If you have been involved in a car accident in Cherry Hill, you may feel uncertain about what to do next – the aftermath can leave you dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of insurance claims. It is essential to know that the laws in New Jersey are designed to provide individuals with compensation for injuries caused by the negligence of others.
The Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York help clients learn how to move forward with claims and help them explore all available legal options. Our experience can guide you through the often intricate process of pursuing compensation and protecting your rights.
Is New Jersey a No-Fault State?
New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that individuals involved in car accidents must first seek compensation from their insurance provider, regardless of who caused the accident. However, this system has specific thresholds that allow claimants to step outside of their own policies and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if certain conditions are met.
These conditions typically involve serious injuries, such as permanent disfigurement, broken bones, or significant impairment of bodily functions. For those who meet these criteria, the opportunity to pursue damages through a lawsuit becomes a viable option. A Cherry Hill car accident lawyer can assist in evaluating whether your case qualifies for this type of legal action. They will review medical records, accident reports, and other evidence to determine if the circumstances warrant filing a lawsuit in order to pursue additional compensation.
What Is Comparative Negligence?
New Jersey also follows a modified comparative negligence. Claimants can seek compensation for damages if they are not more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. Courts determine the percentages on a case-by-case basis. For example, if you are found 25 percent responsible for a crash and seeking $5,000 in damages, you would receive $3,750.
This key aspect of the state’s law often requires the insight of an experienced car accident lawyer, especially if there’s any debate over who caused the collision. A Cherry Hill car accident lawyer investigate crashes from every angle and gather extensive evidence to determine who was responsible in these cases.
How Does Negotiation Work for a Car Accident Claim in Cherry Hill?
The settlement negotiation process in car accident claims generally begins after the insurance companies have completed their investigations. If the insurance company determines that their policyholder is at fault, they may offer a settlement to the injured party. However, the initial settlement offer may not reflect the full extent of the damages suffered.
Our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers play key roles in this process by evaluating settlement offers and negotiating on behalf of clients. We assess whether the offer is fair, taking into account medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. If the offer is insufficient, we may advise you to reject it and proceed with further negotiations or even litigation.
How Do I Prove the Long-Term Impacts of My Injuries in a Car Accident Claim?
Proving the long-term effects of injuries sustained in a car accident requires careful documentation and evidence. Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or chronic pain can have lasting effects that may not be immediately apparent. In these cases, medical testimony plays a significant role in demonstrating the long-term impact of your injuries.
We can help by working with medical professionals who can testify about the nature and extent of your injuries. Additionally, we can source medical records, accident reconstruction reports, and expert testimony to illustrate the ongoing challenges and treatment needs you may face.
Can a Car Accident Lawyer Assist in Recovering Damages for Pain and Suffering?
In New Jersey, individuals involved in car accidents may be entitled to compensation for non-economic damages, including physical pain, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are subjective and do not have a fixed monetary value, which makes them more challenging to quantify.
We can work to document the full extent of your losses, leveraging testimonies from doctors, psychologists, and other professionals to demonstrate how your injuries have impacted your quality of life. We would also consider the severity of your injuries, the duration of your recovery, and any long-term physical or emotional challenges you may face when determining the amount of pain and suffering compensation to seek.
In Cases Involving Hit-and-Run Accidents, What Steps Can a Lawyer Take to Help Identify the Responsible Driver?
Identifying the responsible driver can be challenging in hit-and-run cases, but it is not impossible. One of the first steps is investigating the scene of the accident. Investigators use surveillance footage, speak with witnesses, and work with local law enforcement to locate any information that could lead to the identification of the driver.
In some cases, if the responsible driver cannot be located, your own insurance policy may cover the damages under an uninsured motorist provision. Exploring all available options for recovering compensation is important, including pursuing a claim against your insurance company or utilizing any available evidence to track down the at-fault driver.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer?
Hiring a Cherry Hill car accident lawyer offers several advantages. Local lawyers know the area’s courts, judges, and legal landscape. They are often more accessible and can provide personalized attention throughout the legal process. Additionally, a lawyer may have established relationships with local medical providers, which can help obtain necessary treatment and support your case.
Working with a lawyer familiar with Cherry Hill and the surrounding areas increases the likelihood of receiving efficient, tailored legal services that address your specific needs.
Get the Skilled Legal Help You Deserve from the Experienced Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York
The experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyers will guide you through every step of the legal process, from assessing your case to negotiating settlements or taking your case to court. Reach out to Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York today to schedule a free consultation. Call 856-843-8990 or submit our online form. Located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients in Camden County, Burlington County, and Gloucester County.