Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Last updated on June 2, 2026
Personal injury lawyer Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law, founded his law firm in Bergen County because he is committed to seeking justice and fighting for the rights of his New Jersey clients. If you need a car accident attorney, Michael Beatrice is well-respected in the community because of his extensive experience and commitment to his clients.
A passionate negotiator, attorney Michael Beatrice represents clients who have been injured in car accidents. He helps them seek compensation for their losses and accident injuries. With more than 45 years of experience and hundreds of litigated cases, he fights for his clients’ right to secure compensation. If you’ve been in a car accident near Hackensack, you can rely on his vast experience and fierce dedication.
What Steps Should You Take After A Car Accident?
Knowing what to do after a car accident can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation in an injury lawsuit. Here are some steps you should take if you’ve been injured in an accident:
- Protect the safety of everyone involved: If possible, move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
- Report the accident: Contact the police to file an accident report. This report will be important evidence should you need to file a claim.
- Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s). Collect contact information from any witnesses. Use your phone to take photos of insurance cards, drivers’ licenses, licenses plates and any damage to the vehicles involved.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it is a good idea to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.
Finally, it is a good idea to contact a car accident attorney. A Hackensack car accident attorney who understands New Jersey laws and regularly deals with insurance companies can help you understand your legal rights and options.
New Jersey: A No-Fault State For Car Accidents
New Jersey is a no-fault state for car accidents. This means that your own insurance policy will cover your medical expenses and other out-of-pocket losses, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, if your injuries are severe and meet certain thresholds, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover additional damages. Understanding the nuances of New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws can be complex, so consulting with an experienced car accident attorney is advisable.
What Kinds Of Damages Can You Recover In A Car Accident Case?
In a car accident case, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Compensation for medical expenses can cover hospital bills, medication and rehabilitation costs. It will also estimate future medical costs related to your accident injuries. For example, if you are suffering from a brain injury, you can seek compensation for expected ongoing treatment for a TBI.
- Lost wages: Compensation for lost wages includes any income lost due to your inability to work during recovery. It can also include compensation for lost employment opportunities that can be directly attributed to your accident injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering includes calculations for the physical pain caused by your injuries, but also for the emotional distress that you suffered as a result of the accident.
- Property damage: Compensation for property damage includes the repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence, you may be awarded punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault party.
Each case is unique, and the specific damages you can recover will depend on the details of your accident and injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help you assess your claims and determine an amount of compensation that accurately reflects the damages you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Car Accidents
Understanding your legal rights and options may be the last thing on your mind after a car crash, but accurate information can become your weapon. The answers to common questions car accident victims ask can illuminate your situation and offer you a clearer path toward a better future.
Is New Jersey an at-fault state for car accidents?
No, New Jersey uses a no-fault insurance system. This means your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical treatment and certain financial losses regardless of fault. This system helps ensure injured victims receive prompt care without waiting for a liability determination.
However, the state’s no-fault rules do not prevent you from pursuing a claim against an at-fault driver when your injuries meet the state’s legal threshold. You may be eligible for a claim if you suffered permanent injuries, significant scarring, displaced fractures or other qualifying harm. Your ability to sue may also depend on the options you selected when you purchased an auto insurance policy.
Do I have to file a police report after an accident in New Jersey?
Yes, in certain situations. State law requires drivers to report a vehicle crash to law enforcement when it results in injury, death or property damage of at least $500. Filing a report can strengthen your case by documenting the incident, which can be critical for insurance claims and future legal action.
In many cases, officers will respond to the scene and prepare an official crash report. However, you may also be required to submit a written report to the Motor Vehicle Commission if the police do not investigate the crash. Notifying the police can help preserve key details, identify witnesses and create an objective record of what occurred. A timely report can also prevent disputes with insurers about how the collision happened.
What can I get compensation for in a New Jersey car accident claim?
The compensation awarded typically depends on the severity of your injuries, the insurance coverage available and whether you are permitted to pursue a liability claim under your policy. Many injured people seek damages for crash-related medical costs, lost income and the cost of future treatment.
Additional compensation may be available for pain and suffering, reduced earning capacity and the impact of long-term or permanent injuries. When property damage is involved, you may also recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal items.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim for a car accident in New Jersey?
The New Jersey statute of limitations for most car accident injury claims is two years from the date of the crash. This deadline applies to lawsuits seeking compensation for bodily injuries, and missing it generally means losing the right to pursue your claim in court. The statute of limitations is separate from insurance filing deadlines, which may require earlier notice.
Certain situations can impact this timeline, such as claims involving minors or cases where the injury was not immediately discoverable. Since the rules can be complex, it is crucial to understand how the statute applies to your specific circumstances and to act well before the deadline approaches.
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
Many New Jersey car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay upfront fees for legal representation. Instead, the lawyer receives a percentage of the recovery if the case is successful. This structure allows injured people to access legal help without taking on additional financial strain during an already difficult time.
Contingency fees also align the lawyer’s interests with the client’s interests because payment depends on obtaining a favorable outcome. You should always review the fee agreement carefully to understand how costs, expenses and percentages are handled throughout the case.
Consult A Car Accident Attorney in Hackensack or Mahwah For Free
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Bergen County, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Schedule a free consultation with accident lawyer Michael J. Beatrice to discuss your case. Call the firm at 201-897-3570 or send a message through the firm’s website to book your confidential, no-obligation appointment today.