Personal Injury

Average settlements in car accident claims range from numbers in the thousands, tens of thousands, and sometimes millions. This depends on the injuries suffered, the cause of the accident, and who is held liable.

While typical car accident settlements vary, what is clear is that hiring an attorney to represent you greatly improves your chances of securing a settlement. Additionally, that settlement amount increases by an average of 300%.

The attorneys at Falcon Law Firm can be reached online or by phone at (732) 660-1200. Let our experience in handling car accident cases be of great value to you and your family.

What Is an Average Car Accident Settlement?

Car accident collision claims for property only can be in the low thousands, while the claims for bodily injury average above $15,000. Catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims can get into far higher numbers, hundreds of thousands to multi-million dollar cases.

It’s difficult to pinpoint one number or even a range of amounts for how much to expect from a car accident settlement. Averages vary year to year, and can be pulled in skewed directions by one unusually low or high result. 

If you want to know what your car accident settlement could be worth, ask yourself:

• Bills — How much did your medical bills cost? This number is added up from co-pays, out-of-pocket expenses, and other recovery items like pharmaceuticals, mobility aids, and/or physical therapy.
• Wages — How much time and money did you miss from work? This can include sick and vacation time eaten up in dealing with the accident, lost wages, missed advancement opportunities, skipped contracts (including for freelancers), and lost employment.
• Pain — How much pain and suffering did you experience? A car accident can easily cause physical pain ranging from discomfort to agony. Crashes also frequently lead to psychological trauma like stress, panic attacks, or bereavement if you lose something or someone irreplaceable.
• Punishment — Did the other driver act irresponsibly? If the cause of your accident was due to another person’s negligence or recklessness, they may be ordered to pay more as punishment (aka punitive damages). An example of this is in cases of DUI or distracted driving.

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, call a Falcon Law Firm car accident attorney at (732) 660-1200 to ask us what we can do for you. In answering your questions, we can begin to build your case, prepare all the necessary documents, and help you secure the fair settlement you deserve.

Your likelihood of securing a settlement with a personal injury attorney is 96%, and the settlement amount averages 300% higher than unrepresented claims.

How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take?

Once again, there is no clear average timeframe that can answer this question for you. Speedy pre-trial settlements don’t happen in all claims, and they usually happen when both parties don’t want to drag the process out through a full trial. Importantly, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, claims that are represented by a personal injury lawyer result in settlements 96% of the time.

Basically, when you walk in with an experienced attorney, you are far more likely to walk out with a swift, satisfactory settlement than if you filed your claim independently.

As far as the timeline of car accident settlement or verdict results, the factors involved include:

• Quick negotiations: Your lawyer will gather evidence of your accident and who caused it, and may be able to use that information to negotiate a fair settlement with an insurance company in a relatively short period of time.
• Reasonable settlement agreements: If the negotiations stall, your attorney can file a lawsuit. Often the official filing of a suit brings the parties involved back to the table to agree on a settlement before going to trial.
• Efficient trials: If the settlement offers are insufficient, the lawyers at Falcon Law Firm have no hesitation about taking your case to trial. In many instances, settlements are reached before a verdict is made. If the trial does continue to a verdict, there may be even more compensation available to you, rewarded at the judge’s discretion (like punitive damages ordered from those who were found to be in the wrong).

Rest assured that court officials and judges do not want their time wasted any more than you do. If the other side’s counsel or insurance representatives intentionally try to frustrate negotiations by stalling, they risk being punished by a judge. 

Your attorney from Falcon Law Firm will work to get you a prompt, fair settlement if at all possible. We are also happily prepared to see your case through to the end no matter what. Regardless of whether settlement or trial is involved, we aren’t finished with a case until your needs are met.

Contact Attorneys Experienced in Car Accident Settlements

Car accidents occur every minute of every day on average, to the tune of over 5 million accidents per year. A significant portion of those accidents cause severe injury and death, and every single one of them costs resources that could be better spent: time, money, and energy.

Falcon Law is a personal injury firm that takes your injuries personally, whether they are physical, psychological, or financial. Though we can’t undo the consequences of a car accident, we do work tirelessly to see that our clients recover the maximum amount that is available to them in compensation. 

Reach out to us via our online contact form, or by calling (732) 660-1200 at your earliest convenience. We know you and your family’s health and safety is worth more than the bare minimum. We will work to secure the settlement you deserve as soon as you reach out to us.

The value of having your own attorney after a car accident is more than just the likelihood of an increased settlement amount. A lawyer also saves you time, worry, and common mistakes that can be made in the confusion after a car wreck.

