The aftermath of a serious auto accident is overwhelming, but at least you can count on your injury claim to help with associated hardships. Right?
In theory and often in practice, the above is accurate. However, any number of issues could influence your settlement. Consider the following statistics about personal injury claims in New Jersey to learn more.
Prevalence of personal injury cases
In 2023, New Jersey ranked third nationwide for personal injury cases per capita, with 30.34 cases per 100,000 residents. They account for about 30% of the state’s civil caseload, significantly higher than the national average.
Common types of claims
As you might expect, auto accidents dominate state personal injury claims. The second leading claim involves medical malpractice, with premises and product liability cases coming in at third and fourth.
Settlement values
Personal injury settlements in the state vary, depending on injury severity and individual circumstances. For example, auto accident settlements can reach several hundred thousand dollars with severe injuries, while medical malpractice cases can exceed $1 million.
Comparative negligence rule
Your compensation can be reduced or denied if you played a role in causing your injury. Under state modified comparative negligence rules, you cannot recover compensation if you were 50% or more at fault for the incident.
Understanding these statistics can offer critical guidance with your claim, helping you avoid mistakes and follow the law. Someone with a legal background can offer additional help in pressing for the injury damages you truly deserve.