After an automobile accident, you may be too emotional or distraught to make good decisions. While you can settle an accident claim on your own, you should consult with an attorney who specializes in injury claims. He or she can ensure that you get the compensation you deserve if the other party is to blame for the accident.
Types of Compensation
If you’re the victim of someone else’s careless driving, then you can seek compensation for any damages you received. These damages may include repairing or replacing your vehicle, medical expenses if you were injured, any time off work you had to take to recover, and pain and suffering. An attorney specializing in automobile accidents in Phillipsburg, NJ can help you seek compensation for damages by negotiating with attorneys or, if necessary, by taking the responsible party to court.
Amounts for Damages
There are some limitations to what can be claimed when seeking compensation for injuries. For punitive damages, which includes pain and suffering, there is a cap of five times the amount of compensatory damages or $350,000, whichever is higher. However, to seek damages in personal injury cases, which includes automobile accidents, in New Jersey, the injured party must file his or her lawsuit within two years of the date of injury.
No-Fault State
New Jersey is a “no-fault” state, which means that most injury claims must be filed against your own insurance policy after Phillipsburg automobile accidents. However, if your medical bills exceed the amount covered by your auto insurance, then your attorney can file suit against the negligent driver. This will allow you to recover the additional amount needed to cover your medical bills and possible punitive damages.
Before discussing your accident with the negligent party’s attorney, you need to hire someone to represent you. A lawyer who specializes in automobile accidents can help protect your financial interests.
