Protecting the Rights of Car Accident Victims
Car accidents happen every day in New Jersey and throughout the United States. When they do, the victims are often left to deal with significant pain and suffering, as well as mounting medical expenses and other financial losses. If you were injured in a car accident or if you lost a loved one in a fatal crash, you have the right to seek fair compensation for your damages.
At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., our Forked River car accident lawyers have been representing injured victims and families who have wrongfully lost loved ones for over 80 years. We know the law, we know the challenges you are facing, and we know how to help you fight for the maximum compensation you need to recover from injury.
Call us at (609) 614-3375 or online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.
Car Accident Laws in New Jersey
New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system. This means that in the event of a car accident, your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and other out-of-pocket losses, regardless of who was at fault.
However, if you want to file a personal injury lawsuit for a car accident outside of the no-fault insurance system, you must meet a specific threshold for serious injuries. This threshold determines whether you can pursue a claim for pain and suffering or other non-economic damages beyond what your no-fault insurance covers.
You must demonstrate that your injury meets one of the following criteria to be eligible to file a lawsuit:
- Death: If the accident resulted in death, you can file a wrongful death claim.
- Permanent Injury: The injury must be of a nature that is permanent and severe. This means it must result in a lasting impairment or disability.
- Significant Disfigurement: Injuries that cause significant and permanent disfigurement qualify.
- Disabling Loss of Body Function: If the injury results in the loss of a bodily function that is significant and permanent, it meets the threshold. For example, a major limb loss or paralysis would qualify.
- Fractures: Certain types of fractures can meet the serious injury threshold, particularly those that result in significant impairment or disability.
If you are partially at fault for causing a crash,New Jersey follows a "modified comparative negligence" rule. This means that you can recover damages in a car accident lawsuit as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the most common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a common neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then snapped back. This motion can cause the muscles and ligaments in the neck to stretch and tear. The symptoms of whiplash can take several days to appear and may include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
- Broken Bones: The force of a car accident can cause bones to break. The bones that are most commonly broken in car accidents are the ribs, collarbone, and bones in the hands and feet. Broken bones can be extremely painful and may require surgery to repair.
- Head Injuries: Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs occur when the head is struck by an object, such as the steering wheel or the side of the vehicle, or when the head is whipped back and forth in a collision. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening brain damage.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a car accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, which can result in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and other complications. Back injuries, such as herniated discs, are also common in car accidents.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as internal bleeding and damage to organs, are common in car accidents and can be life-threatening. It is important to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident to check for internal injuries.
- Cuts and Lacerations: The force of a car accident can cause broken glass and other objects to become airborne. This can result in cuts and lacerations. In some cases, these injuries can be severe and may require stitches.
- Burns: Car accidents can cause fires and explosions, which can result in severe burns. Burns can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement.
Why Choose Levinson Axelrod, P.A.?
After a car accident, you are likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You may be dealing with mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses. You may be unable to work and may feel like your life has been turned upside down.
At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the fair recovery you are owed. We know the law, we know the challenges you are facing, and we know how to help you get back on your feet.
Since 1939, our firm has been proudly serving clients throughout New Jersey. We have recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients, and we are prepared to help you, too.
Our team includes more than 30 attorneys, as well as an extensive support staff. We work together on every case, pooling our knowledge and resources to build the strongest possible claim for each client we serve. When you choose our firm, you can be confident knowing that you will have a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals on your side.
Contact ustoday toschedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Forked River.
