, and storms can arrive without much warning. Each factor raises the risk of serious car accidents, but paying attention to seasonal hazards helps drivers protect themselves and others sharing local roads.

Why Do Holiday Shopping Surges Increase Accident Risks?

During the holiday season, crowded parking lots and busy retail corridors lead to more sudden stops, distracted driving, and unpredictable movements from both pedestrians and vehicles. Drivers may focus on finding a space or juggling purchases instead of watching the road. Added stress sometimes leads to impatient actions such as abrupt lane shifts or rolling through intersections. With more vehicles and foot traffic packed into the same areas, collisions become more likely.

How Do Early Sunsets Affect Driver Safety?

Shorter days mean more driving at dusk or after dark, and that reduced visibility makes spotting pedestrians, cyclists, and stalled vehicles more challenging. Glare from headlights adds to the problem; holiday decorations and flashing lights can distract or disorient drivers who must adjust quickly to changing visual environments. A slower approach near intersections, schools, and crosswalks helps reduce the chance of severe personal injury caused by nighttime crashes.

What Dangers Come With Winter Storms and Freezing Temperatures?

Ice, slush, and snow can make Cherry Hill roads slippery, even before plows arrive. Additionally, sudden weather changes sometimes catch people off guard while traveling on highways like I-295 or Route 70. When tires lose traction, stopping times increase, and skids become more likely. We recommend reducing speed, leaving additional space between vehicles, and clearing snow from roofs and windows before heading out.

Why Are Rear-End Collisions More Common This Season?

Heavy traffic and abrupt braking happen frequently near shopping centers and intersection clusters throughout Cherry Hill. People may follow too closely while trying to move quickly through busy corridors, and when a car stops unexpectedly, the vehicle behind may be unable to slow down in time. Keeping a wide gap can reduce the severity of such impacts.

How Do Drunk and Drugged Driving Trends Change During the Holidays?

Seasonal gatherings often lead to impaired driving: More celebrations increase the number of intoxicated drivers on the road, especially at night and on weekends. Reaction times slow, and judgment becomes compromised, raising the likelihood of lane drifting, speeding, and missing traffic signals. Choosing a designated driver, calling a ride service, or staying overnight after events reduces incidents linked to substance use behind the wheel.

Are Pedestrians at Greater Risk Near Shopping Districts?

Large crowds walking around retail parking lots, such as the ones at Cherry Hill Mall, are a considerable hazard. People may walk while carrying bags, holding children, or looking at phones. Drivers might not anticipate them stepping into traffic outside marked crosswalks. Slower travel speeds, cautious backing out of parking spaces, and scanning both directions near storefronts are important steps to help prevent serious harm to those on foot.

How Can Weather and Road Condition Reports Help Reduce Risk?

Monitoring forecasts before traveling allows people to plan routes that avoid dangerous areas in Cherry Hill. If snow or freezing rain is expected, leaving early or delaying trips may reduce exposure to those conditions. State and local agencies also provide updates on closures or plowing progress that help motorists avoid roadway obstructions.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Wish You the Happiest Holiday Season

If you need legal advice after a motor vehicle crash in our area, 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 Media, PA, and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The holiday season brings increased demands on drivers at the worst possible time. Between managing year-end work deadlines, coordinating family schedules, and completing shopping lists, most people find themselves mentally stretched thin. Add the pressure of holiday travel plans and social obligations, and it becomes clear why this time of year sees a spike in motor vehicle accidents. Distracted driving does not always mean texting behind the wheel; when concentration lapses for even a few seconds, the consequences can be severe for everyone on the road.

What Makes Holiday Driving More Dangerous?

Alcohol consumption rises dramatically during seasonal celebrations, putting more impaired motorists on the roads. Retailers extend shopping hours, meaning more people drive while fatigued after long workdays and late-night shopping trips; package deliveries surge, filling streets with commercial vehicles making frequent stops. Pedestrian traffic also increases around shopping districts and residential neighborhoods, creating additional hazards that demand attention.

How Do Mobile Devices Contribute to Holiday Accidents?

Smartphones are the leading cause of distracted driving year-round, and usage spikes during holidays: Research shows that reaching for a phone or reading a message takes eyes off the road long enough to travel the length of a football field at highway speeds.

People coordinate plans through texts, share photos of celebrations, and check social media while driving. Besides that, navigation apps guide drivers to unfamiliar locations, tempting them to adjust settings mid-route. Even hands-free devices create cognitive distractions that reduce reaction times and awareness.

Why Do Drowsy Drivers Pose Greater Risks During the Holidays?

Sleep deprivation reaches peak levels during the holiday season as people sacrifice rest to accommodate packed schedules and social commitments. Drowsy driving impairs reaction times, decision-making abilities, and situational awareness to degrees comparable with drunk driving. Studies show that staying awake for 18 hours produces impairment equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 percent, while 24 hours without sleep matches 0.10 percent intoxication levels.

Warning signs include frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting between lanes, and missing exits or traffic signs. Despite these dangers, many drivers push through fatigue rather than postponing holiday trips or arranging alternative transportation.

