If you get hurt in a car accident, you want to be certain that the at-fault party will pay for your damages. Along with damage to your property, you might need compensation to take care of your treatment costs as well as any other losses resulting from the accident.
The problem, however, is the process of filing personal injury claims does not always go as planned. As a result, frustration sets in and most victims make the following mistakes that eventually ruin their claims.
- Failing to report the accident to the police
New Jersey law requires you to file a police report whenever you are involved in a car accident that results in injury, death or more than $500 worth of property damage. Sometimes, the other party may discourage you from reporting the accident because they want to settle the matter with you themselves. But this can be a huge mistake. Failure to formally report the crash will make your case more difficult to prove should you end up in court.
- Taking too long to file your lawsuit
Every state has a time limit within which you must file a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. In New Jersey, you have two years effective from the date of the car crash to file a personal injury claim and six years to file a claim for property damage. You risk getting your case thrown out if you file your claim after the expiration of the statute of limitations.
- Failing to gather the right evidence
Evidence plays a crucial role in any legal process. When filing an auto accident lawsuit, it is important that you strengthen your case by presenting the most relevant evidence to your case. Witness statements, a copy of the police report, medical report and photographic evidence of the accident scene are all important pieces of evidence when filing a claim for damages.
When you are hurt in a car accident as a result of another driver’s fault, you may be eligible for compensation for your injury and property damage. Avoiding the common mistakes people make while filing personal injury lawsuits in New Jersey can ensure that you file a successful claim and get the compensation you deserve for your injury and property damage.
