Morristown Personal Injury Attorney

Experienced Morris & Sussex County Injury Attorney Dedicated to Helping Injury Victims and Their Families

The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. is a New Jersey law firm exclusively representing accident victims in their personal injury claims against the negligent person or entity responsible for causing them harm. The firm’s principal attorney, Michael P. Burakoff, has been helping injury victims in Morris County and surrounding areas for more than 40 years. During that time, he has helped innumerable clients and achieved dozens of six and seven-figure recoveries through negotiations and trial for the most seriously injured. You may not need that much compensation in your case, but it’s good to know you’ve got a lawyer capable of handling the most catastrophic injuries and complicated claims.

Due to his vast knowledge and experience in New Jersey personal injury law, Mr. Burakoff has been called upon to serve as a Superior Court arbitrator in automobile accidents and personal injury cases, and he also arbitrates uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims. Earlier in his career, Mr. Burakoff was co-counsel for Essex County, Union County, and a dozen New Jersey municipalities in mass tort litigation against the lead paint industry. No matter what type of injury you have suffered or who caused it, the Morristown personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. can advise you, guide you, and represent you to a successful outcome.

Personal Attention Focused on You and Your Family

The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. is different from other New Jersey personal injury law firms in the level of attention we provide, not only to the injury victim but to the entire family of the victim. We know that a personal injury is stressful for the whole family, and we understand how important family support is to individual healing and recovery. We keep clients and their families informed and involved throughout their case. Mr. Burakoff handles every critical aspect of the case personally and always returns calls promptly, typically on the same day.

Comprehensive Morristown Personal Injury Law Firm

Since 1976, Michael P. Burakoff has been handling personal injury claims in Morris County and beyond. We’ve seen it all and done it all during that time, and we put that high level of experience to work for you in your case. Call our Morristown personal injury attorney for help with any New Jersey personal injury matter, including all of the following.

Motor Vehicle Accidents – We handle car, truck and motorcycle accidents, pedestrian and bicycle accidents, bus accidents, and much more. We take on negligent drivers in distracted driving accidents, drunk driving accidents, UBER/Lyft accidents and just about any type of collision imaginable. The insurance company will deny their driver was at fault, or they’ll say you were to blame. They’ll also claim your injury isn’t serious to pay less or avoid liability. We know how to prepare and present a strong case proving the other driver’s liability to you.
Premises Liability – Our offices deal with slip and fall injuries in grocery stores, retail stores and parking lots, and government property. We handle dog bite injuries, playground accidents, and negligent security in apartment buildings. Property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition, including inspecting the property and promptly fixing any hazards or putting up a warning. They’ll claim you weren’t looking where you were going, or they didn’t know about the danger. We’ll uncover the facts that prove they knew or should have known of the hazard yet failed to take appropriate action in time to avoid an accident.
Work Accidents – We work with experienced workers’ compensation attorneys to get you medical benefits and wage replacement after an on-the-job injury, and we pursue civil negligence claims against third parties in appropriate cases to get you the maximum compensation available. Were you injured on the job as a police officer? Workers’ comp may not be your only option. We can help.
Construction Accidents – More workplace accidents happen on construction sites than anywhere else. Owners and contractors are required to provide a safe working environment with appropriate equipment. We hold them liable when they don’t, as well as negligent third-parties who deliver materials or negligently conduct operations on the construction site. Call us after a scaffolding or ladder accident, forklift or crane accident, trench or excavation accident, electrocution, toxic exposure or any other construction site injury.
Products Liability – Manufacturers are strictly liable for injuries if they let a dangerous or defective product get on the shelves. We hold product makers liable for design defects, manufacturing defects and failure to warn. Our firm also handles food poisoning cases from tainted or contaminated food products.
Medical Malpractice – We hold doctors and hospitals to the standard required of the medical profession. We handle claims of negligence or incompetence involved in surgery errors, birth injuries, misdiagnosis, medication errors and other medical mistakes.
Catastrophic Injuries – The most severe accidents require the most skilled and dedicated injury lawyers to investigate and build a solid case proving liability and securing full and fair compensation. Our offices handle cases involving traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, permanent disability and wrongful death. We take on the most challenging accidents that cause catastrophic injuries, including airplane accidents and train accidents.
Bad Faith Insurance – Your insurance policy is a contract, and it comes with an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing. It’s reasonable to expect insurance companies to investigate claims and make sure they are only paying on valid claims and paying a fair amount, but when their investigations are done solely to deny a claim, that’s bad faith. We hold insurance companies to task for wrongful claim denials, unreasonable delays in processing claims, making unreasonable requests for documentation, offering an unreasonably low settlement amount, and other bad faith tactics.
Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken bones and fractures
Burns and lacerations
Internal injuries
Disfigurement or scarring
Emotional and psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression)

