973.228.9898

New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers

Reviewed by Mazie Slater’s specialized car accident attorney [David A. Mazie – Managing Partner of Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman]

If you have been involved in a car accident in New Jersey, you may be facing a complex and overwhelming situation that involves medical bills, insurance claims, and potential legal battles. At Mazie Slater, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services to help you navigate the aftermath of an accident. Our experienced team of New Jersey car accident lawyers is near you and understands the unique challenges that car, bus and truck accident victims encounter in the Garden State, focusing on our intimate knowledge of New Jersey law. We are here to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses. Whether you are dealing with minor injuries or significant trauma, our commitment is to guide you through every step of the legal process of auto accidents with compassion and expertise.


Why Choose Mazie Slater Law Firm to Handle Your Car Accident Case

Mazie Slater Katz Freeman has some of the top-rated car accident lawyers in New Jersey, who are intimately familiar with the laws and the court system, and specialize in car accident lawsuits. Our team has won landmark decisions and record-breaking awards in all kinds of car accident cases. We believe that every auto accident injury victim has the right to hold the individual or entity responsible accountable, and we have a distinguished history of aggressively fighting for the rights of those injured or killed in car accidents. Mazie Slater accepts cases, including car accidents, under a contingency fee agreement, meaning there are no fees until we win. This policy guarantees your case is pursued with the energy and devotion it deserves.

Our Successful Car Accident Settlements

At Mazie Slater Katz and Freeman, our car accident attorneys have successfully represented seriously injured clients from across New Jersey in practically every type of car accident case, having won more than $1 billion for our clients. Our team has some of the best trial lawyers in the state, who have won many of the largest settlements and verdicts in New Jersey history. Read about some of the recoveries we have won on behalf of our clients who were injured in car, bus or truck accidents; these are some of the largest recoveries in New Jersey history for a car, bus or truck accident:

  • $135 million jury verdict for an alcohol liability lawsuit after a car accident that paralyzed a child, involving a multi-billion dollar international food and beverage company that sells beer at Giants Stadium.
    • This is the second largest personal injury jury verdict in New Jersey history.
  • $14.7 million settlement for a man in Essex County whose foot was run over by a car, causing CRPS/RSD, a severe neurological condition.
  • $12.75 million settlement for a man who incurred a traumatic brain injury when hit by a New Jersey Transit Bus while crossing the street in Essex County.
  • $11.24 million confidential settlement for a man paralyzed in a car accident.
  • $10 million settlement for a woman injured by a New Jersey Transit bus in Essex County, which led to her leg being amputated.
  • $6 million settlement for a woman in Bergen County who was in the crosswalk and hit by a school bus.
  • $5 million settlement for a truck accident in Passaic County when a man was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer.
  • $5 million confidential settlement for the wrongful death of a child killed in a car accident.
  • $3.9 million confidential settlement for a woman hit by a car while crossing the street.
  • $3.55 million settlement for a tragic car accident in Essex County resulting in the death of a child.
  • $3.18 million settlement for a fatal crash resulting in drowning when a car plunged into the Passaic River in Essex County.
  • $3.1 million settlement against the City of Newark for a fatal car accident resulting from a dangerous condition in a major roadway.
  • $2 million settlement for a man hit by a New Jersey Transit Bus in Essex County who suffered traumatic brain injuries.
  • $2 million settlement for two cousins who each suffered TBIs after being hit by a drunk driver in Middlesex County.
  • $737,500 settlement for a client injured in a collision with a truck in Somerset County.

* Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

Rated as one of the Best Car Accident Law Firms in New Jersey

Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman’s work on car, bus and truck accident cases has helped the firm to consistently be recognized among the top personal injury law firms in both New Jersey and across the nation. Here are some of the personal injury awards we have won over the years for our work on car accident cases: 

Recovering compensation for those who are injured in car, bus and truck accidents across New Jersey is the goal of our law practice, and unlike other law firms we only practice in New Jersey. We will analyze your specific car accident case, determine who’s responsible, and help to hold them accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our New Jersey car accident attorneys specialize in handling complex and challenging car accident cases ranging from bus accidents, truck accidents, collisions caused by a drunk driver, hit and run accidents, wrongful deaths caused by an auto accident, and more. We work hard to ensure that clients receive what they truly deserve when they have been injured in an accident on New Jersey roads.


New Jersey Car Accident Case Statistics

Auto Accidents are a subset of personal injury law and encompass a wide variety of cases, such as bus, truck, and drunk driving accidents. Below are some of the statistics about New Jersey car accident cases. 


Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle

At Mazie Slater, we specialize in all types of car accident cases, providing expert legal representation to victims across various scenarios. Here are the types of car accident cases we handle:

Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight disparity between buses and passenger vehicles. Our car accident attorneys specialize in bus accidents and represent victims injured by negligent bus drivers, including those involving New Jersey Transit, school buses, and commercial bus companies. We pursue claims for inadequate driver training, mechanical failures, and violations of safety regulations that lead to serious injuries or wrongful death.

Tractor-Trailer Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents involving tractor-trailers often result in catastrophic injuries due to the massive size and weight difference between trucks and passenger vehicles. These cases frequently involve complex federal regulations, driver fatigue, improper loading, or mechanical failures that require specialized legal expertise. Our truck accident attorneys are near you and have extensive experience pursuing claims against trucking companies, drivers, and other parties responsible for these devastating accidents that can forever change victims’ lives.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable tragedies that often result in devastating injuries or wrongful death due to impaired drivers’ reduced reaction times and poor decision-making. Our team of car accident lawyers work near you, and specializes in drunk driving cases and will aggressively pursue both the intoxicated driver and, when applicable, establishments that over-served alcohol under New Jersey’s dram shop laws. We fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for victims and their families while holding all responsible parties accountable for these senseless and avoidable crashes.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of preventable car accidents in New Jersey, involving activities like texting, phone calls, eating, or other behaviors that divert attention from the road. Our auto accident lawyers aggressively pursue claims against negligent drivers who cause accidents while distracted, seeking compensation for the serious injuries and damages that result from these entirely avoidable collisions. We work with local New Jersey accident reconstruction experts and pull cell phone records to prove distracted driving and hold responsible parties accountable.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Multi-vehicle accidents involving three or more cars create complex liability scenarios that require thorough investigation to determine fault among multiple parties. These chain-reaction collisions often result in severe injuries and significant property damage, with fault potentially shared among several drivers. Our experienced team of motor vehicle accident attorneys meticulously analyzes accident reconstruction reports, witness statements, and traffic patterns to identify all liable parties and maximize compensation for our clients.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents leave victims without immediate recourse when the responsible driver flees the scene, but our attorneys work diligently to identify negligent drivers and pursue all available compensation sources. We collaborate with law enforcement, utilize traffic cameras and witness testimony, and explore uninsured motorist coverage to ensure victims receive the financial support they need. Our team understands the unique challenges these cases present and fights tirelessly to hold fleeing drivers accountable for their actions.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most devastating types of car accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the combined force of both vehicles. These crashes frequently occur when drivers cross center lines due to impairment, distraction, or reckless driving behavior. Our experienced car accident injury attorneys are near you and fight to secure maximum compensation for victims and families affected by these traumatic accidents, addressing the extensive medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering that typically result.

Rear-End Collisions

While rear-end collisions may appear straightforward, they can cause serious injuries, including whiplash, spinal damage, and traumatic brain injuries, particularly in high-speed impacts. The following driver is typically at fault for failing to maintain a safe distance or stop in time, but our New Jersey car accident lawyers are near you and investigate all factors, including sudden stops, brake light failures, or road conditions. We pursue comprehensive compensation for immediate and long-term medical treatment, lost wages, and the pain and suffering associated with these deceptively serious accidents.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, particularly when vehicles are not adequately secured or have design defects. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including high speeds, sharp turns, tire defects, or top-heavy vehicle designs. At Mazie Slater Katz and Freeman, our team has some of the best car accident attorneys in the state. We investigate potential product liability claims against manufacturers while also pursuing traditional negligence claims to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable for these devastating accidents.

Single Car Accidents

Single car accidents may involve only one vehicle, but they can still result from the negligence of others, including defective vehicle parts, poor road maintenance, or hazardous conditions created by third parties. Our New Jersey car accident injury lawyers thoroughly investigate these incidents to identify all potentially liable parties, from municipalities responsible for road maintenance to manufacturers of defective auto parts. We ensure that victims receive compensation even when the accident initially appears to involve only one vehicle.

