Car Accident Lawyers in Ocean County

The Most Dangerous Roads in Ocean County

Ocean County is known for its beautiful scenery, but unfortunately, it also has some of the most dangerous roads in New Jersey. These treacherous roads contribute to a significant number of car accidents each year. It’s crucial for drivers to be aware of these hazardous areas:

• Route 9: This heavily trafficked road poses risks due to high speeds and congestion.
• Route 37: Known for frequent accidents, especially during rush hours.
• Garden State Parkway: With its fast-moving traffic and multiple exits, this highway can be challenging to navigate safely.
• Route 70: Accidents often occur on this road due to aggressive driving behaviors and heavy traffic flow.

The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents

In any car accident case, determining the cause is essential. Understanding the common causes can help prevent future accidents and establish liability when seeking legal action:

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents today. Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking while operating a vehicle divert attention from the road and significantly increase the risk of an accident. It’s important always to stay focused behind the wheel.

Drunk Driving: Driving under influence (DUI) remains a serious problem across the nation. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it extremely dangerous to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, contact law enforcement immediately.

Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a common cause of accidents on Ocean County roads. High speeds reduce driver reaction time and increase stopping distance, leading to more severe collisions and injuries.

Why Hiring an Auto Accident Lawyer is Important

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ocean County, hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome for your case. Here’s why:

• Legal Expertise: An auto accident lawyer specializes in personal injury cases and understands complex laws that apply to car accidents. They have the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate through legal processes effectively.
• Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than their actual value. A skilled attorney knows how to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries sustained.
• Evidence Gathering: Building a strong case requires collecting evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions. An attorney will gather all relevant evidence needed to support your claim.
• Litigation Support: If settlement negotiations fail or if going to trial becomes necessary, having an attorney by your side provides valuable litigation support. They will represent your interests diligently throughout the entire legal process.

New Jersey Car Insurance Requirements

In New Jersey, drivers are required by law to carry specific minimum amounts of car insurance coverage. These requirements ensure that victims of car accidents can seek compensation for their injuries and damages. The mandatory coverage includes:

• Liability Insurance: Drivers must carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): PIP coverage is also mandatory in New Jersey and provides benefits to pay medical expenses resulting from a car accident regardless of fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This optional but highly recommended coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient insurance or no insurance at all.

Why Choose Gencarelli & Rimassa Law Firm?

Gencarelli & Rimassa Law Firm stands out among other law firms due to our exceptional skills and dedication to providing top-notch legal representation. Here’s why we are the best choice for your car accident case:

• We have extensive experience handling various types of personal injury cases, including car accidents in Ocean County.
• We understand the emotional and financial toll that a car accident can take on your life. Our team is committed to fighting vigorously on your behalf to secure maximum compensation.
• We offer personalized attention to every client. We will listen carefully to your concerns and develop tailored strategies based on your unique circumstances.
• We have a track record of successful settlements and verdicts throughout New Jersey. Our reputation speaks volumes about our ability to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.
• We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any fees unless we win your case. Our priority is to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially without adding additional financial burden.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident?

A: After an accident:

• Ensure your safety and the safety of others involved by moving vehicles out of the traffic if possible.
• Contact law enforcement to report the accident and seek medical attention for anyone injured.
• Gather relevant information such as driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and contact information from all parties involved.
• Take photographs of the accident scene, property damage, injuries sustained, and any other evidence that might be helpful later on.

Q: How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New Jersey?

A: In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to consult with an auto accident lawyer as soon as possible following an incident to ensure compliance with all necessary deadlines.

Q: Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the car accident?

A: Yes. New Jersey follows comparative negligence laws. Even if you are partially at fault for an accident,

you may still be able to recover compensation; however, the amount awarded will be reduced based on your percentage of fault determined by the court or insurance company. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney who can protect your rights and maximize your potential recovery.