What Are the Most Effective Strategies to Prevent Distracted Driving?

Taking preventive steps before you start your vehicle dramatically reduces the likelihood of distractions. Before leaving, set your destination in the GPS, adjust mirrors and climate controls, and choose your music or podcast. It is also wise to put your phone on silent mode; on long trips, you can pull over somewhere safe to check messages.

Check traffic and weather reports, and plan your departure times with buffer room for traffic delays and detours. That eliminates the pressure to rush or take shortcuts through unfamiliar areas that demand extra focus.

How Can Parents Manage Child-Related Distractions?

Children require special consideration during holiday travel when excitement levels run high. Bring entertainment like books, tablets with downloaded content, or travel games to keep young passengers occupied; pack snacks and drinks in easy-to-reach containers that minimize mess and requests for help. Establish clear rules about behavior expectations before trips begin.

For serious situations requiring immediate attention, find a safe location to stop rather than attempting to address problems while driving. Older children can help by monitoring younger siblings and retrieving dropped items. Teaching kids about driving safety helps them recognize when their actions might distract the driver.

Our Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Advocate for Safe Holiday Driving

If you were injured by a distracted driver, compensation may be available for your damages. To learn more, 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 Media, PA and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Car accidents along Haddonfield Road and Route 38 in Cherry Hill often lead to disputes over fault and damages. Police reports created at the scene play a central role in determining how these claims proceed. For anyone pursuing compensation, the accuracy and availability of these reports can make a significant difference.

What Information Does a Cherry Hill Police Report Contain?

A Cherry Hill police report typically includes names, contact details, and insurance information for all parties involved. It may also have witness statements, descriptions of vehicle damage, weather, and road conditions, and the officer’s initial findings. It is an objective record of the event that insurance adjusters and attorneys often rely upon when reviewing a claim.

How Can a Police Report Help Determine Fault?

Police reports often include the responding officer’s assessment of how the accident occurred and which driver may have violated traffic laws. These observations carry weight because they are recorded by a neutral authority. Although not legally binding, insurers frequently reference this report to determine liability and evaluate settlement decisions.

Can Errors in a Police Report Affect My Claim?

Yes, inaccuracies can affect how a claim is evaluated. If the report contains incorrect information about the vehicles, location, or witness statements, the insurance company may reach the wrong conclusion about fault. We recommend reviewing the report as soon as it becomes available and notifying the police department if any factual corrections are needed.

How Do I Obtain a Copy of a Cherry Hill Police Report?

The Cherry Hill Police Department provides copies of accident reports, but those must be requested in person, by mail, or by phone. Its records department is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; it is located at 820 Mercer Street, and the phone number is 856-488-7822.

Why Are Police Reports Important for Insurance Claims?

Insurance adjusters rely on police reports because they contain first-hand observations from law enforcement. These reports help verify how the collision occurred, whether citations were issued, and if alcohol or distractions were involved. The objective details in the report help prevent disputes and clarify the facts during the claim evaluation process.

What Happens if No Police Report Was Filed?

When a police report is missing, proving fault becomes more difficult. Parties must depend on witness statements, evidence such as photographs and traffic camera footage, and medical documentation for the injuries.

Can a Police Report Be Used in Court?

Police reports can be submitted as supporting evidence in court proceedings, but they may not always be admissible in full. Certain sections, such as an officer’s opinion about fault, may be excluded. However, factual details like diagrams, timestamps, and statements from involved drivers often hold evidentiary value in legal proceedings.

How Soon Should I Request the Report After an Accident?

It is best to request the police report as soon as it is available, typically within a few days after the collision. Early access allows drivers and their representatives to review the document, correct potential errors, and begin preparing for insurance discussions or legal action if needed.

Why Are Reports from Haddonfield Road and Route 38 Especially Relevant?

These intersections and roadways see a high volume of traffic, often leading to rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and intersection accidents. Police reports from these areas frequently include details about signal timing, traffic congestion, and lane positioning. This information can be critical when reconstructing the events that led to the collision and assessing each driver’s responsibility.

How Do Police Reports Affect Settlement Negotiations?

During settlement discussions, both parties may rely heavily on the contents of the police report. Clear documentation of violations or driver behavior can influence how insurers value claims. A well-documented report can strengthen a case by clarifying the circumstances and supporting the injured party’s version of events.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Fight to Protect Your Rights

If you had a motor vehicle accident and have questions about a police report, 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 Media, PA, and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Being involved in a hit-and-run car accident is disorienting and stressful. These incidents occur when a driver strikes a vehicle or pedestrian and leaves the scene without providing contact information or assistance. Although it may be difficult to act calmly, there are steps drivers can take immediately after the accident to protect themselves and preserve any potential claims. Carefully handling the aftermath of a hit-and-run can increase the chances of fair compensation.

Why Do Drivers Flee Accident Scenes After Causing Crashes?

