Best 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 attorneys understands the unique challenges that car 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 with compassion and expertise.

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

Mazie Slater Katz Freeman are car accident lawyers who are based in New Jersey, are intimately familiar with the laws and the court system, and specialize in car accident lawsuits. Recognizing our winning record and dedication to our clients, the Best Lawyers in America publication named our attorneys to its Best New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyers list which included peer nominations and evaluations, third-party research, and evaluation on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. 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. 

Successful Car Accident Lawsuits Represented By Mazie Slater 

At Mazie Slater Katz Freeman, we have been incredibly successful in winning substantial verdicts and settlements for our clients who are seriously injured in New Jersey car and bus accidents, such as the following recoveries for our clients:

• $14.7 million settlement for a man whose foot was run over by a car, causing CRPS/RSD, a severe neurological condition.
• $12.75 million settlement for a man hit by a New Jersey Transit Bus while crossing the street.
• $11.24 million for a man paralyzed in a car accident.
• $10 million settlement for the woman injured by a New Jersey Transit bus, which led to her leg being amputated.
• $6 million settlement for a bus accident case.
• $5 million settlement for a truck accident for a man 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 award for a woman hit by a car while crossing the street.
• $3.55 million settlement for a tragic car accident 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.
• $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 who suffered traumatic brain injuries
• $2 million settlement for drunk driving/liquor liability.
• $737,500 settlement for a client injured in a collision with a truck.

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

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:

• Rear-end collisions
• Head-on collisions
• Side-impact accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Commercial truck accidents
• Bus accidents
• Uber and Rideshare Accidents

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads can create dangerous conditions for drivers.

Common Injuries Resulting From Car 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 sustained in car accidents:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Car accidents are a leading cause of 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 often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. It involves damage to the soft tissues in the neck and can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.

Back Injuries: Back injuries, including herniated discs and muscle strains, are prevalent after car 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 burns often necessitate extensive medical treatment, including surgeries.

Facial Injuries: Facial injuries can result from broken glass or impact with steering wheels, dashboards, or airbags. These injuries may lead to disfigurement and require surgical correction.

Knee Injuries: The knees are vulnerable during accidents, often impacted by dashboard collisions or sudden stops. Injuries can range from bruises to severe ligament tears.

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.

Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts and scrapes from broken glass or metal debris are frequent in car accidents. While they may seem minor, they can lead to infections and scarring. 

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:

1. 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.

2. Investigation

Once you decide to proceed with legal representation, our team will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. This may include:

• Collecting evidence, such as photographs of the scene and vehicle damage.
• Interviewing witnesses to gather statements.
• Analyzing police reports for accuracy and details about the accident.
• Consulting experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, if necessary.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 attorneys will guide you through this process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that your case is presented effectively.

6. 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.

7. 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. 

8. Trial

During the trial, both the plaintiff and defendant will present their cases before a judge or jury. Our attorneys will advocate vigorously on your behalf, presenting evidence and witness testimony to support your claim for damages.

9. Verdict 

After deliberation, the judge or jury will render a verdict. 

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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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. 

Potential Compensation And Damages in Car Accident Cases

Determining the value of a car accident case in New Jersey depends on several factors, each of which plays a crucial role in assessing potential compensation. Our New Jersey car accident attorneys can help you determine which of these factors plays a role in your overall compensation: 

Medical Expenses: The cost of medical treatment is often the most significant factor. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need as a result of the car accident.

Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This also includes future earning potential if the accident has left you unable to return to your previous job or has diminished your ability to earn a living.

Pain and Suffering: New Jersey allows for compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the accident. This can vary widely depending on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life.

Property Damage: Compensation can cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Contributory Negligence: New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident. If you are more than 50% at fault, you will not be entitled to anything.

Impact on Quality of Life: If the accident has led to a significant decrease in your ability to enjoy life or perform daily activities, this can also increase the value of your case.

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

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 local car accident injury lawyer to help you navigate insurance, injuries, and restitution. At Mazie Slater, we are committed to helping victims of car and bus accidents understand their rights and pursue justice. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Cases

How common are car accidents in New Jersey?

Car accidents are common in New Jersey, home to 8.8 million residents and a staggering 6.7 million vehicles. As the most densely populated state in the nation, New Jersey has more than its fair share of car crashes. Last year, 63,333 car accidents occurred on Garden State roads; over thirty-five percent of these crashes happened in populous parts of Essex, Bergen, and Middlesex counties. Despite safety advances, 586 fatal automobile and truck crashes occurred, causing a total of 627 car-related deaths. 

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. 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.

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.