Can I Sue More Than One Party for My Injury?

If you’ve been injured in an accident, and more than one party is responsible, navigating your legal options can be overwhelming. Please continue reading to learn how fault is determined in New Jersey and how our knowledgeable Jersey City Injury Lawyers can help you hold responsible parties accountable for your damages.  

How is Fault Determined When Multiple Parties Are at fault for an Injury?

In New Jersey accident cases, multiple parties can share liability for an injury. Identifying everyone responsible is crucial to ensure you recover the maximum compensation to which you’re entitled for your damages. Their percentage of fault will depend on their specific role in causing the accident.

New Jersey, like many states, utilizes a “modified comparative negligence” system. Under this rule, a specific percentage of fault is assigned to everyone involved in the accident. A key point is that an injured party can only recover compensation if they are found to be less than 50% at fault for the incident. If your assigned level of fault reaches 50% or higher, you face the absolute bar of recovery. This will leave you burdened with substantial out-of-pocket expenses. 

When multiple parties are at fault for an accident, courts or insurers will determine the exact portion of responsibility for each individual. For instance, one defendant might be assigned 75% f the fault, while another is assigned 25%. You have the right to pursue claims against all responsible parties, often by filing separate lawsuits against each. It should be noted that your total award will be reduced in proportion to your own degree of fault. This ensures that each accountable party pays according to their determined share of fault for the accident. 

What Should I Do If Multiple Parties Are Involved?

Accidents involving multiple at-fault parties often lead to disputes over liability and significant delays in a resolution. Therefore, it’s crucial to take the proper steps to safeguard your claim and ensure your well-being. 

First and foremost, you should seek prompt medical attention. This will ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, as well as establish a documented record of your injuries. Even if your injuries seem minor initially, a medical evaluation is necessary to uncover underlying issues and create a vital link between the accident and your harm. 

If you’re physically capable, you should document the accident scene. This includes taking photos and videos of the site, property damage, and any visible injuries. You should identify and gather contact information from any witnesses, as they may be able to corroborate your version of the events. 

Seeking legal guidance early in the process is a key step to safeguarding your rights and maximizing your claim. At Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., we are prepared to guide you through this complex process. Connect with us today to schedule an appointment.