Sometimes the main cause of a car accident is dangerous road conditions. You may think that there is no one to blame for a random road hazard, but sometimes there is someone to blame for the hazard that contributed to your accident. Our New Jersey auto accident lawyers can help you figure out who should be held accountable.
What Should I Do After an Accident with a Road Hazard?
After an accident involving a road hazard, you should:
- Take pictures of the damage to the vehicle
- Take pictures of the scene, including the hazard
- Call the police to the scene
- Get the medical care you need
- Talk to a personal injury lawyer
Who Can Be Sued After an Accident With a Road Hazard?
Whoever created the road hazard can be sued after an accident and so can other drivers. If the local government was supposed to be maintaining the road and keeping it safe, they can create a hazardous situation by neglecting this duty. If a construction truck carrying supplies drops its cargo all over the road, they are making the road more dangerous for everybody. If another driver does not see a road hazard because they are driving too fast or not paying attention to the road, they could contribute to an accident and be partially blamed if a collision occurs.
Your attorney can help you figure out who is to blame for your accident and injuries. Then they can help you sue for compensation covering the costs of your accident, including:
- Medical care
- Lost wages
- Loss of enjoyment
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain from disability or disfigurement
How Long Do I Have to Pursue Legal Action?
Usually, you have two years to begin pursuing a personal injury case in New Jersey. This applies if you are suing another person or private company though. In many cases involving road hazards, the defendant could be a government entity. If you plan to sue a county, municipality, or similar target, you need to submit a notice of claim within 90 days. So it is in your best interest to move quickly when you decide to file a personal injury suit.
Should I Hire a Car Accident Attorney?
You are not required to hire an attorney when you move forward with a personal injury case. However, you should know what a lawyer can do for you before you decide to go it alone. A car accident attorney from our firm can:
- Gather evidence
- Handle all communications for you
- Prepare you for testimony or depositions
- Defend you from accusations of wrongdoing
- Answer your questions and guide you through the legal process
- Preparing a case that can win in court, if necessary
Your lawyer will advocate for you and help you fight for the best possible outcome.
Call Our Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident involving a road hazard, do not delay. Contact the attorneys at Rubenstein, Berliner & Shinrod, LLC. We can tell you more about your legal options and the potential value of your case at an initial consultation.
