A car accident in New Jersey is a terrible experience, but if you don't report the accident properly, things could get worse. Creating documentation to support your accident case is vital. This includes proving the accident actually happened, how it happened, and who was involved. For the insurance company to evaluate a claim correctly, this information is necessary.

Because New Jersey is a no-fault state, your own insurance company is responsible for paying for any injuries you sustain in an accident covered by your PIP policy (personal injury insurance). However, if you suffer a serious injury, PIP insurance may not be sufficient, and a third-party claim or lawsuit may be necessary. Gathering all available evidence to support your claim is very important, whether you're thinking about filing a personal injury claim following a car accident or not.

Below are important reasons to document everything following an accident. Retaining a New Jersey car accident attorney with experience is highly recommended. Even if you have questions, consult an attorney first. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has the experience to help you win your case.

1. File a Police Report

If it's a significant accident, call the police first. Obtaining a police report that gives complete, reliable information about an auto accident will greatly affect your car accident or personal injury claim. Witness testimonies that are helpful in claims are also taken by an officer.

In general, an insurance claim will require a police report, so always call the police following a car accident.

2. Exchange Information With The Other Driver

Another important step following a car accident is to exchange your information with the other driver. This includes their name, contact information, driver's license and insurance details.

You will contact your own insurance company to begin a claim, or the other the driver's insurer if the accident wasn't your fault. However, before you contact any insurance company, or before providing any detailed information, consulting a lawyer is beneficial. A lawyer can give you advice, and if you retain their services, will take over all communication with the insurance company.

3. Take Photos or Video

Using your smartphone, take pictures or video of any damage. You should document the damage from all angles, as well as any other relevant imagery, such as the scene of the accident, any hazardous conditions, etc. Also, while snapping photos, get pictures of each vehicle's license plate for your own records. This will help in your case.

4. Documentation Helps Even in Minor Accidents

In the event of minor accidents, the damage must be documented. No matter how minor or unimportant the damage, it might still cost thousands of dollars to repair. You need to take pictures and share information, but you don't need to call the police (in some cases). Later, when taking your car to a mechanic, they might find further damage, which would change your claim. Therefore, you'll need to keep this documentation on hand.

5. Filing a Car Accident Claim

The last step after accurately documenting all damages is filing a claim to recover losses, such as car repair costs and medical expenses. While some wait until they get home, other drivers make calls to their insurance company right away. We suggest you contact a lawyer before making a call to your insurance company. You must have enough paperwork in either situation to inform the claims agent and complete the claims process.

Following a NJ Car Accident, Contact Brandon J. Broderick For Help

In an auto accident, it is usually possible to establish the other driver's guilt by using witness testimony, police reports, electronic evidence, and medical records. This evidence can prove to be strong enough to prove liability against the other driver.

Our top NJ car accident lawyers can review the available evidence and may even add to the case by gathering further evidence. Even when other lawyers declare there is no case and insurance adjusters reject or undervalue your claim, we have decades of expertise fighting for our clients and succeeding.

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we value client service. We are one of the area's top-rated law firms for car accidents, with offices throughout New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.

For a free consultation, get in touch with us today.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident, you may have to deal with expensive medical bills, lost income if you can't work while you heal, and a variety of additional costs from unanticipated injuries. Fortunately, you may have the option to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit for losses associated with the injury, which was the result of someone else's negligence, whether it be in a car accident, or a slip and fall or construction site accident.

If you believe that your recovery, rehabilitation, or care will continue into the future, you may have the option to seek compensation for future losses. "Future losses" are damages typically awarded in cases of severe injury where the victim will require ongoing medical care or treatments, and may be unable to return to their previous job or to any type of employment altogether.

We'll go through what exactly future damages are in a personal injury claim in this blog post. However, as with any legal matter, we urge you to seek advice from an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney, such as Brandon J. Broderick. You are not alone when an unexpected injury derails your life, our team can help you sort it all out and find a solution.

What Are "Future Damages"?

In the civil court system, a plaintiff who can prove that a defendant has wronged them is entitled to damages. Because it deals with the law of contracts and torts, the civil justice system is distinct from the criminal justice system. Depending on the nature and consequences of the defendant's wrongdoing toward the plaintiff, many forms of damages may be available. One example is future damages.

Where there is a plausible expectation that a loss or injury will occur in the future as a result of a defendant's careless or willful act or omission, future damages may be awarded in the context of personal injury cases. When such a plausible expectation is present, there is a solid foundation for future damages.

