Car accidents can have devastating consequences, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. Navigating the aftermath of a car accident requires not only immediate medical attention but also understanding your legal rights. The Epstein Law Firm, based in Rochelle Park, NJ, has extensive experience in personal injury law, specifically handling car accident cases. With a dedicated team, they provide comprehensive legal support to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. Their commitment to aggressive representation and personalized client care makes them a trusted choice for those seeking justice after an accident.

Types of Car Accident Cases Handled

At The Epstein Law Firm, we specialize in a wide range of car accident cases to ensure that every victim receives the justice they deserve. Our expertise includes:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often due to tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops. These accidents can result in whiplash, spinal injuries, and other serious conditions. Our team diligently works to prove fault and secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions, which involve two vehicles colliding front-to-front, are among the most severe types of accidents. They frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, often due to drivers swerving into oncoming traffic or driving the wrong way. Our firm provides comprehensive legal support to families affected by these devastating events, ensuring they receive the compensation needed to cover medical bills, rehabilitation, and emotional distress.

Side-Impact Crashes

Also known as T-bone accidents, side-impact crashes happen when the side of one vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle, typically at intersections. These accidents can cause significant injuries to occupants, including fractures, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. The Epstein Law Firm’s attorneys gather evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to build strong cases for our clients.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Multi-vehicle accidents, involving three or more cars, can be highly complex with extensive damage and multiple injuries. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation and legal expertise. Our firm excels in navigating these complexities, identifying responsible parties, and pursuing compensation from multiple insurance policies to cover medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.

Accidents Involving Drunk Driving

Accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol are particularly egregious, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The Epstein Law Firm aggressively pursues justice for victims of drunk driving accidents, holding the responsible parties accountable and seeking maximum compensation for medical costs, lost income, and punitive damages.

Distracted Driving Accidents

With the increasing use of smartphones and other distractions, accidents caused by distracted driving are on the rise. These accidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Our firm represents victims who have been injured by drivers not paying attention to the road, ensuring they receive compensation for their injuries, rehabilitation, and other associated costs.

Speeding-Related Accidents

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to road conditions and increases the severity of accidents. Speeding-related accidents can lead to significant injuries or death. The Epstein Law Firm handles cases where excessive speed has resulted in serious harm, working to prove negligence and secure compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages.

Each type of car accident requires a specific legal approach to ensure that victims are adequately compensated for their injuries and losses. The Epstein Law Firm’s extensive experience in handling these cases allows us to provide effective representation tailored to the unique circumstances of each accident.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Knowing what steps to take immediately after a car accident is crucial for your safety and legal protection. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do:

Ensure Safety and Call for Help

Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional.

Document the Scene

Gather evidence by taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Document road conditions, weather, and any other relevant details. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s).

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial not only for your health but also for documenting injuries that might be related to the accident.

Report the Accident

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate information about the incident, but avoid admitting fault. An official police report can also be helpful in filing your claim.

Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney

Before discussing the accident with insurance adjusters, consult with a personal injury attorney at The Epstein Law Firm. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation.

By following these steps, you can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. The Epstein Law Firm is here to support you every step of the way, from immediate post-accident actions to comprehensive legal representation.

Compensation and Legal Claims

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with financial losses and injuries. Understanding your potential compensation and the legal claims process is crucial.

Types of Compensation

  • Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  • Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work during recovery.
  • Pain and Suffering: Monetary value assigned to physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Property Damage: Reimbursement for repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
  • Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on your relationship with your spouse or family due to injuries.

Filing a Claim

  • Initial Consultation: Schedule a free consultation with The Epstein Law Firm to discuss your case and potential claims.
  • Investigation: Our team will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case.
  • Insurance Negotiation: We will handle all communications with insurance companies, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement offer.
  • Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced attorneys are prepared to take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.

Proving Liability

  • Evidence Collection: We gather police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimonies to establish fault.
  • Negligence: Demonstrating the other party’s negligence is crucial for a successful claim. This involves proving that they failed to exercise reasonable care, directly causing the accident and your injuries.

Statute of Limitations

  • Time Limits: In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to act promptly to ensure your case is filed within this period.

The Epstein Law Firm’s Role

Expert Representation: With years of experience handling car accident cases, our attorneys provide aggressive and knowledgeable representation.

Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize our clients’ needs, offering personalized legal strategies and dedicated support throughout the claims process.

Successful Track Record: Our firm has a proven history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for car accident victims.

Understanding the types of compensation available and the claims process can empower you to make informed decisions about your case. The Epstein Law Firm is committed to guiding you through each step, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Why Choose The Epstein Law Firm?

When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, selecting the right legal representation is crucial. Here’s why The Epstein Law Firm stands out:

Proven Track Record of Success

The Epstein Law Firm boasts a history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for car accident victims. Our expertise and dedication have led to numerous successful outcomes.

