Long Branch Car Accident Lawyers

The aftermath of a serious motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially when you or a loved one is facing injuries, insurance claims, and complicated legal issues. At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our Long Branch car accident lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal assistance to clients seeking rightful compensation and justice. With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of New Jersey’s legal landscape, we strive to support individuals and families during challenging times.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately Following a Car Accident?

The moments immediately after a car accident are critical to protecting your safety and laying the groundwork for a strong legal claim. First, prioritize health and safety by moving yourself and others out of harm’s way if possible. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Obtaining an official police report is important, as it provides documentation of the incident.

Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and visible injuries. Exchange contact information with the other drivers, passengers, and any witnesses. It is also important to avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene. Once your immediate needs are addressed, consult with our Long Branch car accident lawyers to understand your legal rights and begin building your case.

Why Should I Hire Long Branch Car Accident Lawyers to Handle My Case?

Car accidents often involve legal issues that are challenging to address without professional guidance. Our Long Branch car accident lawyers can help you understand the legal process and avoid pitfalls that could undermine your claim. We can investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf.

We know how insurers operate and are prepared to advocate for the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize payouts, but with skilled legal representation, you have a better chance of recovering damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses.

What Types of Compensation Can Be Pursued After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, you may be entitled to recover damages related to the physical, financial, and emotional impact of the incident. Common categories of compensation include:

• Medical Expenses: Costs associated with emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injury, as well as potential future income losses if you cannot return to your previous job.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs to or replacement of your vehicle and other belongings damaged in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

How Do Insurance Claims Work After a Car Accident?

Filing an insurance claim is one of the first steps after an accident, but it is not always straightforward.  New Jersey is a “choice no-fault state,” but what does that mean? Drivers choose between “no-fault” and “standard” policies:

No-fault or basic policies have lower limits and don’t include liability coverage for bodily injury. Though the premiums are less costly, they can expose you to certain risks. You might have to pay considerable out-of-pocket expenses, especially if you are found liable for a crash.

Standard policies have higher limits and added coverage options, including bodily injury coverage. So, if you’re found liable for an accident, your own insurance company can cover the other party’s medical damages up to your policy limit.

With that in mind, the NJ car insurance claim filing process can be complicated.

Filing an insurance claim is one of the first steps after an accident, but it is not always straightforward. In New Jersey, drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which pays for medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP may not cover all costs, and disputes over liability often arise when seeking additional compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.

What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Long Branch?

Long Branch car accidents in Long Branch are typically caused by:

• Distracted driving, like texting, using a phone, or other activities that divert attention from the road.
• Speeding, which reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing judgment and motor skills.
• Failing to follow traffic signals, including running red lights or ignoring stop signs.

Other factors include hazardous weather conditions, poorly maintained roads, or mechanical defects in vehicles. Our Long Branch car accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to determine every potential cause of a crash.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the incident. Failing to take legal action within this time frame could result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

That limit applies to personal injury claims as well as wrongful death lawsuits brought on behalf of a deceased individual. Because building a strong case takes time, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

What Should I Expect During the Legal Process?

The legal process for a car accident claim typically begins with a consultation, during which our Long Branch car accident lawyers will evaluate the details of your case and provide advice on your options. If you decide to proceed, the next steps involve gathering evidence, calculating damages, and filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. A settlement might be offered, but we may need to negotiate if it is not satisfactory.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to litigation. During this stage, we will represent you in court, presenting evidence and advocating for a favorable outcome. Although litigation can be time-consuming, it is often necessary to achieve justice in cases where liability is contested, or compensation offers are inadequate.

Contact the Experienced Long Branch Car Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC

You do not have to face the aftermath of a car accident alone. At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, the dedicated Long Branch car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process and advocate for the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call 732-920-8383 or submit our online form. Located in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Atlantic County, Mercer County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County.