How To Prove Future Damages

There are concerns that future damages may be excessive, because of the speculative nature of projecting future damages in a personal injury claim. Because of this, expert testimony is usually needed to support a prediction of future damages.

Doctors and therapists are commonly called as expert witnesses in personal injury cases. The duration of your injuries will first be discussed by these medical professionals. Some injuries – particularly those to the head, neck, and spine – may not heal while a broken arm may heal. You may not be able to work again, or at least not in the same capacity as before the accident. If this is the case, your earning capacity has been diminished or taken away altogether. The expert evidence of your doctor and employer allows for the objective measurement of these negative impacts of an accident.

Yet, they are not the only negative effects. You might continue to feel physical pain and suffering from your injuries, as well as continuous mental discomfort, in addition to having a reduced ability to make money. Future damages are meant to cover any legitimate loss or injury that affects you in the future, including all associated costs (medical expenses, lost wages, discomfort physically and mentally, etc.).

Medical Costs

Your medical costs will probably increase with the severity of your injuries, and you could require treatment for a longer period of time, if not permanently. You may require a prolonged hospital stay, numerous surgeries or procedures, rehabilitation, and/or in-home care, for example. All of these medical needs could dramatically increase the total cost of your claim as well as your future medical expenses.

Typical medical costs that could be covered by a claim for future damages include:

• Future rehabilitation expenses
• Future nursing or in-home care
• Future medical treatments
• Home or vehicle modifications required for your long-term illness or handicap
• Costs of domestic services that you can no longer perform

To estimate how much to seek for your future medical expenditures, a skilled New Jersey personal injury attorney will do the necessary research. Prior to determining the entire worth of your claim, it's frequently important to accomplish maximum medical improvement (MMI). To make sure you have enough money to handle your future expenses, you want to be aware of what to expect in the future.

Lost Income

In the unfortunate event that you have permanent injuries and are unable to return to work, your personal injury claim may also include a request for damages for lost wages and diminished future earning capacity. This kind of compensation includes an estimation of your future earnings and benefits you would've received had the accident hadn't happened.

You may have the option to pursue compensation for the difference between your current income and what you could have earned before the accident if you are able to work but not in the same function or capacity. Considerations for calculating potential future earnings include:

• Salary prior to the accident
• Commissions
• Annual bonuses
• Employee benefits

A labor or economic expert may be called in to help your claim to determine your potential future earnings.

Call Brandon J. Broderick Today To Discuss Your Case

Working with an experienced NJ personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. You have no risk in hiring Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law. Our law firm works on contingency, which means we are only paid if we win your case. We pride ourselves on complete client satisfaction. If you aren't happy, neither are we.

For a free consultation, get in touch with our law firm today to discuss your case. Turn your setback into a positive.

When you've been attacked by a dog, many people don't know what to do next or what their options are. You may believe everything will be okay because you have health insurance and your injuries weren't too bad. You and the dog's owner are good friends, and you think a lawsuit could hurt your relationship.

The truth is that the dog owner is responsible for what their pet does and should be held responsible for any injuries that occur as a result of the dog's behavior, such as dog bites.

Consulting with a New Jersey dog bite lawyer can be very beneficial. While it is ultimately your decision whether or not to file a claim, a lawyer – such as Brandon J. Broderick and his law firm – can help you understand your rights and the options you have regarding your case.

Dog Bites & Personal Injury Cases

Dog bites are a type of personal injury, so the laws that apply to them are often the same as those that apply to other types of cases. Even though they are similar in this way, there may be some differences because an animal is involved.

This is why retaining a lawyer is important. An experienced lawyer will help to gather evidence related to the dog bite, including doctor's reports, as well as handle the communication with the dog owner's insurance company.

There may be other elements to a dog bite case that a lawyer can speak to. Even though it is a personal injury case, there may also be elements of premise liability and other things to consider.

Medical Costs Associated With Your Dog Bite Case

A dog bite can result in serious injury, which may lead to expensive medical bills. If you do not have personal health insurance or savings to pay for medical care, it can put a heavy strain on you and your family. Medical bills can quickly reach thousands of dollars, and may include:

• ER visits
• Blood tests
• X-rays
• Ambulance costs
• Physical therapy
• Outpatient services
• Prescription drugs
• Hospital care

Since a dog bite is usually not your fault, you shouldn't be responsible for medical bills related to the attack.

What Are My Rights?