If you’re severely injured, caring for the injured party, or mourning their death, having a legal professional on hand can be vital. In cases complicated by drunk driving, or as seemingly simple as a rear-end accident, we cover the legal side of things so you can prioritize your own health and the well-being of your family.

The lawyers at Falcon Law Firm handle paperwork on your behalf, advise you of your rights, and carry out your wishes while you focus on your own needs. Reach out to us through our confidential online form to schedule a consultation, or by calling (732) 660-1200 for representation right away.

For more information on what to do immediately after an accident, or how the car accident claims process works, read on.

I Just Got Into an Accident, What Do I Do?

The order of the steps you take after a car accident is important. We like to use the acronym “CRASH” to break it down. By following this guide, you can help reduce your stress and avoid common missteps:

• Care: Priority number one after a crash is always your physical safety, the safety of those around you, and then the safety of your property and private information. Getting those who need treatment to the hospital or dangerously wrecked vehicles off the road is the first and most important task.
• Report: Reporting the incident to the police can help protect your rights later. If you are able to, dictate your memories to officers, record them on your own cell phone, and take pictures.
• Attorney: From here on, every action you take can be aided by an attorney. By hiring your own lawyer, you’re represented when dealing with insurance companies, negotiating payouts, and pursuing a lawsuit if your losses cost more than initially offered.
• Settle: Reaching a fair settlement often depends on your ability to counter an insurance company’s offer, which may require evidence. Your attorney can gather this information on your behalf, prepare and negotiate a counter settlement, and take your case to trial if necessary. 
• Heal: While your attorney works for your benefit, your efforts can go to recovering your health and repairing or replacing your vehicle. There are some tasks that are your own private business, but for everything where your attorney can help, we’ll be there.

Auto accidents can be highly destabilizing. You’re parked or driving, going about your own business, when suddenly an impact derails the rest of your day, week, year, and sometimes your life depending on the severity of your injuries. 

An experienced lawyer can help you right away, even in those first few moments when you’re asking, “Someone crashed into me, what do I do?” We can advise you every step of the way, and handle all the paperwork associated with securing the settlement or damages award you deserve.

Whether you’ve been in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident, Falcon Law Firm is here to help.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

By helping you secure a settlement or damages award (ordered by a judge), a car accident attorney can help you access:

• Payment for medical bills and ongoing treatment
• Reimbursement for lost wages, loss of a job, and employment-related benefits (like health insurance)
• Compensation for pain and suffering, including stress-related conditions like PTSD
• Punitive damages, which are funds that may be charged to negligent parties that are then awarded to you
• Coverage for wrongful death expenses like funeral costs and the loss of a family’s breadwinner. This also takes into account the loss of your loved one’s companionship and guidance. 

The main benefit of hiring a car accident lawyer, after the time and stress we can save you, is the prospect of settlement and verdict results. You are more likely to receive a settlement with professional legal representation. Your settlement may also be up to 300% higher on average. 

How Do I Contact a Car Crash Lawyer?

If you’ve been in a car accident, you don’t have to handle the fallout alone. Falcon Law Firm is a personal injury firm operating primarily in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with extensive experience in car and automobile accident cases. We’re here to you and yours with a rapid response after an unfortunate accident, and will be with you through the entire process until we achieve the fairest possible settlement.

Falcon Law can be reached through our online contact form, or by calling (732) 660-1200 directly. We work tirelessly to serve our neighbors, their families, and to help stop preventable accidents from happening by holding wrongdoers accountable.

Common rear-end accident injuries can vary from minor scratches to catastrophic spinal cord injuries. When a drunk driver causes a rear-end crash, the consequences can be tragic.At Falcon Law Firm, LLC, our rear-end accident attorneys believe negligent drivers should be held accountable for their actions. Call today if you or a loved one have been hurt in an accident due to someone’s careless act. You can schedule a free consultation by clicking here or calling (732) 660-1200.

Woman Suffers Fatal Injuries From Being Rear-Ended 

Recently, a truck fatally rear-ended a North Carolina woman on Route 9 in New Jersey. According to the report, the crash involved a Toyota Echo with four people. Among them was twenty-year-old Ciara Gee of Raleigh, North Carolina. When paramedics were called to the scene, Ciara was pronounced dead. 

While the investigation is still pending, it has been determined that forty-year-old Sergio Seixeiro struck the car from behind. As of this article, Sergio has been charged with:

• Driving while intoxicated
• Vehicular homicide
• Three counts of assault by auto. 

State police believe the contributing factors to the rear-end collision involve speed and driving while intoxicated. Seixeiro is being held at the Middle County Adult Correction Center until his pre-trial hearings. 

