A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant, leaving you with mounting medical bills, repair costs, and the trauma of dealing with insurance companies. In New Jersey alone, there were over 270,000 motor vehicle accidents in 2022, with tens of thousands resulting in injuries. The proper guidance is critical in the complex legal landscape that follows a crash.
This is where the expertise of car accident lawyers becomes indispensable. Their knowledge of personal injury law and ability to bargain with insurance companies and advocate for fair compensation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
This article will unveil the reason why the expertise of an attorney is crucial in a car accident case.
Accurate Evaluation of Your Claim
One of the most significant benefits of working with car accident lawyers is their ability to assess the total value of your claim. Insurance companies often push for quick settlements that may not cover all damages.
Studies show that people who work with attorneys in personal injury cases receive settlements 3.5 times larger than those who handle claims independently. An attorney will evaluate medical bills, lost wages, property destroyed, pain and suffering, and future costs to ensure you get what you truly deserve.
Navigating the Legal Process and Deadlines
New Jersey adheres to a no-fault insurance system, which can confuse many accident victims. The state requires drivers to turn to their insurance policy to cover basic medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. However, in severe injuries or significant financial losses, you may still be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Attorneys are well-versed in the legal framework, statutes of limitations, and intricacies of filing lawsuits. For instance, in New Jersey, you typically have two years to file a personal injury claim following an accident. Missing this deadline can destroy your ability to seek compensation. An attorney ensures all paperwork is filed on time and the legal process is handled efficiently.
Handling Insurance Companies
While vital to compensating accident victims, insurance companies primarily focus on minimizing payouts. Without proper representation, accident victims may be under pressure to accept lowball offers.
Car accident lawyers are skilled negotiators who deal with insurance companies daily. They understand adjusters’ tactics to reduce claims and will fight to avoid exploiting you, making it crucial to seek help from affordable traffic lawyers near me to protect your rights. Having an advocate communicate with the insurance company gives you time to focus on recovery without the added stress.
Proving Liability and Gathering Evidence
Ascertaining fault in a car accident can be complicated. Determining liability is crucial for a successful claim, whether there’s a dispute over who was responsible or a lack of clear evidence. Advocates have the resources to conduct independent investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals to build a strong case.
An accurate and verifiable report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that driver error is the main cause of car accidents, with speeding, distracted driving, and alcohol use being significant contributors. Attorneys use these statistics, alongside evidence from your case, to demonstrate fault and strengthen your position.
Maximizing Compensation
Without legal expertise, many accident victims may not understand all the types of compensation they are entitled to. Compensation may include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost wages, loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even loss of enjoyment of life.
In intense injury cases, such as those concerning permanent disability or death, the stakes are even higher. A skilled attorney will pursue every avenue to secure maximum compensation for you and your family. A 2019 study revealed that individuals with legal representation were more likely to secure larger settlements and be paid for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
In the aftermath of a car accident, the stakes are often higher than they appear. The legal and financial ramifications can affect you for years to come, which is why having the expertise of car accident lawyers on your side is invaluable.