You have the right to file a claim if someone else is responsible for an injury you suffered. Many people believe that they do not have the right to seek compensation due to injuries caused by a dog. They may not realize it is the dog's owner's responsibility, as well as their insurance company.

Your legal options will depend on the facts of your case and how the accident happened. Discussing these things with an NJ dog bite lawyer can give you some answers.

Dog Bite and Premise Liability

If you are bitten by a dog and are seeking compensation for your losses, it's not always as easy as you might think. It's not always as simple as "the dog bit me, so the owner has to pay". As the victim, you will have to prove the bite happened on public property or that you were allowed to be on private property where the attack took place, otherwise known as premise liability.

When you are not allowed to be on private property and a dog attacks you, things are different and you may not have a claim against the dog owner.

Determining whether or not you have a claim can be confusing. Consult with a lawyer to be sure.

Hire a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer For Help

While you will have the right to sue for damages in most cases, there are some situations where you may not.

Consulting with the team at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law will give you some insight into your case. We have handled all types of personal injury cases over the years, including dog bite claims. We have a successful track record and dedicate ourselves to our clients to help them get the justice they deserve.

Call us today to schedule a free consultation with our lawyers, so we can discuss the details of your case.

You need assistance whether you have a single injury that requires medical attention or a condition that worsens over time. If an injury prevents you from working, New Jersey's Workers' Compensation system is in place to help.

An injury can occur in the workplace unexpectedly and in almost any industry, so do workers' comp claims. It may appear that only workers who have physically demanding jobs suffer injuries and collect workers' comp, yet accidents can happen to anyone at any time.

What injuries qualify for workers' comp in New Jersey? We will talk about that below. However, consulting a NJ workers' comp lawyer is recommended, as you may have specific circumstances that do not apply or if you have been denied benefits. A lawyer, such as those at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law can help answer questions for you.

"Work-Related Injury" Defined

If you suffer an injury while working you will likely be entitled to workers' comp benefits.

If you spend your workday shift driving a vehicle, for example, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits in the event of a car accident. If you were involved in an auto accident on the way to or from work, you would not qualify. Repetitive stress injuries might happen if your profession requires you to repeatedly carry out the same actions, resulting in conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. When recovering at home, you can still collect workers' comp benefits.

"Work-related injuries" are those that occur while performing tasks related to your employment duties. According to OSHA, "the establishment and other locations where one or more employees are working or are present as a condition of their employment" constitute the workplace. Both the physical spaces in which an employee performs his or her duties and any tools or supplies that are integral to those tasks are considered part of the workplace.

Common Injuries Sustained in the Workplace

In the workplace, an injury to any portion of the body is possible, no matter what your job is. Workers' comp benefits are there to aid you and your loved ones in the event of an injury that necessitates medical attention.

The injuries that are the most common are, but not limited to:

• Back, neck and spine injuries
• Knee or arm injuries
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Traumatic brain injury
• Mental anguish
• Death

What Does Workers' Compensation Benefits Cover?

Workers' compensation in New Jersey includes medical care to treat your injuries and wage loss benefits.

Your employer, typically through their workers' compensation insurance provider, is liable for covering the costs of any necessary and appropriate medical care if you have a work-related accident or illness. This covers all types of medical care, such as surgery, hospitalization, prescription drugs, equipment, physical or occupational therapy, and doctor visits. Be aware that, with limited exceptions, your employer has the right to select the medical professionals who will diagnose and treat your work injury in New Jersey.

If you are hurt and it prevents you from working for longer than seven days, you may be eligible for wage loss benefits. Subject to a minimum and maximum rate prescribed by law, the amount of these benefits is normally 70% of your average weekly wage. This is available for 400 weeks, or until you are able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.

Need Help With Your Workers' Compensation Claim? 

If you sustain an injury at work, you should report it right away and file a claim. But, if you find yourself in need of assistance, you should contact a New Jersey workers' comp lawyer. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is ready to help you with your NJ workers' compensation case and benefits.

We have helped many clients who were in your shoes. Contact us as soon as you can so that we can discuss the details of your case and the potential solutions.

It may come as a shock to find that the driver of the vehicle you were a passenger in is responsible for paying your medical expenses if you were injured in an auto accident. In no-fault states, including New Jersey, it is a common misconception that the negligent driver must pay the medical bills of everyone involved in an accident. But, in New Jersey, your own insurance covers your medical bills.

