Bloomfield car accident settlements vary based on the severity of injuries and the extent of property damage. Final compensation often reflects the injured party’s insurance coverage and the strength of the evidence proving negligence. Due to the complexities of no-fault insurance and comparative negligence, individuals involved in these cases could benefit from speaking with a knowledgeable car accident attorney.
Filing a Claim
Under the state’s no-fault insurance system, motorists must file a claim with their own insurer, regardless of fault. The insurance policy typically covers medical expenses and lost wages up to the stated limits. Those who select the limited right to sue option may only pursue legal action against the at-fault driver if their injuries in a Bloomfield car accident meet the statutory threshold for severity. With the unlimited right to sue option, injured parties could seek compensation regardless of how severe the injuries are.
The state also follows a comparative fault model, which allows injured parties to recover compensation even when partially at fault, although the award is reduced by their percentage of responsibility.
Receiving a Settlement
Car accidents in Bloomfield often result in financial strain, emotional stress, and physical hardship for those involved and their families. While a car accident settlement may alleviate some of that burden, several factors influence the potential compensation. Damages could include both economic losses, such as medical expenses and lost income, and non-economic losses, including pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life.
Medical Costs
Medical expenses may include ambulance rides, X-rays, MRIs, and diagnostic tests. They can continue after hospital discharge, such as office visits, physical therapy, and medications. Severe injuries may require years of ongoing treatment and in-home care. Medical settlements should consider past and future medical expenses, home modifications, and ongoing therapy.
Lost Income
In Bloomfield, lost income in car accident settlements may account for both current and future earnings. Individuals recovering from injuries are often unable to work, and settlements should reflect not only recent wage loss but also future income limitations caused by long-term or permanent impairment. If the injury prevents a return to previous employment, compensation could also cover the cost of job retraining.
Determining a settlement amount for lost wages involves reviewing tax returns and payroll records. Seasoned attorneys will consult medical experts to substantiate impairments and financial planners to project future monetary requirements.
Noneconomic Damages
Non-economic damages cover the emotional and physical toll of a car accident. Settlements often include compensation for ongoing physical pain and emotional distress. It may provide financial compensation that recognizes the ongoing impact of an injury on a person’s life.
Proving Negligence
Individuals in Bloomfield have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, establish negligence, and pursue compensation. They must show that the at-fault driver failed to uphold a duty of care, which includes following traffic laws and operating a vehicle safely. A violation of traffic law constitutes a breach of that duty. To succeed in a claim, the injured party must demonstrate that the breach directly caused the accident and resulting harm.
Contact a Bloomfield Car Accident Lawyer to Discuss Potential Settlements
Comparative negligence and no-fault insurance laws complicate the process of filing a claim and seeking compensation. Experienced attorneys could help individuals navigate the system by meeting deadlines, gathering evidence, and securing witness statements to support Bloomfield car accident settlements.
The legal teams at Fredson, Statmore & Bitterman, LLC, provide the personal care clients need to focus on healing. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