Experienced and Knowledgeable Team

Our attorneys have extensive experience in personal injury law, specifically handling car accident cases. We stay updated on the latest legal developments to provide top-notch representation.

Personalized Client Care

We understand that every case is unique. Our firm offers personalized legal strategies tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each client. We prioritize open communication and ensure that our clients are well-informed throughout the process.

Aggressive Representation

The Epstein Law Firm is committed to fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. We are not afraid to take on insurance companies or go to court if necessary to achieve justice for our clients.

Community Reputation

Based in Rochelle Park, NJ, The Epstein Law Firm is well-respected in the local community. Our reputation for integrity, professionalism, and client advocacy makes us a trusted choice for those seeking legal assistance after a car accident.

Choosing The Epstein Law Firm means entrusting your case to a team that is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you. Our commitment to excellence and client-focused approach ensures that you receive the support and representation you need during a challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims

On average, a motorist will get into a car accident once every ten years. These car accidents can be a minor inconvenience, involving only property damage, or could involve life-altering injuries. Whatever the situation, if you have been in a car accident, you probably have many questions. At The Epstein Law Firm, we are a trusted resource for people across New Jersey who have been injured in all types of motor vehicle accidents. Our history of success in personal injury and wrongful death litigation stands as a testament to our skill and dedication.

The information below contains general answers to some of the questions people have about motor vehicle accidents. To discuss your accident and your injuries, call us at 201-231-7847 to set up a free initial consultation.

What should I do if I was in a car accident?

What should I do after an accident?

Immediately following an accident, you or someone in your vehicle should call the police. The police will prepare and file an accident report. This report could contain valuable information about your accident. If you are able to do so, you should take pictures of your car, the other driver’s car and the accident scene with your phone. You should exchange insurance information with the other driver, but should not discuss the accident any further. Any statements you make at this time could be used against you.

You should also seek medical attention. For serious injuries an ambulance will arrive at the accident scene. Even if you don’t believe you need immediate medical attention, you should have a doctor look at you to see if you sustained any injuries. The reason for this is that if you wait too long to seek medical attention, the insurance company may claim that the accident was not the cause of your injuries. After getting medical treatment, you should then contact a lawyer.

What are punitive damages? Are they available in my car accident case?

A third category of damages, punitive damages, may be available if the party who caused your accident acted intentionally or in a way that was especially shocking. Punitive damages are designed solely to punish the person who caused your accident. For example, if you were injured in an accident caused by a defective product in the vehicle, and the manufacturer knew about the defect (and profited from it), we may have a strong argument to support punitive damages. Punitive damages are also often awarded in drunk driving accident cases.

I have a settlement offer from the insurance company on the table. Should I accept it?

You should always speak with an experienced car accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. Once you accept, you cannot go back and try to get additional compensation even if you have additional expense. Remember, insurance companies are also much more likely to offer a fair settlement if they know you have legal representation to explain your rights. The insurance company–even your own–is always motivated to settle for the lowest possible amount.

What is “no-fault” insurance?

No-fault insurance is also known as Personal Injury Protection, or PIP. With PIP, you do not have to prove that the other driver is at fault for the accident. This coverage is required in New Jersey, although drivers can select between a standard policy and a basic policy. The standard policy provides additional PIP coverage, as well as additional coverage for bodily liability.

Another factor in your car insurance policy is your right to sue the other driver. If you select a “limited right to sue” in your policy, you will save some money. However, if you are in an accident and the other driver is at fault, you will not be able to sue them for your pain and suffering unless you sustain a permanent injury. Under New Jersey law, a permanent injury can include the loss of a limb or other body part, a displaced fracture, significant disfigurement or scarring. You can also bring a claim if you lose a fetus or if a loved one is killed in the accident.

What if the other driver claims that I am at fault for the accident?

New Jersey follows the “modified comparative fault” rule. This means that a jury will have to find that the other driver was more than 50% at fault for the accident in order for you to recover any damages. Once your case hits this threshold, your recovery can be reduced by your percentage of fault. Therefore, if you sustained $100,000 in damages but the jury found that you were 10% at fault for the accident, your recovery would be reduced by $10,000 and you would recover $90,000.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?

New Jersey’s statute of limitations on personal injury and wrongful death claims is two years. Therefore, you have two years from the day of the accident to bring a wrongful death claim. As a practical matter, however, you want to speak to an attorney well before two years. In a car accident, particularly one involving serious injuries, your lawyer will want to look at the accident scene and the vehicles. Generally speaking, the longer you wait to file a case, the more difficult it will be to prepare the strongest claim for damages.

Testimonials

A friend of a friend referred me to this firm. I was blown away by the amount of professionalism, courtesy and care. I highly recommend this firm to anyone seeking a personal injury attorney.

David L.

Thank you so much for everything. Thank you for always responding so promptly and for really going to bat for me. I believe that your heart is big for your clients on many levels.

G. C.