In New Jersey, PIP (Personal Injury Protection) insurance is required and is used to cover medical expenses, but does it cover the passenger? This will be discussed further in the following article.

For specific questions or if you are in the midst of recovering from a car accident as a passenger, call the law office of Brandon J. Broderick, he's a NJ car accident lawyer with experience in various types of car accidents. He can help discuss the situation and guide you in your legal claim.

PIP Insurance in New Jersey

In the state of New Jersey, drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. The same is true in the states of New York and Florida, both of which require drivers to carry PIP coverage. Auto owners in these states are mandated by law to carry PIP insurance on their vehicles. Everyone involved in an accident who has PIP coverage will have their own PIP coverage used first to pay for medical expenses. You, the other driver, and any passengers in the car would have to file a claim with their own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance first.

If You Don't Have Car Insurance, What Happens?

With PIP coverage a requirement in New Jersey, anyone with a car insurance policy has PIP coverage. However, if you don't have a car, you can use the auto insurance of a relative you live with instead. If you are injured in an accident and do not have health insurance or live with someone who does, the driver of the vehicle you were riding in may be responsible for paying your medical expenses under their personal injury protection (PIP) policy.

When Medical Costs Exceed Your PIP Benefits, What Happens?

New Jersey only mandates that motorists have PIP coverage of $15,000. In New York, that minimum is significantly higher at $50,000. Although $50,000 seems like a lot, it may not be enough to cover even severe injuries, let alone catastrophic ones. A policy of merely $15,000 would hardly cover anything

If the accident was the result of another driver's negligence and you have already used all your PIP benefits, you may be entitled to make a claim against that driver's liability insurance. This can be used to compensate for medical bills, lost pay, and emotional distress.

If the negligent motorist has property damage liability insurance, you may be compensated for lost or damaged possessions.

What Constitutes Negligent Driving

There are various ways one can be considered negligent behind the wheel. A driver has a responsibility to everyone on the road, including other motorists, their passengers, and pedestrians, to drive safely. The driver may have been negligent, as evidenced by the following, in the moments leading up to the crash:

• Speeding
• Breaking traffic laws, such as speed limits, stop signs, etc.
• Drowsy driving
• Aggressive driving
• Driving while intoxicated
• Distracted driving

It is also possible that both drivers will bear some responsibility for the collision, in which case the insurance company will likely divide liability by a specific percentage.

In a situation like this, discussing your legal options with a NJ car accident lawyer is advised. You may have a complex claim and the help of legal counsel can be valuable to your case.

New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer Brandon J. Broderick Can Help Your Case

Hiring a lawyer who specializes in car accidents is very important to the success of your case. Without representation, an insurance company may take advantage of your inexperience and offer a very small settlement that may not cover your losses.

When you retain Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, he will fight to get the fair compensation you deserve. We are here to protect your rights. Fortunately, our services are available to all. We take cases on a contingency basis, which means we don't get paid unless we win your case.

Contact us together for a free case evaluation.

It happens. When you're just going about your day, taking a stroll along a New Jersey sidewalk, and you take a spill after slipping and falling. Maybe it's a crack in the sidewalk or uneven pavement that causes the fall, but nonetheless, you slip and fall, and you sustain serious injuries. 

When this type of injury happens, who is liable for your injuries? Who else besides you might be responsible?

In this article, we'll answer some of those questions. However, while looking for answers on your own is important, you should always consult with a New Jersey slip and fall lawyer to make sure you're covering all of the bases.

A slip and fall lawsuit is a type of personal injury claim that can be filed if someone sustains injuries due to a trip, slip or fall on another person's property. The claimant must prove that the fall was not his or her fault, but rather the result of the property owner's carelessness or negligence in order to receive compensation.

What Are My Legal Options After a Slip and Fall Injury? Who is Responsible?

There are many elements to consider, including any specific conditions that caused the injury, will determine whether or not a public entity in New Jersey is liable for a slip and fall accident on a sidewalk. In most situations, the public entity would be held liable for the accident if they were aware of the hazard that contributed to the accident but did nothing to fix it. Injuries sustained on private property may result in legal claim against the property owner.

You can sue the city if you fell because the sidewalk was in bad shape and in need of maintenance. You will still need to  prove that the city – in this case, a city in New Jersey – neglected public property and was negligent in causing the injury in order to win a lawsuit against the municipality. For example, if the pavement is cracked, uneven, or eroding, that can be used as proof.

A slip and fall accident lawyer should be consulted if the city fails to reply to a citizen's request for information.