Examples of Rear-End Accident Injuries in New Jersey and Pennsylvania

At Falcon Law Firm, LLC, we have extensive experience helping rear-end car accident victims. Whiplash is one of the most common rear-end accident injuries. 

Neck, Head, and Shoulder Injuries, Usually Resulting in Whiplash

When a vehicle fails to stop and strikes a car from behind, the body can lurch forward, causing a whipping effect to the spine and neck. Symptoms of whiplash include:

• Moderate to severe neck pain
• Stiffness of the neck, sometimes limiting mobility
• Shoulder pain
• Low back pain
• Dizziness, especially when moving from a sitting to a standing position
• Pain in the arm or hand
• Numbness in the arm or blurred
• Blurred vision
• Concentration and memory problems
• Irritability
• Sleeplessness
• Fatigue

Whiplash can be delayed by several hours to days following a crash, so it is important to seek medical attention after a collision. At the emergency room, whiplash can be diagnosed via the following methods:

• X-ray 
• Magnetic resonance imaging, MRIs
• Computed tomography, or CT scans

Whiplash can be treated in several ways:

• Ice packs are helpful within the first 24 hours of the incident
• Neck collars can protect your neck and prevent you from further injuries
• Physical therapy
•  Osteopathic manipulation

Back Injury From Rear-End Car Accident 

Sustaining back injuries from a rear-end car accident can be devastating. Spinal injuries can be catastrophic, often causing long-term pain and damage. As the body jerks from impact, the spine can be compressed, and the lower back muscles and ligaments bruised.

Herniated disks can also present problems over time. A spinal disc acts as a shock absorber and holds the ligaments of the spine together. Discs can tear open, leak, put pressure against the spine, and pinch in a rear-end collision. Sufferers tend to experience:

• Numbness
• Pain in the extremities
• Tingle sensations

Arm and Wrist Injuries

Arm and wrist injuries are also common. When drivers brace for a crash’s impact, they instinctively tense their arms, wrists, and hands. However, by stiffening the hands and arms, accident victims contribute to the severity of the injury. Most suffer:

• Broken wrists
• Wrist sprain
• Stress fractures
• Dislocated shoulder or joint

Broken, fractured, and Dislocated Bones

While an airbag deployed after an accident may save a driver or passenger’s life, it can come at a cost. Rear-end accidents that deploy the airbag can bruise or break the ribcage and sternum. Additionally, a seatbelt jerking across the chest may crack or break ribs. 

Broken bones may present symptoms that include:

• Deep, intense ache or sharp pain
• Severe bruising
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Heat
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Feeling chills

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, can cause many problems. In some cases, injured parties can experience permanent damage. The most common symptoms of a TBI are:

• Concussion
• Bruising
• Bleeding 
• Torn neurons

Amputations and Loss of Limbs

When high speeds play a part in the crash, occupants can experience catastrophic injuries. Victims may lose hands, feet, or limbs or may need to have them removed. Losing an extremity is profoundly life-altering. Victims must relearn every aspect of their life, including:

• Day to day activities, like putting on a shirt or shoes
• Commuting to and from places may need to be adjusted, whether driving, biking, or walking

In addition to the physical adjustments, amputees often suffer pain from nerve damage and phantom limb syndrome. The emotional and psychological toll from losing a limb is significantly taxing. Facing a lifetime of physical therapy, prosthetic limbs, pain management, therapy, and more can be overwhelming.

Amputations and lost limbs are often the sources of a decreased quality of life. Accommodations may be needed for the house and may require adjustments.

Crushing Injuries

Crushing injuries occur when occupants are pressed against the ground or the vehicle has been crumpled during the accident. Often, they involve internal organ damage and bleeding. 

At Falcon Law Firm, LLC, we understand the serious impact catastrophic injuries can have on a person’s life. If you or a loved one have experienced devastating injuries due to driver negligence, call one of our esteemed rear-end car accident lawyers.

How Rear-End Accident Injuries Affect Drivers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released a study that analyzed rear-end collisions across the country. The study found:

• Rear-end collisions are the most frequent kind of accident
• More than 29% of all traffic accidents are rear-ending injuries
• Nearly 87% of rear-end collisions involve a distracted driver
• 64% of drivers took their eyes off the road

The study concluded that infrastructure improvement might not be enough. Adding safety measures to cars themselves may be necessary, like a rear-signaling system that stops after the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

At Falcon Law Firm, LLC, we will fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries

How Falcon Law Firm, LLC, Can Help Secure the Compensation You Deserve

If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a rear-end collision, Falcon Law Firm, LLC is here for you. For over two decades, our superior legal team has recovered hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements for our clients. 

