No one expects to be in a car accident, but when it happens, the impact can last far beyond the crash itself. Medical bills pile up, injuries make everyday tasks difficult, and insurance companies look for ways to pay you as little as possible. The stress of it all can be exhausting, especially when you’re just trying to heal. You don’t have to handle this alone. If another driver’s carelessness caused your injuries, Noonan & McMahon, LLC will step in, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

According to the New Jersey State Police, 655 fatal car crashes occurred in 2024. In addition, 692 individuals lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents in New Jersey, a 14.2% increase from the previous year. In Monmouth County, 54 fatalities occurred from traffic accidents. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and increased awareness among both drivers and pedestrians.

Most car accidents are caused by human error. Even a moment of inattention can lead to serious injuries or worse. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Distracted driving – Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to passengers can distract a driver from the road.
  • Speeding – Driving too fast reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
  • Drunk or impaired driving – Alcohol and drugs slow reflexes and impair judgment, making accidents more likely.
  • Reckless or aggressive driving – Tailgating, weaving between lanes, and road rage put everyone at risk.
  • Running red lights and stop signs – Ignoring traffic signals often leads to severe intersection collisions.

If another driver’s actions caused your accident, we will fight to hold them accountable.

Injuries That Can Result from a Car Accident

Even a low-speed crash can cause serious injuries. Some injuries are obvious right away, while others take days or weeks to appear. Common injuries from car accidents include:

  • Whiplash – Sudden movement of the head and neck can cause pain, stiffness, and long-term discomfort.
  • Broken bones – Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis often require extensive recovery time.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – A concussion or more severe brain injury can impact memory, coordination, and cognitive function.
  • Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spine can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis.
  • Soft tissue injuries – Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments can limit movement and cause lasting pain.

If you’ve been injured in a crash, we can help you seek the compensation you need to recover.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the accident. Some exceptions exist, but they’re not common. You may have longer if the victim was a minor at the time of the accident (assuming the parents didn’t take legal action). You have less time if a government agency is to blame. In personal injury cases, it’s always better to consult an attorney sooner rather than later. You’ll need strong evidence, which might not be available if you fail to act quickly. 

Who Could Be Liable for My Injuries After a Car Accident? 

Liability in a car accident depends on who caused the crash. In many cases, one or more parties may be responsible, including:

  • Negligent drivers – Speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and reckless behavior often cause accidents.
  • Vehicle manufacturers – If a defective part, such as faulty brakes or airbags, contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be liable.
  • Government agencies – Poor road maintenance, missing signs, or dangerous intersections can make a city or state responsible.
  • Employers – If a commercial driver caused the crash while working, their employer may be held accountable.

We will investigate your accident to identify all liable parties and seek maximum compensation.

What to Do After a Car Accident 

A car accident can leave you feeling disoriented, but taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights. Here’s what to do after a crash:

  • Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. A police report can serve as valuable evidence.
  • Check for injuries – Prioritize your safety and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries take time to appear.
  • Gather evidence – Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact details from witnesses.
  • Avoid admitting fault – Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and other drivers. Even a simple apology could be used against you.
  • Notify your insurance company – Report the accident, but be cautious with your statements.
  • Contact a car accident attorney – We will protect your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

What Types of Damages Are Available to Car Accident Victims? 

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Damages generally fall into three categories:

  • Economic damages – These cover financial losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.
  • Non-economic damages – These compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact of your injuries on daily activities.
  • Punitive damages – In cases of extreme negligence, such as reckless driving or DUI, a court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver and deter future misconduct.

The amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident. Noonan & McMahon, LLC will fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your losses.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident? 

Being partially at fault for a car accident doesn’t necessarily prevent you from recovering compensation. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still seek damages as long as you were not more than 50% responsible for the crash. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, your total recovery would be reduced by 20%. Insurance companies often try to shift more blame onto you—we will fight to ensure you are treated fairly and receive what you deserve.

How We Can Help with Your Car Accident Claim 

Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be frustrating. Adjusters often try to minimize payouts or shift blame. At Noonan & McMahon, LLC, we will step in to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team will:

  • Investigate the accident – We gather police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage.
  • Assess your damages – Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering should all be accounted for in your claim.
  • Handle negotiations – We deal with the insurance companies, so you don’t have to.
  • Take your case to court if needed – If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are ready to fight for you in court.

We will guide you through every step and work to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Contact Our Experienced Monmouth County Car Accident Attorneys

A car accident can leave you facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about the future. You don’t have to handle it alone. We will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Noonan & McMahon, LLC today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.