In a case involving a slip and fall, the injured party has the burden of proof. While the city or the owner of the private property will most definitely put together evidence to fight the claim, you can potentially be awarded damages even if you were partially responsible for your injury. You may receive less compensation if you're found to be somewhat at fault, as New Jersey is a comparative negligence state. Judges and juries will determine your percentage of fault.

A person's share of responsibility for the accident cannot exceed that of the person from whom damages are sought under New Jersey's comparative negligence statute. In an accident, an injured victim can recover damages if they are not more than 50% at fault.

Establishing Fault in a Slip and Fall Accident

You might be wondering how to establish responsibility if you or a loved one suffered a slip and fall on a New Jersey sidewalk.

It could be difficult to prove that another person's negligence led to the fall. You must show that the conditions that led to the fall were either intentionally established by the owner, that they were aware of the danger but purposefully chose not to address them, or that they existed for so long that the owner had a reasonable opportunity to address them but did not.

You must prove the following to be successful:

• Duty of care: The liable party was required by law to take reasonable precautions for your safety and welfare.
• Breach of duty: The party must have acted carelessly or in some way that violated the obligation.
• Causation: The party's actions must be what led to the slip and fall incident.
• Damages: In order to bring a slip and fall lawsuit in New Jersey, there must be verifiable, compensable damages.

You must submit a Notice of Claim if you are filing a claim against a municipality, and it must be filed within 90 days of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to file a lawsuit. According to New Jersey law, a Notice of Claim must be submitted before a lawsuit for damages can be filed against a municipality or other governmental entities. You must specify the location and state of the sidewalk, as well as other important information specific to the incident.

Document the specifics of your accident to prove that the property owner was irresponsible, regardless of who is at fault. Photos, videos, names and the contact details of witnesses are essential to your claim. Evidence of negligence is required in New Jersey for a slip and fall case to succeed.

Deadlines For Slip and Fall Claims

Slip and fall victims in New Jersey have a finite amount of time to submit a slip and fall claim. The statute of limitations states that personal injury lawsuits must be filed no later than two years following the accident date. The injured party has until age 20 to bring a claim if, at the time of the accident, he or she was under the age of 18.

There are a few circumstances, such as slipping and falling on public property, that may have further restrictions on how long one has to file a slip and fall lawsuit. Your claim is covered by the New Jersey Tort Claims Act if you fall on public property. This means that you have 90 days from the date of your accident to notify them of it and file a claim.

The statute of limitations could vary, depending on your specific circumstances. Consult with a lawyer to get legal advice for your claim.

Consult The Slip and Fall Lawyers of Brandon J. Broderick To Learn More About Your Legal Options

It's important to speak with an experienced NJ slip and fall lawyer who is informed about the intricacies of the law before bringing forth a lawsuit. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, has both the experience and track record to help you win. This could have a major impact on how your case turns out.

It costs nothing to hire a personal injury attorney in New Jersey like Brandon J. Broderick. Our fees are contingent, which means we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact our offices today for free consultation.

Most people who file a personal injury claim do so because they require financial support after suffering physical or mental harm as a result of an accident. Generally, if a court rules in your favor, you may be entitled to compensation for your economic losses, such as medical expenses, lost income or even property damage.

There are other forms of compensation you may also be able to seek after an accident. However, when punitive damages are brought up, this is a type of damages awarded in extreme circumstances of reckless or intentionally negligent behavior. It is awarded to punish the opposing party and to deter it from happening to anyone else in the future.

If you believe you may be entitled to punitive damages or you've been injured in an accident, contact a New Jersey personal injury lawyer for help.

Brandon J. Broderick has worked with many clients over the years who have been awarded punitive damages in their cases. He has the knowledge and experience to ensure you are awarded fair compensation.

Examples of Injury Cases That Could Qualify for Punitive Damages

In most cases where punitive damages are awarded, the defendant is a corporation or other large organization. A car brand, in a product liability action, might keep producing and selling a vehicle or component that they know is dangerous or faulty. Punitive damages may be awarded if you can show that they acted negligently by continuing to sell the car. For violations of employment discrimination legislation, punitive penalties may be assessed in several states and countries.

Negligent parties can be held liable for punitive damages if they cause another person's injuries. When the families of O.J. Simpson's ex-wife and her friend filed a wrongful death suit against him; he was ordered to pay $25 million in punitive damages. Driving while intoxicated or driving while distracted are two other possibilities. In all scenarios, the negligent party knowingly chose to take actions that put others in danger.