Intersection Accidents

Intersection accidents commonly occur when drivers fail to yield right-of-way, run red lights, or make improper turns, often resulting in dangerous side-impact or T-bone collisions. These crashes frequently cause serious injuries due to the vulnerable side areas of vehicles and the perpendicular force of impact. We thoroughly investigate traffic signals, witness accounts, and traffic camera footage to establish liability and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists face significantly higher risks of severe injury or death in accidents due to their lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles. At Mazie Slater, we have car accident attorneys who specialize in motorcycle accidents and understand the unique dynamics of motorcycle accidents, including visibility issues, road hazards, and the bias motorcyclists often face from insurance companies. We fight aggressively to overcome these challenges and secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and the life-altering injuries that frequently result from motorcycle collisions.

Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to cyclists’ vulnerability when struck by motor vehicles, with drivers frequently failing to see cyclists or respect their right to share the road. Our personal injury attorneys specialize in car accidents involving cyclists and understand the unique challenges cyclists face, including driver negligence, dangerous road conditions, and the bias cyclists often encounter from insurance companies who attempt to blame the victim. We fight aggressively to overcome these obstacles and secure fair compensation for the serious injuries, medical expenses, and long-term care that bicycle accident victims frequently require.

High Traffic Road Accidents 

Accidents on high-traffic roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway often involve multiple vehicles and result in severe injuries due to high speeds and heavy traffic volume. These major thoroughfares present unique hazards, including construction zones, weather-related conditions, and aggressive driving behaviors that contribute to serious collisions. Our legal team of car accident experts has extensive experience handling complex cases involving these major New Jersey highways, pursuing claims against all responsible parties while navigating the jurisdictional and procedural complexities these cases often present.

Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Accidents

When at-fault drivers lack adequate insurance coverage or flee the scene, victims can still pursue compensation through their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, though insurance companies often resist paying these claims. Our experienced car injury lawyers navigate the complex process of pursuing UM/UIM benefits while also investigating all potential sources of compensation to ensure victims receive the full financial support they deserve. We fight against insurance company tactics designed to minimize payouts and work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation even when the responsible driver cannot be identified or lacks sufficient coverage.


Common Causes of Car Accidents in New Jersey

Understanding the common causes of car accidents is essential for promoting road safety and protecting your rights if you find yourself involved in an accident. Here are some of the primary factors that contribute to car accidents:

  • Speeding: Exceeding speed limits is a major contributor to traffic accidents. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of crashes.
  • Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention from the road, significantly increasing the risk of collisions.
  • Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs judgment and reaction times, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
  • Reckless Driving: Reckless behaviors such as aggressive driving, tailgating, and road rage create dangerous situations on the road, often leading to serious accidents.
  • Poor Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions—such as rain, snow, ice, and fog—can create hazardous driving environments. Reduced visibility and slippery roads increase the risk of accidents.
  • Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads can create dangerous conditions for drivers.
  • Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals can result in severe side-impact collisions.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: Young or inexperienced drivers may lack the skills necessary to navigate complex driving situations safely, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
  • Fatigue: Drowsy driving significantly impairs a driver’s ability to react promptly and make sound decisions on the road.
  • Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures or defects in vehicles can lead to loss of control and accidents that could have been prevented by regular maintenance.

Common Injuries Resulting From Auto Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting effects on victims’ lives. Here are some of the most common injuries that we see in our New Jersey car accident cases:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Car accidents are a leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), which occur when the brain is damaged due to a blow or penetrating injury. Symptoms can range from headaches and dizziness to severe cognitive impairments and long-term disabilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact of a car crash can cause significant damage to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or total paralysis. These injuries to the spinal cord often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Back Injuries

Back injuries, including herniated discs and muscle strains, are prevalent after auto accidents. These injuries may not manifest immediately but can cause significant pain and disability over time.

Broken Bones

Fractures are common in car accidents, affecting various parts of the body such as:

  • Arms and Legs: Commonly fractured during impacts or when bracing for a crash.
  • Ribs: Often broken due to seatbelt pressure or direct impact.
  • Pelvis: High-impact collisions can lead to severe pelvic fractures.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries can occur when the body is forcefully impacted by objects within the vehicle or by external debris. This may include:

  • Internal Bleeding: Resulting from damaged blood vessels.
  • Organ Damage: High-impact crashes can injure vital organs, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Burns

Burns may occur if a vehicle catches fire after a crash or if skin comes into contact with hot surfaces or fluids. Severe burn injuries often necessitate extensive medical treatment, including surgery.

Soft Tissue Injuries

In addition to fractures, soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and contusions are common in car accidents. These injuries can lead to prolonged pain and rehabilitation needs. We commonly see these soft tissue injuries in the joints such as: 

  • Knee Injuries: Knees are often impacted by dashboard collisions or sudden stops. Injuries can range from bruises to severe ligament tears.
  • Neck Injuries: Whiplash is one of the most common neck injuries resulting from car accidents, and it involves damage to the soft tissues in the neck and can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.