Personal injury accidents result in a wide range of injuries. Some may heal with time and treatment, while others can cause long-term or permanent disability. Whether you’re dealing with a mild concussion or a life-altering disability, your injury deserves legal recognition if it was caused by negligence. The impact of these injuries can last a lifetime, affecting your ability to work, enjoy life, and care for your family.

Common Locations Where Injuries Occur

Injuries can change lives in an instant. Whether caused by a car crash, a slip on a wet floor, or a defective product, personal injuries often result in more than just physical pain—they bring emotional distress, financial burdens, and lasting consequences. If you or a loved one has been hurt due to someone else’s negligence in Morristown, New Jersey, you don’t have to navigate the road to recovery alone. With a skilled personal injury attorney like Michael P. Burakoff, P.A by your side, you can pursue the compensation you deserve and protect your legal rights every step of the way.

While an injury can happen anywhere, some locations in and around Morristown tend to be more accident-prone:

Intersections and Roads: Heavily trafficked areas like Speedwell Avenue, Route 202, and Madison Avenue are common sites of vehicle collisions.
Retail Stores and Shopping Centers: Wet floors, poor lighting, and cluttered aisles can lead to slip and fall accidents in places like Headquarters Plaza, Morristown Green, and shopping plazas throughout Morris County.
Construction Zones: With ongoing development and renovations, both workers and pedestrians can be injured by falls, heavy machinery, or falling debris.
Apartment Complexes and Rental Properties: Unsafe stairways, broken railings, and lack of maintenance can contribute to tenant injuries.
Public Parks and Sidewalks: Inadequate maintenance of sidewalks or recreational facilities in parks like Lewis Morris Park or Lidgerwood Park can lead to injuries, especially among children and the elderly.
Nursing Homes and Medical Facilities: Neglect, abuse, or medical malpractice may cause harm to vulnerable populations.

Identifying where and how an injury occurred is essential to establishing liability and filing a successful personal injury claim.

Types of Car Accidents in Morristown

Car accidents remain one of the most common causes of personal injury in Morristown. These accidents vary in severity and type, but all can result in serious physical and financial harm. Here are the most frequent types:

Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted driving or following too closely, rear-end collisions may result in neck, back, or spinal injuries.

Head-On Collisions: These accidents typically happen at high speeds and often lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Side-Impact or T-Bone Accidents: Common at intersections when a driver fails to yield or runs a red light, side impacts can crush the driver or passenger side and cause internal injuries.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups: These complex accidents involve several vehicles and often occur in poor weather or on congested highways like I-287 or Route 24.

Drunk Driving Accidents: Accidents involving impaired drivers are entirely preventable and tend to cause more severe injuries due to reckless driving behavior.

Hit-and-Run Accidents: Victims may be left with medical bills and vehicle damage and require legal assistance to locate the at-fault party or file a claim through their own insurance.

Pedestrian or Bicycle Accidents: With increased walkability in downtown Morristown, more pedestrians and cyclists are at risk from inattentive drivers, particularly in crosswalks and bike lanes.

No matter the type of accident, if it was caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Morristown

Knowing what to do after a car accident can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and building your case:

1. Get to Safety and Call 911
Ensure everyone is safe and call emergency services. Police will file a report that becomes crucial evidence later.