The purpose of awarding punitive damages is to deter someone from taking the same actions against others in the future. If a court awards punitive damages, the defendant is punished by being forced to pay the specified sum of money to the injured party.

What New Jersey Law Say About Punitive Damages

According to N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.9 and the New Jersey Punitive Damages Act, plaintiffs can collect punitive damages of up to 5x the amount of their compensatory damages or $350,000, whichever amount ends up being greater. In circumstances involving public policy or social concerns, however, this limit may not be enforced.

The plaintiff is, however, required to show by "clear and convincing evidence" that the defendant's acts were: reckless, malicious and lacking any regard for the safety of others.

Punitive damages are often more difficult to prove than liability, as the plaintiff must show that the defendant acted willfully or maliciously.

Insurance companies, affluent individuals, or corporations are more likely to be hit with punitive damages since they must be paid by the defendant directly and are not protected by insurance.

Punitive Damage Awards in New Jersey Personal Injury Lawsuits

Unfortunately, punitive damages are not allowed in most personal injury claims under New Jersey law, and are excluded from most cases involving negligence or gross negligence.

In circumstances of wrongful death, punitive damages may be granted only if it can be proven that the defendant acted intentionally or with reckless disregard for the life of another person. A jury has the authority to award punitive damages if they determine that the defendant's conduct justifies it.

In some cases, you may still be able to prove that you are entitled to punitive damages. Accidents caused by intoxicated drivers are one such example, as are those where an employee files a workers' compensation claim and proves that their employer acted intentionally or recklessly in a way that put others at risk, such as by keeping them on the job despite their showing signs of the flu or having the flu-like symptoms known as COVID-19.

In the event of an injury, you and your attorney have the right to seek punitive damages. Nonetheless, it would be beneficial if you had reasonable expectations about your likelihood of acquiring them.

The Law Office of Brandon J. Broderick Can Assist in All Personal Injury Matters

Experienced personal injury attorneys can make a huge difference in the result of your case if you've been hurt due to someone else's negligence or disregard for the safety of others. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, has the experience and team to offer our clients the support they need.

For a free consultation, please contact our offices today. The dedication to our clients and history of success in personal injury settlements mean that we can help you recover from adversity.

Depending on how recently your accident occurred, how seriously anyone was hurt, and whose fault the accident was, you may be feeling a wide range of emotions following a car accident.

You probably experienced varied degrees of these emotions as well. Your worry will probably overpower all of your other feelings in the days after an accident if you or a loved one was hurt. If it's obvious that you caused the accident, feelings of anxiety and worry about what might happen could be consuming you. Or, you can feel resentful and anxious about receiving enough compensation if the accident was not your fault.

Regardless of how you are feeling, your first move after being in an auto accident should be to call a New Jersey car accident lawyer, such as Brandon J. Broderick. He can assist you in putting together a strong case to get your most money.

Below are some of the most important elements of a car accident case to remember to maximize your settlement. However, before you do anything, consult with a lawyer.

Tips For Maximizing Your Car Accident Claim

When you are in a car accident, it's important to keep your emotions at bay and make rational decisions since there could be a lot of money on the line, and as a victim, you are entitled to that compensation.

Tips to remember are as follows:

• Observe the scene and collect as much evidence as you can. In most cases, drivers are compelled to stop and stay at the scene of an accident they were involved in. Make a 911 call and wait for the cops to arrive if no one else has already done so. Gather details about the other drivers, including their drivers license numbers, license plate numbers, insurance information, and any damages to the vehicles involved. To ensure you have the best chances in your case, record all information on video using your phone. Lastly, if at all possible, get witness information.

• Contact a NJ car accident lawyer. This should be your next call you make after 911, even before contacting your insurance company. You will be assisted throughout the full claims process by an experienced attorney.

• See a doctor. Even if your pain or symptoms seem minor, be sure to mention it to the doctor in an official, documented appointment. Seeing a doctor will document all your injuries and ailments, as well as your condition.

• Keep up with all of your doctor and physical therapist appointments. Make the appointments before you leave the office if your doctor or therapist suggests additional visits.

• Complete all therapy sessions and doctor appointments until you reach MMI (maximum medical improvement). If you require more therapy, your doctor will make that determination.

• Allow all advised surgeries. However, don't have surgery just to increase your settlement amount. If you need surgery, your case is automatically worth more.

