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Injured in a Car Accident in New Jersey? Here’s What to Know and What to Do Next
- January 29, 2025 Leer en Español
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. Between the pain, the medical bills, and the phone calls from insurance companies, it’s hard to know where to turn — or who to trust. At Antonucci Law Firm, we want you to know one thing right away: you don’t have to go through this alone.
Whether your accident happened on a highway or a quiet local street, we’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. For over 30 years, we’ve stood beside people just like you — everyday New Jersey drivers who never expected their lives to be turned upside down by a crash.
Our firm is based right in Union, NJ. We offer real support, experienced legal representation, and a team that truly cares about your recovery — both financially and emotionally.
Why Car Accident Claims Aren’t Always Simple
Car accidents happen fast — but the impact can last for months or even years. What might look like a straightforward fender-bender at first can quickly turn into a complicated insurance battle or a lingering medical issue. That’s why having the right legal support matters.
In our experience, we’ve seen how seemingly minor crashes can lead to real problems. You may be dealing with neck or back pain, missed work, and mounting expenses — all while the insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly.
The truth is, not all car accident cases are simple.
- Was the other driver distracted or speeding?
- Did multiple vehicles contribute to the crash?
- Are they trying to shift blame onto you?
These questions aren’t just legal details — they can determine whether you receive a fair settlement or walk away with far less than you need to recover.
At Antonucci Law Firm, we dig deep to understand the facts and protect your best interests. We don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you — we hold them accountable.
The True Cost of a Car Accident
When people think about car accidents, they often picture the damage to the vehicle — but the real costs usually run much deeper.
There’s the physical toll: lingering back pain, neck injuries, or even more serious conditions that require months of treatment. Then there’s the time lost — time away from work, from your family, from your life. Add in the stress of medical bills, car repairs, and constant calls from insurance adjusters, and the situation can quickly feel overwhelming.
And the emotional impact? That’s real too. Many of our clients describe sleepless nights, anxiety behind the wheel, or a sense of frustration that things still don’t feel “normal.”
The bottom line is this: even a crash that didn’t seem catastrophic at the time can leave long-lasting effects. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your legal team sees the full picture — not just the property damage.
What to Expect When Filing a Car Accident Claim
After a car accident, most people have the same question: “What happens next?” The answer depends on your case — but here’s what you can expect when you work with us.
We start by listening. Before we talk about paperwork or legal strategies, we want to understand your story — how the accident happened, how it’s affected your life, and what kind of support you need. From there, we begin building your case.
That often means:
- Investigating the accident scene
- Collecting medical records and police reports
- Speaking with witnesses and accident reconstruction experts
- Communicating directly with insurance companies on your behalf
You won’t be left guessing or chasing updates. We walk you through every step, keeping things clear and moving forward. Whether your case ends in a settlement or goes to court, we’re there to fight for the best outcome — not just the fastest.
Don’t Wait Too Long — Deadlines Matter
One of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of a personal injury case is timing.
In New Jersey, you typically have two years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury claim. That might sound like plenty of time, but the truth is, life gets busy. Between medical appointments, car repairs, and trying to get back on your feet, it’s easy for weeks or months to pass before you even consider speaking with an attorney.
Unfortunately, waiting too long can put your case at risk. Evidence can disappear. Witnesses may forget key details. And insurance companies are known to use delays to their advantage.
That’s why we encourage people to reach out sooner rather than later — even if you’re not sure you want to file a claim. A quick conversation can protect your rights and give you peace of mind.
We’ll walk you through your options, explain the deadlines that apply to your situation, and help you decide what’s best for you. No pressure, no obligation — just honest guidance when you need it most.
Why People Trust Antonucci Law Firm
When you’re searching for the best personal injury attorney in New Jersey, credentials matter. But so does character. At Antonucci Law Firm, we’ve built our reputation on both.
Stacey Antonucci is one of the few attorneys in the state to hold the title of Certified Civil Trial Attorney, a distinction awarded by the New Jersey Supreme Court to lawyers who demonstrate exceptional experience, knowledge, and respect among their peers. It’s a reflection of decades of real trial experience and proven results.
Joseph McCaffrey, born and raised in Union, brings strong litigation skills and a true understanding of the community he serves. Clients appreciate his clear communication and dedication to every case — no matter the size.
We also know that results speak for themselves. Over the years, we’ve helped clients recover millions in settlements, including:
- $1.25 million for a car accident
- $1.75 million for a trip and fall
- $1.25 million for a slip and fall
- $1 million for a bicyclist hit by a car
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
With over 100 five-star reviews, a history of community involvement, and a track record of real results, we’ve earned the trust of clients across the state. But what we’re most proud of? The number of people who tell us they felt supported, respected, and genuinely cared for throughout the process.
Because that’s what we believe law should be — professional, personal, and powerful.
Real Stories, Real Results – What Clients Say
When you’ve been injured, it’s hard to know who to trust. That’s why hearing from others who’ve been in your shoes can make all the difference.
Our clients often come to us feeling unsure and overwhelmed. They leave feeling empowered, supported, and — most importantly — heard. Here are just a few of the things they’ve shared:
“If you’re looking for a warm, kind soul to represent you, look no further.”
— Christian L.
“Joseph handled my case with professionalism and excellence. He explained every detail to me.”
— Javeria R.
“I knew I would not just be a number — I felt more like family.”
— Joe D.
These stories mean the world to us because they reflect what we strive for every day: real relationships, honest guidance, and unwavering commitment to each client’s well-being.
Want to hear more?
You can read dozens of personal injury lawyer reviews near where you live and see why so many people across New Jersey choose Antonucci Law Firm when it matters most.reviews.
FAQs – What New Jersey Drivers Ask After a Crash
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New Jersey?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. But don’t wait — evidence can fade, and legal deadlines can vary based on your specific circumstances. If you’re unsure, reach out to our team.
Do I have to go to court if I file a claim?
Not necessarily. Many car accident cases are resolved through settlement before trial. But if the insurance company won’t offer what’s fair, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.
How much compensation can I get?
Every case is different. Factors like the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and long-term impact all play a role. We’ll fight to make sure your settlement reflects your full losses.
Should I talk to the insurance company first?
It’s best to speak with a lawyer before giving any recorded statements. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts. We can communicate with them on your behalf.
What if the other driver was uninsured or fled the scene?
You may still have options. Your own insurance policy might include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or there may be other avenues to recover damages. Our attorneys can help you explore every possibility.
Still have questions? That’s what we’re here for.
Call (908) 257-8946 — our team is ready to help, and your consultation is always free.
A Personal Message from Stacey Antonucci
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably carrying more than just the physical pain of an accident — you might be feeling frustrated, unsure about the future, or just plain exhausted by it all. I want you to know: I see you. I’ve been where you are.
Years ago, I was hit and seriously injured by a drunk driver. I know how fast your world can change. I know the fear, the disruption, and the sense that you’re suddenly just a number to the insurance companies. That experience changed my life — and it shaped the kind of attorney I’ve become.
For more than 30 years, I’ve been helping people pick up the pieces after serious accidents. It’s not just about legal wins (though we’ve had many). It’s about making sure you feel cared for, understood, and protected — because this is personal for me.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, I hope you’ll reach out. You’ll speak with a real person. You’ll get honest answers. And you won’t pay anything unless we win.
You’ve got enough to worry about — let us carry the legal burden for you.