New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyers

Protecting Your Rights After an Accident or Injury

At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, our New Jersey personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping injured victims and their families recover. We know that dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are fighting to recover from your injuries. You may be out of work and struggling to pay your bills, all while trying to make sense of what happened to you and how to move forward.

Our team is here to help you through this difficult time.  Beyond merely offering legal representation, we serve as your advocates in a system that often feels intimidating and impersonal. We understand the intricacies of New Jersey's personal injury laws and actively work to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. Our approach is thorough, compassionate, and client-centered from initial consultation to resolution.

We understand that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to personal injury lawsuits. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and the unique circumstances surrounding your case. We are committed to providing you with the personalized legal guidance you need and deserve and the strong representation you require.  At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we believe in building strong attorney-client relationships bolstered by trust and transparency. Our extensive experience allows us to tailor strategies that effectively address each situation's distinctive elements, ensuring a well-rounded approach to advocacy and litigation.

Injured by someone else's negligence? Call Simonson Goodman Platzer PC today at (800) 817-5029 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Personal Injury Cases We Handle 

Our firm represents clients in all types of personal injury cases, including:

• Car accidents
• Truck accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Construction accidents
• Defective products
• Premises liability
• Catastrophic injuries
• Wrongful death

Understanding New Jersey's Personal Injury Law

New Jersey's personal injury laws are designed to protect individuals who have suffered harm due to another party's negligence. The state follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% responsible. This can be crucial in maximizing your compensation. Our attorneys have deep knowledge of these laws and use them to structure robust legal strategies that effectively advocate for your rights.

Beyond compensation, personal injury law in New Jersey also encompasses the statute of limitations, which is the timeframe for filing a lawsuit. Commonly, this period is two years from the date of the accident. However, nuances, such as the discovery rule, may extend this deadline. Our team will guide you on how these laws apply to your unique circumstances, ensuring all procedural requirements are met so your claim remains valid.

Common Causes of Personal Injuries in New Jersey

Understanding the common causes of personal injuries in New Jersey can help potential clients recognize their situations and seek legal help. Frequent scenarios leading to personal injury suits include:

• Vehicle Collisions – Accidents on roadways like the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike are common due to high traffic density, often resulting in severe injuries.
• Slip and Falls – Occur due to hazardous conditions such as wet floors, unguarded staircases, and poorly maintained sidewalks.
• Medical Malpractice – Includes misdiagnoses, surgical errors, medication mistakes, and other forms of negligence by healthcare providers.
• Workplace Accidents – Injuries resulting from unsafe working conditions, defective equipment, or lack of proper safety measures.
• Premises Liability – Accidents occur on another’s property due to hazards like broken railings, inadequate security, or unsafe walkways.

Our approach involves thoroughly investigating these incidents to identify liable parties and secure fair compensation. We emphasize the importance of:

• Documenting evidence
• Obtaining witness statements
• Seeking immediate legal representation

In any case, contacting an attorney immediately is essential to protect your rights.

How to Prove Your Case

After you have been injured, taking specific steps to protect your right to seek compensation is essential. 

One of the most important things you can do is to gather evidence. This can include photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage, as well as the contact information of any witnesses. Additionally, you should seek immediate medical attention. Not only will this help ensure that you receive the medical care you need, but it will also help establish a link between the accident and your injuries.

When filing a personal injury claim, you must prove that the at-fault party’s negligence caused your injuries. This means you will need to show that:

• The at-fault party owed you a duty of care
• The at-fault party breached the duty of care
• The breach of the duty of care caused the accident
• The accident caused your injuries

At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, our New Jersey personal injury lawyers have extensive experience handling all personal injury cases. We know what it takes to build a strong case and will fight to protect your rights every step of the way. Our team is prepared to do whatever it takes to help you secure a favorable settlement or jury verdict, and we are not afraid to take on large insurance companies and corporations.

Damages in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

There are two main types of damages in personal injury lawsuits: economic and non-economic. Economic damages are those that can be easily calculated, such as medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more difficult to quantify. These damages include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.

Typical damages in a personal injury lawsuit include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
• Scarring and disfigurement

Additionally, in cases involving particularly reckless or egregious behavior, you may be able to recover punitive damages. These damages punish the at-fault party and help prevent others from engaging in similar behavior.

How Much Is My Case Worth?

There is no such thing as an “average settlement” for personal injury cases. Every case is different so that the settlement amount can vary significantly. The amount of compensation you can recover will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact your injuries have on your life and ability to work, and the actions of the at-fault party.

Our personal injury attorneys in New Jersey are prepared to fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. We will carefully review your case and help you understand the potential value of your claim.

What If I Was Partially at Fault?