• Take your medication. If your doctor gives you a prescription for painkillers or another medication, be sure to follow it exactly.

• Work as much as you can. Work as much as you can if you are well enough to do so. Typically, jurors value independence and bravery.

Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, Can Help You After a Car Accident

A car accident lawyer can assist you in seeking the maximum amount of compensation following a New Jersey car accident. Brandon J. Broderick has represented clients in New Jersey and the surrounding states for decades, securing the best possible outcome in settlement or judgment.

Consult with us today! Call and schedule an appointment and we can discuss the specifics of your case and determine where we can help you!

Repetitive strain injuries can be caused by ongoing, tedious activities, stress and/or heavy lifting, and is categorized as a form of "wear and tear" injury. However, you may be wondering if a repetitive strain injury is covered under New Jersey's workers' compensation program.

Workers' compensation benefits are, in fact, available to those who suffer repetitive strain injuries at work, although they may be subject to more stringent requirements than in normal cases. An employee will need to offer solid proof that their injury was caused by their job in order to establish that it was work-related. This is because the injury and cause of a repetitive strain injury are not as obvious as those of other injuries.

It's always best to speak to an experienced New Jersey workers' comp lawyer about the specific circumstances of your injury and whether it qualifies for workers' comp. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, has helped countless people with their workers' comp cases.

Injuries That Develop Over Time

Workers frequently experience injuries as a result of their job tasks over time. Even employees who take safety steps to safeguard themselves at work still run the risk of suffering an illness or injury related to their line of work. By definition, repetitive motion injuries happen when a person does the same movement over and over again. Carpal tunnel syndrome is an example of an injury that develops gradually. This condition occurs when the nerves and tendons in the wrist's carpal tunnel are compressed, resulting in tingling and numbness. None of these injuries could be linked to a specific workplace incident. However, practically all of them are typical injuries that employees develop as a result of the ongoing workplace tasks.

When Should You Report Symptoms or a Workplace Injury?

Typically, you must tell your employer about your injuries within 14 days of the incident, in order to be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. If you have a valid cause for not informing your employer right away of an at-work injury, you may be able to wait up to 90 days. These deadlines may not make sense in the case of injuries that take time to manifest. However, if you inform your employer within 90 days of first realizing your injuries, you can file a claim that will likely be granted.

For instance, even though an injury resulting in hearing damage takes time to manifest, you should notify your employer the moment you see any symptoms, such as ringing in the ears or hearing loss. Next, get medical attention as soon as you can.

Seeking Medical Care

Receiving medical care after a work injury is an important stage in filing for workers' compensation. In order to establish the connection between the injury and your job duties, an immediate medical assessment is especially important in cases of repetitive strain injuries. The most important source of proof for your workers' compensation claim will be the documents that your doctor records.

Based on how the ailment was caused and your job duties, a medical professional can assess your injury and identify the reason. If a patient spends the most of their day typing, for instance, a doctor might diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome as work-related since typing is a prominent cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is an example of a repetitive strain injury.

Deadlines For Filing a Workers' Comp Claim in New Jersey

The process for filing a workers' compensation claim has deadlines. To begin with, you must inform your employer of the injury as soon as you can. In fact, if you wish to be eligible for full compensation, you must tell your employer within 30 days of the job injury. You have up to 90 days, but if you notify your employer after the first 30 days, the benefits you receive may be less. Additionally, it is advised that you inform your employer in writing so that this cannot be contested. It's never recommended to just alert them verbally.

The amount of time you have to file your claim is another deadline in a New Jersey work injury claim. An injured worker must file a formal claim in New Jersey no later than two years following the date of the injury or the final payment of compensation, whichever occurs first. If your condition falls under the category of an "occupational disease," such as hearing loss or a repetitive motion injury, you have two years from the day you first became aware of it to submit a claim.

It's important to speak with a workers' compensation attorney for assistance with your claim if you want to ensure that you obtain the full amount of medical benefits that you are entitled as well as lost income while you are recovering.

The NJ Employment Lawyers Will Aid You In Your Workers' Comp Case

If you're encountering problems with your workers' compensation claim, you might have options. A workers' comp attorney in New Jersey can examine your case, weigh the evidence, and then file an appeal on your behalf.

An accident at work can be unpleasant, especially if it prevents you from returning to your job. Despite the fact that New Jersey laws are intended to provide you with coverage for lost income and medical care, getting workers' compensation is not always straightforward.