2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, symptoms of injuries like whiplash or concussions can appear later. Prompt medical attention documents your injuries.

3. Exchange Information
Collect names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers from all parties involved.

4. Take Photos and Videos
Capture the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and any contributing factors like traffic signs or skid marks.

5. Speak to Witnesses
Get names and phone numbers of any bystanders who saw the accident occur.

6. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Inform your insurance company about the accident but avoid making statements about fault.

7. Do Not Admit Fault
Keep communication with other drivers limited. Admitting fault at the scene can be used against you later.

8. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Before accepting any settlement offers or giving recorded statements, consult with an experienced lawyer like Michael P. Burakoff, P.A.

Possible Compensation in a Personal Injury Claim

Victims of personal injury may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work, plus reduced earning capacity if you’re unable to return to your job.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life.
Property Damage: Repairs or replacement costs for vehicles, phones, or personal belongings.
Disability or Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent injuries that change your ability to function or appearance.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one has died due to someone else’s negligence, surviving family members can pursue damages for loss of companionship, income, and funeral costs.

Each case is unique. A skilled Morristown injury lawyer will calculate a fair value for your claim based on your specific losses.

New Jersey Personal Injury Laws to Know

Navigating a personal injury claim in New Jersey involves understanding certain legal principles:

Statute of Limitations: In New Jersey, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.

Comparative Negligence Rule: New Jersey follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. If you are partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

No-Fault Auto Insurance: New Jersey is a no-fault state for car insurance. This means your own insurance typically covers your medical expenses up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the accident. However, serious injuries can exceed these limits and allow you to sue the at-fault driver.

Liability in Slip and Fall Cases: Property owners must maintain reasonably safe conditions. If you slip and fall on a hazard they knew—or should have known—about, you may have a premises liability claim.

Understanding your legal options is the first step toward justice.

How Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. Can Help

Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. has decades of experience representing injured individuals and families throughout Morristown and Morris County. He understands how a sudden injury can derail your life and is committed to guiding you with compassion, clarity, and skill.

Here’s how his firm can support you:

Thorough Case Evaluation: Your consultation includes a detailed assessment of the accident, your injuries, and legal options. Michael will tell you upfront whether you have a valid claim.

Evidence Collection: The firm works quickly to preserve key evidence—photos, witness statements, accident reports, surveillance footage, and medical records.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Michael P. Burakoff is an experienced negotiator who will fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Litigation When Necessary: If a fair settlement isn’t offered, the firm is prepared to go to trial. Michael has a proven track record of successful verdicts and knows how to build a persuasive case.

No Upfront Fees: You pay nothing unless he recovers compensation for you. This contingency fee structure ensures access to quality legal help without financial risk.

Personalized Service: Every client receives attentive, one-on-one legal care. You won’t be passed off to a junior associate or left in the dark about your case’s status.

Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. is a trusted advocate who genuinely cares about his clients and their recovery. If you’re hurt, his firm is ready to fight for justice on your behalf.

Morristown Personal Injury FAQs

If you’ve been injured in Morristown due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait. You have legal rights and options, but time is of the essence. Contact Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. today to schedule a free consultation and start your path to recovery with an experienced Morristown injury attorney who puts your needs first.

Q: How do I know if I have a personal injury case?

A: First, you must have suffered an injury to your person or property. Second, you should consider whether your injury was someone else’s fault. It is not always necessary to have a physical injury to bring a personal injury lawsuit — some personal injury claims can be based on a variety of nonphysical losses and harms. In the case of an assault, for example, you do not need to show that a person’s action caused you actual physical harm, but only that you expected some harm to come to you. Similarly, you also may have a case if someone has caused injury to your reputation, invaded your privacy or intentionally inflicted emotional distress upon you.

Q: How soon after I am injured do I have to file a lawsuit?

A: Every state has certain time limits, called “statutes of limitations,” which govern the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss the deadline for filing your case, you may lose your legal right to damages for your injury. Consequently, it is important to contact a lawyer as soon as you suffer or discover an injury.