Lacerations and Abrasions

Cuts and scrapes on your limbs and face from broken glass or metal debris are frequent in car accidents. While some may seem minor, others might require surgical correction.


How Fault Is Determined In Car Accident Cases 

Determining fault in a car accident is a crucial aspect of the claims process, as it directly affects your ability to recover damages. In New Jersey, fault is typically assessed based on the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the actions of all parties involved. Here’s how the process generally works:

  1. Police Report: After an accident, law enforcement usually arrives at the scene and creates a police report. This report includes details about the accident, such as witness statements, evidence collected, and any traffic violations observed. While the police report is not admissible in a litigation, it carries significant weight with insurance companies and can provide a foundational basis for determining liability.
  2. Insurance Investigation: Once a claim is filed, insurance companies will conduct their investigations to determine fault. They will review the police report, gather statements from both drivers and consider any available evidence, such as photographs of the scene and vehicle damage. Insurance adjusters assess these factors to establish who was negligent or violated traffic laws.
  3. Negligence Standards: In New Jersey, the legal standard for determining fault often revolves around negligence. This means that if one driver failed to exercise reasonable care—such as speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence—they may be deemed at fault for the accident.
  4. Comparative Negligence: New Jersey follows a comparative negligence system, which means that if both parties share some degree of fault for the accident, each party’s compensation may be reduced by their percentage of responsibility. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an accident while the other driver is 80% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.  However, in order to collect damages from the defendant(s), they must be at least 50% at fault.

Understanding how fault is determined can significantly impact your case and potential recovery after a car accident. If you have questions about your specific situation or need assistance navigating this process, contact the attorneys at Mazie Slater for a free consultation.


Our Process for Handling Car Accident Cases

Navigating the legal process after a car accident can be daunting, but understanding the steps involved can help you feel more prepared and empowered. Here’s an overview of the typical legal process for handling car accident cases:

  • Initial Consultation: The process begins with an initial consultation, during which you meet with one of our experienced car accident attorneys. During this meeting, we will evaluate your case by reviewing police reports, medical records, and eyewitness accounts. This comprehensive assessment helps us establish liability and determine the potential value of your claim.
  • Investigation: Once you decide to proceed with legal representation, our team will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. This may include collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, analyzing police reports, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts. 
  • Demand Letter: After gathering all relevant information, the attorney handling your car accident case will draft a demand letter to the insurance company representing the at-fault party. This letter outlines the facts of your case, establishes liability, and specifies the compensation we are seeking for your injuries and damages, initiating the negotiation process.
  • Negotiation: Following the submission of the demand letter, we will negotiate with the insurance company. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If the insurance company responds with a low offer, we will advocate on your behalf to negotiate a better settlement.
  • Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations do not lead to a satisfactory settlement, we may recommend filing a lawsuit. This involves preparing and submitting legal documents to initiate court proceedings. Our car accident attorneys will guide you through this process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that your case is presented effectively.
  • Discovery Phase: Once a lawsuit is filed, both parties enter the discovery phase. This is where evidence is exchanged between the plaintiff (you) and the defendant (the at-fault party). Discovery may include:
    • Interrogatories: Written questions that must be answered under oath.
    • Depositions: Oral testimonies taken from witnesses or parties involved.
    • Requests for documents: Both sides may request relevant documents from each other.
  • Trial Preparation: If your case proceeds to trial, our team of experienced car accident lawyers will prepare diligently by gathering evidence, preparing witness testimonies, and developing a strong legal strategy tailored to your situation.
  • Trial: During the trial, both the plaintiff and defendant will present their cases before a judge or jury. Our car accident attorneys are some of the best trial lawyers in the state and will advocate vigorously on your behalf, presenting evidence and witness testimony to support your claim for damages.

