Whether a collision involving a commercial vehicle is commonplace or not, it can trigger various questions and make you feel disoriented and frightened. Accident case laws differ significantly between states like Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Knowledge of your rights and obligations and what steps you should take right after the event may dramatically impact any litigation filed. The following section will discuss what to do if you are in an injury accident with a commercial truck and how we can assist you in grasping the ins and outs of this cross-state legislation at Edelstein Law, LLP.
If You Were Involved in a Commercial Vehicle Accident:
1 Ensure Everyone’s Safety and Report the Accident:
Once you are involved in an accident, the first action is to ensure that everyone in your car is unhurt, call 911 if there are casualties, and report to the police because the report will serve as evidence.
2 Exchange Information and Document the Scene:
Get the other driver’s information and gather the insurance and any pertinent company details about the commercial vehicle. Use your smartphone to capture the scene, all engaging vehicles, apparent damage, and street conditions.
3 Obtain Prompt Medical Attention:
Even if you do not feel injured, seek medical advice immediately. Not all wounds caused by an accident manifest themselves.
4 Do not take responsibility for the accident:
It is critical that you do not take responsibility for the accident at the scene or make statements that may be used against you later.
5 Contact a lawyer experienced in commercial vehicle accidents:
This is especially important given the potential issue of cross-state commercial truck laws.
Commercial Vehicle Accident Laws in Pennsylvania & New Jersey:
• Fault vs. no-fault insurance laws:
Pennsylvania follows a choice no-fault system—drivers may ensure they have either no-fault Personal Injury Protection or traditional coverage—while New Jersey is a no-fault state. In this state, an individual’s insurance company pays for his/her medical treatment regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
• Threshold for suing in court:
New Jersey has a limitation on the lawsuit threshold, which prohibits an individual from suing for pain and suffering damages unless he/she suffered one of several specified types of serious injury – for instance, disfigurement, loss of a limb, or death. Pennsylvania has no stringent limitations, making it easier to sue for damages.
• Commercial vehicle regulations:
Both states have specific regulations that will determine much about the investigation and possible accident outcomes. Therefore, understanding the basics of how they work is essential.
How we can assist at Edelstein Law, LLP:
Edelstein Law, LLP, has extensive experience handling vehicle and other commercial accident claims across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our team is expertly suited to assist you with any complex legal issues arising in accidents that cross state lines. We offer:
1 Legal counseling:
Our attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania and New Jersey laws and regulations.
2 Case evaluation:
We will comprehensively assess your case and establish whether you are entitled to compensation for damages or medical expenses.
3 Insurance company negotiations:
We will negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you require without being taken advantage of.
4 Litigation Support:
If your case goes to court, our attorneys can competently present your case.
Taking You and Your Case to the Finish Line:
Contact Edelstein Law, LLP if you or your loved one has been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Pennsylvania or New Jersey. Get the appropriate legal backing during these times. Call us today for a free consultation to begin your recovery journey and get the rightful compensation.
“Commercial vehicle accidents are not one among many on the road; they present unique challenges that often result in catastrophic injury and complexity in the courts. However, if it happens to you, you should do all the above as quickly as possible – secure the site, keep a record, and receive medical care immediately. The final point is to have a competent lawyer familiar with these cases at your side. We pledge to counsel our clients through trying times at Edelstein Law, LLP.”