In New Jersey, you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. This is because New Jersey follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. Under this rule, you can still recover compensation if you were not more than 50% at fault. However, your total damages will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if your damages are $100,000 but you were 10% at fault, you can only recover $90,000.

Statute of Limitations For Personal Injury Claims in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is two years. This means you have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file within this time frame, you will lose the right to seek compensation.

There are certain situations in which the statute of limitations may be “tolled” or paused, such as when the victim is a child. Additionally, if you do not discover your injuries right away, you may have an extended amount of time to file a claim. 

In any case, contacting an attorney immediately is essential to protect your rights.

Insurance Companies & Your Personal Injury Claim

Dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury claim in New Jersey. Insurers often aim to minimize payout by disputing claims or undervaluing the compensation owed. At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, our attorneys are adept at negotiating with these companies to ensure you receive a just settlement. We handle everything from filing the initial claim to tackling any disputes that arise, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Our firm understands insurance companies' tactics, such as shifting blame or questioning the severity of injuries, and we are fully prepared to counteract these strategies. With vast experience in handling insurance claims, we work tirelessly to establish the actual value of your damages, drawing on expert assessments and detailed documentation to fortify your claim. Our clients can rest easy knowing they have dedicated advocates by their side.

Do I Have to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

While you are not legally required to have a lawyer to file a personal injury claim, it is highly recommended that you hire one. Personal injury cases are incredibly complex and can be difficult to navigate, especially when you are also recovering from your injuries. 

The insurance company will have a team of adjusters and lawyers on their side, all working to protect their best interests. You deserve to have someone fighting for you.

When you hire a personal injury lawyer in New Jersey, you put a powerful advocate in your corner. Your lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence and reviewing your medical records to negotiating with the insurance company and, if necessary, representing you in court. This allows you to focus on what matters: your recovery.

Reasons to Call Simonson Goodman Platzer

At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we know that you have many options when it comes to New Jersey personal injury lawyers. However, our team is uniquely equipped to provide you with the top-quality legal representation you need and deserve. We are committed to helping you recover the maximum compensation you are owed and will tirelessly fight for your rights.

When you choose to work with us, you can expect the following:

• Compassionate, one-on-one attention: We know dealing with a serious injury can be incredibly stressful. That’s why we are here to provide you with the compassionate legal guidance you need and deserve. When you work with our team, you will receive the one-on-one attention you deserve. We will take the time to get to know you, your unique situation, and your goals and concerns.
• Proven track record of success: At Simonson Goodman Platzer PC, we have a long history of success. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and are prepared to put our extensive experience to work for you. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and aggressive litigators who are not afraid to take on large insurance companies and corporations. No matter how complex your case, we have the tools and resources to handle it.
• Personalized legal strategies: No two personal injury cases are exactly alike. That’s why we never take a one-size-fits-all approach to your case. Instead, we take the time to get to know you, your unique situation, and your goals and concerns. We will work with you to understand the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life and ability to work, both now and in the future. We will then develop a personalized legal strategy that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Contact Our New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys Today

You may be entitled to compensation if you or someone you love has been injured due to another’s negligence. Our personal injury lawyers in New Jersey can help you understand your rights and options. We are committed to providing you with the strong representation you require and the compassionate guidance you deserve. 

Our team is available to answer your questions and address your concerns. We will keep you updated on any and all developments in your case. We are prepared to do whatever it takes to help you secure a favorable settlement or jury verdict.

Contact Simonson Goodman Platzer PC today to meet with our personal injury lawyer in New Jersey!

FAQs About Personal Injury Claims in New Jersey

What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident in New Jersey?

Immediately following an accident, your priority should be safety and medical attention. If able, move to a safe location and contact emergency services. Document everything: take photos of the scene, gather contact info of witnesses, and keep detailed notes of events as you remember them. Seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent but need to be documented for your legal claim. Our firm advises organizing all medical records and accident-related expenses, as this information will be vital in building your claim.

How Long Does it Take to Resolve a Personal Injury Claim?

The duration to resolve a personal injury claim can vary widely. Some claims might settle in a few months, while others, especially those that go to trial, may take years. Factors influencing this timeline include the incident's complexity, the involved parties' cooperation, and the time required for a complete medical recovery. Our attorneys aim to move cases forward efficiently, keeping clients informed at each stage and adapting strategies to facilitate timely resolutions while maximizing potential compensation.

Is There a Cap on Damage Awards in New Jersey?

New Jersey has no cap on economic or non-economic damage awards for personal injury claims, meaning you recover compensation proportionate to your loss. However, punitive damages are capped at five times the compensatory damages or $350,000, whichever is greater. Understanding these caps and their implications can be critical during settlement discussions. Our team clarifies how these rules apply and works diligently to pursue all possible avenues for client compensation.