Drivers may flee accident scenes for several reasons, including fear of legal consequences, driving without a license, having an expired registration, and being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some may panic and act impulsively, whereas others may want to avoid insurance claims or financial responsibility. Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene is illegal and can result in serious criminal charges, civil liability, and increased penalties.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Cherry Hill?

The first steps after a hit-and-run are calling 911 and moving to a safe location if the accident occurs on a busy roadway. If possible, note the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number. It is important to report the accident to the police as soon as possible, providing all available details about the other vehicle. If there are no serious injuries, we still recommend getting a medical evaluation promptly; some injuries do not present symptoms until hours or days later.

How Can I Identify the Driver Who Fled the Scene?

If you do not have identifying information about the vehicle, witnesses can be a critical resource for identifying a hit-and-run driver. Bystanders or others may have seen the incident and might provide statements or descriptions to law enforcement. Traffic cameras, dashcam footage, or nearby security cameras may also capture the vehicle leaving the scene. Sharing this information with the police can improve the chances of locating the responsible party.

What Evidence Should I Collect After a Hit-and-Run?

Collecting evidence immediately following a hit-and-run is important. Take clear photographs of vehicle damage, skid marks, or debris; note the location, time, and weather conditions. Written statements from witnesses and any video footage from cameras near the accident can support claims. These detailed records provide a factual foundation for insurance claims and legal action.

Will My Insurance Cover a Hit-and-Run in Cherry Hill?

Insurance coverage for hit-and-run accidents typically depends on the type of policy held. For example, uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage may compensate for damages if the other driver cannot be located. Contact your insurance provider promptly to report the incident and start the claims process.

Can I Be Held Liable if I Did Not Cause the Accident?

Generally, liability rests with the driver who fled the scene. However, state laws may require drivers to follow specific procedures after an accident, such as remaining at the scene and notifying authorities. Failing to take these actions, even as a non-fault party, could complicate insurance or legal matters. Reporting the incident immediately and cooperating with authorities reduces potential complications.

What Should I Avoid Doing After a Hit-and-Run?

Avoid leaving the scene without reporting the accident, admitting fault to the other driver, or attempting to handle damages privately if injuries or significant property damage occurred. Do not chase the other driver, as this can create additional risk. Remaining calm, documenting the incident, and contacting authorities are the most appropriate steps to take.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Can Answer Your Questions About a Hit-and-Run Crash

For answers to questions about hit-and-run crash compensation, contact the 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 serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

When a car accident occurs, one of the first questions many people have is how long they have to file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for taking legal action, and missing that window can prevent recovery of compensation for personal injury or property damage. This timeline varies by state and by the type of claim, making it important to recognize how it applies to car accident cases.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Cherry Hill?

In most states, personal injury claims from a car accident must be filed within two to three years from the date of the crash. Some states provide shorter or longer periods depending on circumstances, such as when a government entity is involved. Filing within this period is necessary to have a court consider your claim.

Does the Statute of Limitations Start on the Day of the Accident?

Typically, the statute of limitations begins on the day the accident occurs. However, there are exceptions in cases where injuries do not appear immediately. The “discovery rule” allows the clock to start when the injury is identified or reasonably should have been identified.

Can the Statute of Limitations Be Extended?

Certain circumstances may extend the statute of limitations. These include cases involving minors, individuals with disabilities, and situations where the defendant is absent from the state. These extensions are limited and vary depending on local laws.

What Happens if I Miss the Deadline?

Missing the statute of limitations generally prevents the court from hearing your claim. Even if the case has merit, a judge can dismiss it because the filing deadline was not met. Acting promptly is necessary to preserve the right to pursue compensation.

Do Property Damage Claims Have a Different Deadline?

Yes, property damage claims often have a different statute of limitations than personal injury claims. In many states, property damage lawsuits must be filed within three to six years, depending on local statutes. It is important to confirm the specific timeline that applies to your situation.

Are There Exceptions for Government Entities?

Claims against government agencies usually have stricter timelines – many states require notice within six months to one year before filing a formal lawsuit. Failing to meet these shorter deadlines can prevent a claim from moving forward.

How Is the Statute of Limitations Calculated When Multiple Parties Are Involved?

When more than one party may be liable, the statute of limitations typically applies to each defendant individually. However, coordination may be necessary to file timely claims against all responsible parties. Courts generally do not extend the timeline simply because multiple defendants are involved.

Can Filing an Insurance Claim Affect the Statute of Limitations?

Submitting a claim to an insurance company does not automatically extend the statute of limitations. The deadline for filing a lawsuit still applies, even if the insurer is negotiating a settlement.

How Can I Determine the Deadline for My Case in Cherry Hill?

Statutes of limitations vary by state and the type of claim. Consulting local laws or an attorney can clarify the specific deadline that applies. Acting quickly reduces the risk of missing the window to file a lawsuit and protects potential recovery. It also allows more time for prompt evidence gathering, investigations, and case development.

Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Help You Achieve Justice

If you hope to pursue fair compensation for your damages caused by a motor vehicle accident, contact the 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 Media, PA, and serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.