In addition:

• We provide close, personal, and responsive service
• We are fluent in Spanish 
• We are a highly accomplished litigation firm, earning recognition with:

• TheMillion Dollars Advocates
• Best Attorneys in America
• National Trial Lawyers Association Top 100 Trial Lawyer

What Damages Are You Entitled to After Suffering Injuries from Being Rear-Ended?

Typically, accident victims will recover the costs of repairing your vehicle. If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of your motor vehicle, it is important to speak with your rear-end accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can review your claim to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Complete coverage of your medical expenses related to the accident
• Lost wages if you are unable to work
• Loss of future income
• Pain and suffering damages
• Loss of consortium
• Emotional distress damages
• Possible punitive damages for gross negligence 

If you or a loved one have experienced a whiplash injury due to a negligent motorist, consult with one of our personal injury lawyers to discuss the compensation you deserve.

Call Falcon Law Firm, LLC Today for Your Rear-End Accident Attorney

Injuries from being rear-ended are often significant. Whiplash injuries can be especially painful, sometimes lasting for months at a time. Soft tissue injuries, including strains and sprains to the muscles and tendons, can be difficult to prove. At Falcon Law firm, LLC, our experienced rear-end accident attorneys have the skills, resources, and medical experts to overcome complex medical cases. 

Damage to a vehicle is tangible. Unfortunately, the suffering, pain, and trauma rear-end accident victims experience are not. At Falcon Law Firm, LLC, we know the key to securing the maximum compensation for our clients is to present intangible feelings in a way that an otherwise healthy person can understand.If you or a loved one have been hurt in a rear-end collision, you need Falcon Law Firm, LLC. Receive a free evaluation of your case today by clicking here or calling (732) 838-5435. We have served clients with honesty, integrity, and determination for more than two decades.

Car accidents can be stressful and costly. One way to mitigate the chances of a collision is to drive appropriately for the season. During winter, motorists need to take several precautions to ensure they reduce their risks.

In many parts of the United States, winter driving can quickly turn treacherous. A snow squall can become a blinding barrier. A bit of rain can freeze up and turn into black ice on the highway. This does not mean that drivers have no way of protecting themselves, their passengers, or other people on the roads. Taking a few precautions can reduce one’s chances of a collision.

Check the Tires Frequently

Some consumers prefer to exchange their regular tires for winter or all-weather tires. Other motorists keep the same tires year round. Regardless, all four tires should be evaluated at least monthly during the winter. Variations in temperature can cause tires both to inflate and lose pounds of air pressure. An underinflated tire can cause trouble.

Drivers should therefore control their tire pressure and check it frequently. They should also check tire tread depths or have a trusted auto mechanic do it for them. When necessary, tires should be replaced with new ones built for performance when conditions are imperfect.

Replace the Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are vital during any kind of precipitation event. From freezing rain to sticking snow, wipers allow drivers to see whatever is ahead with as much visibility as the weather will allow. Replacing wipers can be easy and fast. Most drivers can learn to do it themselves, or one can have a technician do it.

Maintain Gas

Most car manufacturers and automobile experts recommend keeping at least a quarter of a tank of gas in the car when the temperature plummets. Otherwise, the gas line might start to freeze.

Clean the Lights and Mirrors

Snow, dirt, and sludge can build up on lights and side mirrors. It can be very challenging to see the road ahead or to catch a glimpse of another vehicle with clouded headlights.

Drive Defensively

During winter, defensive driving should be practived. For instance, a motorist may want to increase their following distance by an extra couple of car lengths, slow down to below the speed limit in certain situations, and resist using cruise control. A driver should also limit distractions, including listening to the radio and cellphone use.

Store Emergency Items in the Car

A final way to stay safer when driving during wintertime is to keep an emergency kit in the car. The kit should include flares, something to repair a flat tire, blankets, water, and energy bars. These items are important, especially if a car accident leaves a driver waiting for help.

Doylestown Car Accident Lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC Help Winter Car Accident Victims Recover Damages

If you were involved in a winter car accident, do not wait until the statute of limitations runs out on your ability to file a claim. A Doylestown car accident lawyer at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC can help you. Call us at732-660-1200 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Oakhurst, Parlin, and Aberdeen, New Jersey, and Doylestown, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Asbury Park, Belmar, Deal, Ocean Township, Point Pleasant, Long Branch, West Long Branch, Sayreville, Middlesex County, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, as well as Bucks County, Pennsylvania.