A car accident can leave you shocked and overwhelmed, perhaps especially at the prospect of handling the legal documents and processes. It is necessary but can be more manageable with the assistance of a lawyer who is experienced in handling auto accidents.
Call a Lawyer As Soon As Possible After a Car Accident
If you have been involved in an automobile collision, you may be confused as to what you must do. Whether you feel that you are at fault or not, here are a few important steps you must take.
- Remain calm and check for injuries
- Call the police and seek medical attention
- Get the contact and insurance information of all parties involved
- Photograph the scene. Don’t post on social media!
- Obtain a copy of the police report
- Call your insurance company
- Gather evidence that may support your case
- Contact a lawyer
To ensure that you get the legal guidance that you need, contact reputable lawyers serving your area as soon as possible. They can guide you through whatever legal procedures that come after the initial step and make sure everything goes smoothly.
New Jersey has a statute of limitations for car crashes. In other words, there is a 2-year time limit from the day that the accident occurred for you to file a claim. You may lose your right to sue the other party if too much time has already passed.
Contact a lawyer who can streamline the procedure and approach the legal issue in an efficient and time-saving way. A local lawyer who knows the laws of your case’s jurisdiction will be best in this way.
Should You Hire an Auto Accident Lawyer?
Having an auto accident lawyer defending your rights and fighting your case is essential – especially if you want to make sure you are getting the full extent of compensation possible and not being falsely accused.
When an auto accident occurs, people are often quick to blame the other party. Lawyers can collect essential evidence and contact the right people so that you do not have to carry the blame for something you did not do. That’s why we are here. You do not have to go through a lengthy and confusing process alone – instead, have a lawyer by your side.
New Jersey is a modified comparative fault state. This means that if you are found to be more than 50 percent responsible for the accident, then you may receive no compensation at all. However, if you are less than 50 percent responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages for a percentage of the total. Retaining a lawyer will be beneficial when dealing with pushback from the other party.
How to Choose Your Lawyer
When seeking a lawyer, it is important to see what options you have. With personal injury lawyers, you can usually contact them risk-free. Many are only paid if they take on your case and you win.
With many people in the law field, how can you choose the right lawyer for you? Consider the following resources that can help you make an excellent choice.
Word of mouth and referrals
People who are satisfied with the care of a lawyer after previous car accidents would most likely be happy to share with you the name of the firm that helped them win their cases. You can see if friends or family know of any lawyers they recommend. Ask around to see who in New Jersey offers the law services that best suit your needs.
You can also view online testimonials for many law firms and see what clients have said about their experiences. For example, please see what our clients are saying about Judd Shaw Injury Law on our testimonials page.
Online resources
You can find reputable law offices near you by doing a search online. You can also find websites that rank attorneys. Compile a list, but make sure that you contact the firms directly to ask your questions before you commit.
Local and state bar associations
Once a lawyer can practice law, he or she may be enrolled in a bar association. Bar associations have a list of lawyers that can refer you to attorneys in your area. They can provide you with an objective list of lawyers who could help you in your case’s jurisdiction.
Qualities of a Good Lawyer
How can you recognize a good lawyer when you meet or speak with one? Take the following qualifications into account.
He or she is a good communicator
When handling auto accident cases, hiring a lawyer with communication skills is vital. He or she must not only discuss with you the options available but also be able to explain legal matters in a way that you can understand. Negotiating with insurance adjusters is also necessary.
He or she has legal experience
Even with legal training and schooling, nothing beats actual experience lawyers can cultivate by going to court. Lawyers need sufficient experience to give timely and efficient counsel that can help you win your case.
Prioritizes you
Insurance adjusters are not looking to help you but are most likely trying to reach a quick and easy settlement on behalf of the company. A good lawyer, on the other hand, is willing to go the extra mile and treat you with compassion. Since each case is different, you want a lawyer who will listen and is committed to reaching the best possible results in your particular case.
Judd Shaw Injury Law is willing to discuss your needs with you from the comfort of your home or in another location convenient to you. We are also willing to help you in virtual meetings if you are unable to come to our office or are still recovering from your injury.
He or she is accessible and prompt
When you are overloaded with the complications that often come after an accident, you want lawyers who are available to answer your questions and help you right when you need them. They are action-takers who will make sure to resolve and investigate issues so that you can put the case behind you as soon as possible and just focus on recovery.
He or she makes you feel comfortable
Since you will be talking with a lawyer who will be working out problems that you personally face after the accident, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable around him or her. Make sure that you talk to an attorney who you feel you can be at ease and share information with.
Choose Judd Shaw Injury Law to Represent You
If you are involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to find a lawyer to help you. Attorneys can save you precious time and needless stress by taking on the complicated legal process for you since you will have their entire legal team as your resource.
Judd Shaw Injury Law has the skills and experience needed to provide you with exceptional legal services. We treat our clients with compassion and respect. What’s more, we abide by the Judd Shaw Way, promising you the highest level of service.
Contact us at 1-866-909-6894 or complete our online form to get a free case review. We’re available 24/7. With our No Fee Guarantee®, you only pay us if and when you get money for your claim.