Contact Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law as soon as possible to set up an appointment to evaluate your case.

We have helped clients across the state of New Jersey. We have locations in Edison, Newark, Toms River, Paterson, Jersey City and Cherry Hill to name a few.

Construction accidents can have devastating effects on workers and their families. These accidents can lead to serious injuries that have long-term consequences. Hence, you may face high medical costs, lost wages, and disability. 

You’re entitled to compensation if you suffered an NJ construction accident injury. You may receive workers’ compensation benefits by filing a claim. In NJ, the benefits cover medical treatment, wage replacement, and permanent disability. Read on to learn more about some of the common construction injuries in New Jersey.

Broken Bones

Broken bones, also known as fractures, are a common NJ construction accident injury. Some accidents that can cause fractures include the following:

• Falls
• Getting struck by falling objects
• Getting caught in or between objects

Broken bones can range in severity and occur in any bone in the body. You could sustain a small crack in the bone or even a complete break.  

Symptoms of a fracture include intense pain and swelling. You may also have difficulty moving the affected limb. 

Back Injuries

Back injuries can range from muscle strains to more serious injuries to the spine. These injuries may happen due to heavy lifting or falls. Symptoms of a back injury may include pain, stiffness, and swelling. For a spinal cord injury, you might experience numbness, tingling, and problems walking. 

Back injuries can impact your ability to work and carry out daily activities. They can also cause chronic pain. In addition, treatment for a back injury can be quite expensive. A lawyer can help you pursue compensation for the damages resulting from your injury. 

Burns

Common causes of burns in construction sites include:

• Flames
• Hot liquids
• Hot surfaces
• Electrical currents

Third-degree burns or burns involving large areas of the body can be pretty severe. Symptoms of a burn injury include pain, redness, swelling, and blisters. Treatment for a burn injury may consist of medication and, in serious cases, surgery. 

Burn injuries can have a significant impact on your physical and emotional well-being. They can cause scarring, disfigurement, and disability. If you suffer a burn injury, you can seek compensation. 

Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of head injury. It occurs when the head gets subjected to a sudden, violent force, such as a blow or a jolt. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe TBIs that cause permanent disability or death. 

TBIs can have severe and long-term consequences. Examples are cognitive impairment, motor problems, and communication deficits. If you suffered a TBI in a construction accident, a lawyer can help you understand your legal options. 

Lacerations

A laceration is a deep cut or wound. Some things that cause this type of NJ construction accident injury include:

• Accidental contact with sharp objects like tools or building materials
• Slip and fall accidents, leading to contact with sharp edges or corners
• Getting struck by falling objects
• Poorly maintained or defective equipment

Treatment for a laceration may include cleaning the wound and using stitches. In serious cases, you may need surgery to repair damaged tissue. An attorney can help you navigate the compensation process after suffering a laceration.

Loss of a Limb

The loss of a limb is a life-altering injury. A common cause of injury is machine accidents. Heavy machinery can cause amputations if someone’s limb gets trapped or crushed.

A lawyer can thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident. They can also identify all parties that may be liable for the injury and help you seek damages. This may include lost income, disability, and the cost of prosthetics and medication.

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) occur when you repeatedly do the same task, causing strain on a specific body part. These injuries can affect the wrists, hands, elbows, shoulders, neck, and back.

RSIs can impact your ability to work and perform daily activities. If you have an RSI due to your work in construction, speak with a lawyer. They can help you claim workers’ compensation benefits for your injury.

Eye Injuries

Eye injuries can range from mild irritations to serious harm, like damage to the retina. Causes of the injury include flying debris, chemical splashes, and welding flash.

Construction workers are also at risk of developing vision problems. This is due to the nature of their work. For example, working in poorly lit areas can lead to vision problems over time. A lawyer can help you recover damages for this type of injury.

Recover Compensation for Your Construction Accident Injury

A construction accident injury can cause physical pain, financial strain, and emotional trauma. You can obtain compensation if you are the victim of an NJ construction accident injury. A lawyer can help you navigate the process of claiming workers’ compensation benefits.

Contact Us For Help with Your Construction Accident Claim

A construction site is often chaotic; any one or more entities may be legally liable when a construction worker is injured or killed. If you’ve been injured, you should contact an attorney who can help you understand your options.

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout New Jersey and New York with their injury cases. We have years of experience in both workers compensation and personal injury claims. Our top-rated attorney team has the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. If you or a loved one has been injured at work, contact us immediately to discuss your case.