Compensation & Damages in Car Accident Cases

Potential Compensation in Car Accident Cases

At Mazie Slater Katz & Freeman, our New Jersey car accident attorneys have achieved remarkable success obtaining financial recoveries for car accident victims throughout the state, securing settlements and jury verdicts ranging from six figures to tens of millions of dollars. When evaluating the potential value of a car accident claim, multiple critical elements influence the final compensation amount:

  • Nature and force of the impact and resulting vehicle destruction
  • Scope of physical injuries and long-term medical prognosis
  • Pain levels and psychological impact experienced following the crash
  • Employment interruption and future income reduction potential
  • Required medical care both immediate and anticipated
  • Hospital bills, surgery costs, and rehabilitation expenses already incurred
  • Vehicle replacement costs and damaged personal property
  • Insurance policy limits and assets of the responsible parties
  • Percentage of responsibility allocated under New Jersey’s fault-sharing rules

Our experienced trial lawyers perform comprehensive case investigations, collaborating with certified accident analysts and treating physicians to construct powerful arguments showcasing the complete extent of damages caused by reckless or careless driving. We recognize that every collision represents a life-altering event for innocent victims, and our mission centers on ensuring accountability for dangerous drivers while maximizing financial recovery for those harmed by their negligence.

*Each car accident case is unique, and the value of your case will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your injury.

Types of Damages for Car Accident Cases

New Jersey car accident victims can pursue compensation through two distinct damage categories: economic and non-economic losses. Review the details of each type below:

  • Economic Damages – These represent calculable monetary losses including past and future medical bills, income lost from work absence, physical therapy expenses, automobile repair or replacement costs, and any other quantifiable expenses stemming from your injuries.
  • Non-Economic Damages – These encompass immeasurable losses such as physical pain, mental anguish, reduced life satisfaction, and diminished quality of daily activities. New Jersey permits substantial awards for non-economic damages in motor vehicle cases, enabling appropriate compensation that reflects the true impact of your suffering.

Remember that every car accident case presents distinct circumstances, with compensation amounts varying significantly based on injury severity, life disruption, fault percentages, and available proof. Our skilled team of car accident lawyers are dedicated to pursuing every available dollar of compensation while expertly handling New Jersey’s shared fault laws to optimize your recovery.


Schedule A Free Car Accident Case Consultation Today

Navigating what to do after a car accident can be stressful, even more so if you are injured. Make sure you are getting a car accident lawyer who is near you in New Jersey to help you navigate insurance, injuries, and restitution. At Mazie Slater, we are committed to helping victims of all types of car accidents understand their rights and pursue justice. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let our top car accident attorneys help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.


Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Cases

You can find answers to frequently asked questions about car accident cases in this section. We are here to provide valuable information on how best to seek compensation for physical or emotional harm.

Do I need to hire a lawyer after a car accident?

Hiring a lawyer after a car accident is highly advisable, especially if you have sustained injuries or significant property damage. Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and legal processes can be overwhelming. A skilled car accident attorney can provide invaluable support by investigating the accident, gathering essential evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit against another driver in New Jersey?

The statute of limitations in New Jersey for a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident unless you are a minor under the age of eighteen. In other words, you must file your lawsuit with the court within two years, or you will be forever barred. There are also other rules for filing a claim against any New Jersey governmental employee or entity.  That time period is much shorter.  It is important to contact an attorney as soon as you are in an accident in order to preserve your rights. 

How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney in New Jersey? 

Almost every attorney in New Jersey will accept the case on a “contingency fee” basis, and Mazie Slater Katz and Freeman is no exception. Under a contingency fee arrangement, an attorney will not be paid unless you recover damages, either by a settlement or jury verdict. If you recover nothing, you are not responsible for paying the attorney. If there is a recovery, the attorney will take a specified percentage of the recovery as a fee and will be reimbursed off the top for any expenses advanced for the litigation. The client is responsible for the payment of all outstanding medical bills and liens, regardless of whether there is a recovery. Along with our contingency fee, our experienced car accident attorneys offer free consultations to evaluate your case!

Can I sue for personal injuries and damages I suffered as a passenger in an automobile accident?

Yes. You can pursue a claim against any of the drivers at fault for an automobile accident, even against the driver of the vehicle in which you were a passenger. 

What steps should I take after being in a car accident? 

  1. Evaluate the scene
  2. Call emergency services
  3. Take photos or video of the accident scene
  4. Wait for the police to arrive
  5. Be evaluated by a medical professional
  6. Seek appropriate medical treatment as soon as possible
  7. Contact your insurance company
  8. Contact an experienced auto accident attorney

How can I find an experienced car accident injury lawyer near me?

Mazie Slater Katz and Freeman are proud to serve clients throughout New Jersey in the following counties: Atlantic County, Bergen County, Burlington County, Camden County, Essex County, Gloucester County, Hudson County, Hunterdon County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Morris County, Ocean County, Passaic County, Somerset County, Sussex County, Union County, and Warren County.