Hazlet Rear-End Collision Lawyers
Rear-end collisions happen more often in New Jersey than most people realize, making up about 23.7% of all car accidents. Even what looks like a minor fender-bender can lead to months of pain, surprise medical bills, and battles with insurance companies. But if you understand your rights, the steps to take after a collision, and how an attorney can help, you give yourself the best chance to move forward.
What Injuries Commonly Result from Rear-End Collisions?
The sudden jolt of a rear impact can throw your head and neck beyond their normal range of motion, causing personal injury such as whiplash, neck sprains, or spinal disc herniations. Passengers may suffer chest trauma from the seat belt, and drivers can experience concussions if their head snaps against the steering wheel or windshield. Even low-speed impacts can lead to lingering headaches, tingling in the arms, or shooting back pain that develops hours or days later after the collision.
How Should You Respond Immediately after a Rear-End Collision?
First, check everyone for injuries and call 911 for medical attention if needed. Get yourself and others around you to safety, and exchange information with the other driver—name, insurance policy, and vehicle details. Photograph damage to both cars, nearby skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions. Note the time, weather, and any visible injuries.
Furthermore, document everything from the moment the accident happens through to your complete recovery. Keep a daily pain journal describing how your injuries affect work, sleep, and daily activities. Save all medical bills, prescription receipts, and records of missed workdays. If your physician refers you to specialists or physical therapy, go promptly and consistently.
What Does New Jersey’s No-Fault System Mean for My Claim?
New Jersey drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage that pays for their medical bills, lost wages, and certain rehabilitation costs regardless of who caused the accident. PIP claims eliminate the need for early legal fights over fault, so you can focus on treatment, but if your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold—such as disfigurement, bone fracture, significant scarring, or permanent injury—you can step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit for additional damages such as pain and suffering.
Why Is the Rear Driver Almost Always Considered at Fault?
Under New Jersey law, drivers must maintain a safe following distance that is “reasonable and prudent” for speed and conditions. When a rear-end collision happens, the law presumes that the trailing driver was not watching or failed to stop in time. However, if the lead driver brake-checked the rear driver, reversed suddenly, or had faulty taillights, the law could hold the front driver responsible instead.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rear-End Collision Lawsuit?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date, and failing to file within that window almost always means giving up your right to sue. Start a claim early to ensure that you preserve all the evidence, keep witnesses’ memories fresh, and retain your right to legal recourse.
How Much Compensation Can I Expect after a Rear-End Collision?
Every case is unique, but recoverable damages can include past and future medical bills, physical therapy costs, ambulance fees, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and non-economic damages such as pain and emotional distress. In serious cases, your potential compensation can reach six or seven figures. Your final settlement depends on injury severity, treatment duration, policy limits, and your attorney’s negotiation skills.
What Happens if Insurance Offers a Quick Settlement?
Insurance companies sometimes make early, low-ball offers, hoping you accept before noticing the full extent of your injuries. Accepting prematurely usually waives your right to pursue more later. Unless you are absolutely certain that you understand the full extent of your injuries, seek the advice of a seasoned lawyer who can review all your letters and offers, calculate your future treatment needs, and push back on numbers that do not cover your losses fully.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid after a Rear-End Collision?
Never admit fault at the scene, even if you think you might have contributed to the accident; let investigators determine what happened. Do not give recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first; also, avoid posting about the accident on social media, where insurance adjusters may find photos or comments that contradict your injury claims. Finally, seek medical treatment as soon as possible and make sure to attend your follow-up appointments; any gaps in your care can weaken your case significantly.
What Do I Need to Start My Claim Today?
Gather your accident report, medical records, and any photos or videos from the collision. Make a list of all your medical visits, treatments, and out-of-pocket expenses. Then, if you believe that you have a case, reach out promptly to a personal injury lawyer.
How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer After a Rear-End Accident in Hazlet?
Look for experience in rear-end collision cases, a history of trial victories, and client reviews praising communication. Your attorney should be able to clearly explain medical liens, handle negotiations, and give you time to make the important decisions that you need to make.
Get Support From the Hazlet Rear-End Collision Lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC
If you have been in a rear-end crash, allow the Hazlet rear-end collision lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC to handle the legal fight so you can focus on your health. From our Hazlet and Highland Park, New Jersey, offices, we proudly represent clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Call us at 732-705-3363 today or fill out our online form for your free consultation.