Car accidents in New Jersey are an unfortunate reality that thousands of drivers face every year. From busy highways to suburban streets, accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons. Understanding the primary causes of these accidents and knowing how to file a personal injury claim can be crucial in protecting your rights and securing compensation for any damages or injuries you’ve suffered.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common causes of car accidents in New Jersey and provide guidance on how to file a successful personal injury claim following an accident.
1. Distracted Driving: A Leading Cause
One of the most common causes of car accidents in New Jersey is distracted driving. Whether it’s texting, adjusting the radio, or eating behind the wheel, distracted drivers are a major hazard. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in 2022 alone. In New Jersey, the issue is so serious that the state has strict laws prohibiting texting while driving and other distractions.
Distracted drivers often fail to notice changes in traffic patterns or react too late to prevent a collision. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, gathering evidence, such as phone records or witness statements, can strengthen your personal injury claim.
2. Speeding: Exceeding the Limit
Speeding is another frequent cause of car accidents in New Jersey. High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of collisions. Speeding can result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities, especially on major highways such as the Garden State Parkway or the New Jersey Turnpike.
If you were injured in an accident where the other driver was speeding, you may be entitled to compensation. Speeding violations or traffic citations issued to the at-fault driver can serve as critical evidence in supporting your claim.
3. Drunk Driving: Impairment Behind the Wheel
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant issue on New Jersey roads, impairing judgment, reducing reaction times, and increasing the risk of serious accidents. In 2022, 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes across the U.S. Drunk drivers are four times more likely to crash, and the severity increases with higher Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).
If you are involved in an accident with a driver who is impaired, it’s essential to report the situation to the police immediately. DUI charges filed against the at-fault driver will support your personal injury claim and could lead to punitive damages being awarded in addition to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
4. Weather-Related Accidents
New Jersey experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from heavy rain and snow to icy roads and fog. Poor weather can lead to reduced visibility, slick surfaces, and dangerous driving conditions, causing accidents even for the most cautious drivers. While drivers cannot control the weather, they are expected to adjust their driving habits accordingly, such as reducing speed or increasing the following distance between vehicles.
If another driver fails to account for adverse weather conditions and causes an accident, they may still be held liable for your injuries. Documenting the weather conditions at the time of the crash, along with police reports and witness statements, can bolster your case.
5. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Running red lights and stop signs are reckless behaviors that frequently lead to accidents at intersections. These types of accidents often result in severe injuries due to the sudden, high-impact nature of collisions. In New Jersey, disobeying traffic signals and signs is not only illegal but also highly dangerous, increasing the risk of side-impact or T-bone collisions.
To pursue a claim against a driver who ran a red light or stop sign, obtaining footage from nearby traffic cameras or dashcam recordings can be pivotal in proving liability.
6. Tailgating and Aggressive Driving
Tailgating—following another vehicle too closely—is a dangerous practice that increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions, especially in congested areas. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as road rage, excessive honking, and weaving in and out of traffic, are also common causes of accidents in New Jersey.
If your accident was caused by an aggressive driver, you may be able to file a claim for any injuries or damages sustained. In cases of extreme aggression, you may also pursue punitive damages to penalize the at-fault driver for their reckless behavior.
How to File a Personal Injury Claim After a Car Accident in New Jersey
Filing a personal injury claim after a car accident in New Jersey can be a complex process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the legal requirements and maximize your compensation:
1. Seek Medical Attention
The first step after a car accident is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as whiplash or concussions. Visiting a doctor will not only ensure your well-being but will also provide critical medical documentation to support your claim.
2. Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence is crucial to building a strong personal injury claim. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses and request a copy of the police report.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
In New Jersey, you are required to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who is at fault. However, if your injuries are severe or your expenses exceed this limit, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver.
4. Determine Liability
Proving fault in a car accident is essential for obtaining compensation beyond what your insurance policy covers. Factors like traffic violations, witness statements, and accident scene evidence help establish liability. Under New Jersey’s Comparative Negligence Law, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages. Ensuring accurate fault determination is crucial for maximizing your claim.
5. File a Claim with the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If the at-fault driver is responsible for the accident, you can file a claim with their insurance company to recover additional compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
6. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating the intricacies of New Jersey’s personal injury laws can be overwhelming. Consulting with a seasoned personal injury lawyer ensures your rights are protected, and your case is handled efficiently. The legal team at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari is experienced in negotiating with insurance companies and, when needed, advocating for you in court.
Understanding Your Rights After a New Jersey Car Accident
Car accidents in New Jersey happen for various reasons, from distracted driving to adverse weather conditions. Knowing the causes of these accidents and understanding the legal steps to file a personal injury claim can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, taking prompt action and consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Contact Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari for Your New Jersey Personal Injury Case
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek the legal help you deserve. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari have a proven track record of success in handling complex injury claims across New Jersey, including areas like Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton. Our team is dedicated to securing maximum compensation for accident victims. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you on the road to recovery.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.