Who may be responsible for a school bus accident?
If you or your child has been injured in a school bus accident, you're most likely wondering who is liable. Read on for more…
Middlesex County Personal Injury Attorney
Accidents happen. When they do, the victims of these accidents can feel overwhelmed as they try to grapple with their injuries and deal with the difficult road ahead. If you have been the victim of an accident that was caused by the negligence of another party, it is important to consider your legal options. In New Jersey, it is essential that accident victims consult with an experienced personal injury attorney that can guide them through this difficult time and help them hold the party at fault accountable for their actions. The attorneys at Stathis & Leonardis have proudly represented clients throughout Middlesex County, New Jersey when they need it most. We are prepared to fight on behalf of our clients to help them obtain maximum compensation for their injuries. If you need strong legal representation when it matters most, contact Stathis & Leonardis to schedule a consultation today.
Our Legal Services
When an individual is involved in a serious accident that was caused by the negligence of another party, they may face significant burdens for years to come. Not only will the accident victim have to overcome their physical injuries, they may also have to face serious emotional and financial burdens as well. An experienced personal injury attorney can help recover compensation for victims of negligence. Some of the personal injury matters that the dedicated attorneys at Stathis & Leonardis have experience handling include, but are not limited to the following:
Why is it important to retain a personal injury attorney?
Accident victims have a lot to worry about as is. When it comes time to think about their legal options, it is important to retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, search for evidence, and hold the negligent party accountable while seeking maximum compensation. Additionally, an experienced attorney can help ensure that the victim files their claim within the statute of limitations. If the injury occurred at the fault of a municipality, the attorney can ensure that the Notice of Claim is filed in time and they can deal with the added complexities of the case.
What evidence is important for winning a personal injury case?
Winning a personal injury case hinges on the ability to prove that another party’s negligence directly caused your injuries. To establish this, gathering robust and credible evidence is paramount. The following types of evidence are often crucial in personal injury cases:
- Medical Records and Bills: Detailed documentation of your injuries, treatments, and related medical expenses. These records provide a clear link between the accident and your injuries, showcasing the extent and impact of the harm suffered.
- Accident Reports: Official reports from law enforcement or workplace supervisors that provide an objective account of the incident. These reports often include vital information such as the involved parties’ details, witness statements, and initial assessments of fault.
- Witness Testimonies: Statements from individuals who witnessed the accident can corroborate your version of events and strengthen your case. Witnesses can offer unbiased perspectives on how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
- Photographic and Video Evidence: Visual evidence from the scene of the accident, including photographs and videos, can be compelling. This might include footage from security cameras, dash cams, or bystanders’ recordings, as well as photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and property damage.
- Expert Witnesses: Testimony from experts in relevant fields such as accident reconstruction, medical specialists, or vocational experts can provide professional insights that support your claim. Their analysis can clarify complex aspects of the case, such as the mechanics of the accident or the long-term impact of your injuries.
- Personal Documentation: Journals or diaries where you have recorded the impact of your injuries on your daily life. This can help illustrate the physical, emotional, and psychological toll the accident has taken on you.
- Employment Records: Documentation of lost wages and any impact on your ability to work. This includes pay stubs, tax returns, and employer statements that highlight how your injuries have affected your income and employment status.
Collecting and preserving this evidence promptly and efficiently is critical. An experienced personal injury attorney can assist in gathering this evidence, ensuring nothing is overlooked, and presenting it effectively to build a strong case on your behalf.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that accident victims have a two-year window to initiate legal proceedings against the party responsible for their injuries. If you fail to file your claim within this period, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries, regardless of their severity.
However, there are some exceptions and special circumstances that may alter this timeframe:
- Discovery Rule: In cases where the injury is not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations may begin from the date when the injury was discovered, or reasonably should have been discovered, rather than the date of the accident.
- Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended. Typically, the two-year period does not start until the minor turns 18, giving them until their 20th birthday to file a claim.
- Claims Against Government Entities: Special rules apply when filing claims against a government entity. In New Jersey, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Failing to do so can bar you from pursuing further legal action. After the notice is filed, you generally must wait six months before filing a lawsuit, although there are some exceptions.
- Mental Incapacity: If the victim is mentally incapacitated at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) until they regain capacity.
Given these nuances, it is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident. They can help ensure that all procedural deadlines are met and that your claim is filed correctly and timely, protecting your right to seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Middlesex County
If you have been injured in an accident because of another person’s negligence, contact the attorneys at Stathis & Leonardis. Our legal team is comprised of experienced, dedicated attorneys who are prepared to fight on your behalf. We serve clients across New Jersey, including our neighbors in East Brunswick, Edison, New Brunswick, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Piscataway, South Brunswick, Woodbridge, and the surrounding counties of Mercer County, Monmouth County, Somerset County, and Union County. To schedule a consultation with the attorneys at Stathis & Leonardis, contact our firm today.
