In the early hours of a November morning, two buses in the express bus lane heading into Manhattan collided outside the Lincoln Tunnel in Weehawken.  A Martz Trailways bus struck the rear of the NJ Transit bus injuring 20 people, some seriously.

Thankfully, no one was killed and no injuries were life-threatening. For most people, the story became a tale of closed lanes, backed up traffic and getting to work late.  But what about the injured?  Witnesses say three were taken out on backboards.

Heavy fog contributed to the accident, but with the number of injuries experienced in this accident, the story of how the collision occurred ¾ and how that damage affects the lives of the injured ¾ will play out at negotiating tables and courtrooms for years to come. While a broken bone is not life threatening, it complicates life and, depending on injury severity, may never heal correctly.  Medical bills mount, wages might be lost and surgery and rehabilitation may be needed.

Accident victims are often denied reasonable compensation or rushed by insurance companies to accept settlement before the true extent of their injuries is realized. It is always a bad idea to settle with an insurance company before speaking with a personal injury lawyer. Once you sign a settlement agreement, your case cannot be opened again, no matter how bad your injuries become. Experienced attorneys know how to assess the long-term costs of your injury and can negotiate for the fair compensation you deserve ¾ or pursue your case in court if necessary. There is usually no cost to contact a personal injury lawyer since most work on a contingency basis.

What do you do if you are heading for work one morning and end your day in the hospital? Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your right to fair compensation.