Q: What should I bring with me for my meeting with a lawyer?

A: You should provide a lawyer with any documents that might be relevant to your case. Police reports, for example, may contain eyewitness information and important details about the conditions surrounding the event from which your claim arises. Copies of medical reports and bills from doctors and hospitals will help demonstrate the extent and nature of your injuries. Information about the insurer of the person who caused your injury is extremely helpful, as are any photographs you have of the accident scene, damaged property and your injuries. The more information you are able to give your lawyer, the easier it will be for him or her to determine if your claim will be successful. If you haven’t collected any documents at the time of your first meeting, however, don’t worry; your lawyer will be able to obtain them in his investigation of your claim.

Q: What if a person dies before bringing a personal injury lawsuit?

A: If a person injured in an accident subsequently dies because of those injuries, that person’s heirs may be able to recover money through a wrongful death action. Also, even if a person with a personal injury claim dies from unrelated causes (someone who broke their arm in a car accident, then died after falling down a flight of stairs, for example), the personal injury claim survives in most cases and may be brought by the executor or personal representative of the deceased person’s estate.

Q: What is negligence?

A: The critical issue in many personal injury cases is just how a “reasonable person” was expected to act in the particular situation that caused the injury. A person is negligent when he or she fails to act how an “ordinary reasonable person” would have acted. The determination of whether a given person has met the “ordinary reasonable person” standard is often a matter that is resolved by a judge or jury after presentation of evidence and argument at trial.

Q: If I can’t prove someone’s negligence caused my injury, is there any other basis for personal injury liability besides negligence?

A: Yes. Some persons or companies may be held “strictly liable” for certain activities that harm others, even if they have not acted negligently or with wrongful intent. Under the theory of strict liability, a person injured by a defective or unexpectedly dangerous product, for instance, may recover compensation from the maker or seller of the product without showing that the manufacturer or seller was actually negligent. Also, persons or companies engaged in using explosives, storing or transporting dangerous substances or keeping dangerous animals can be strictly liable for harm caused to others as a result of these activities.

Q: Will the person who caused my injury be punished?

A: Not in the traditional sense of the word. Defendants in personal injury cases do not receive jail terms or similar penalties as punishment; those are reserved for the criminal justice system, and personal injury is a civil matter. However, in some cases, juries and courts can award what are called “punitive damages,” which are designed to punish defendants who have behaved recklessly or intentionally against the public’s interest. The goal in ordering the payment of punitive damages is to discourage the defendants themselves and others from engaging in the same kind of harmful behavior in the future.

Q: How long will my personal injury case take?
A: It depends on the complexity of the case. Some cases settle in a few months, while others, especially those involving litigation, may take a year or more.

Q: What if I was partly at fault?
A: You can still recover damages in New Jersey as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: Not necessarily. Many personal injury claims are settled outside of court. However, if a fair settlement isn’t offered, filing a lawsuit may be necessary.

Q: How much is my case worth?
A: Every case is different. Factors that influence case value include the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and emotional suffering.

Q: Can I afford a personal injury lawyer?
A: Yes. Michael P. Burakoff, P.A. works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.

Q: Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement?
A: Not without legal advice. Insurance adjusters often offer lowball settlements. An attorney can ensure your compensation covers your full losses.

Serving Throughout Morristown and Beyond

Chatham
Florham Park
Hanover
Morris County
Morris Plains
Newton
Parsippany
Rockaway
Sparta
Washington Valley
Morristown North
Butterworth Farms
Abbett Avenue
Rose Arbor
Windmill Pond
Cromwell Hills
Madison
Convent Station
Harding Township
Green Village
Normandy Park
Speedwell Avenue
Burnham Park
Franklin Corners
Mount Kemble Lake
Cedar Knolls

You can Afford High-Quality Legal Representation in a Morristown Personal Injury

At the Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff, P.A., we believe in justice for people who have been wronged by the negligence of another. Obtaining justice requires that injury victims are able to have high-quality legal representation to get the best result, regardless of their ability to pay for a lawyer out of their own pocket. That’s why our Morristown personal injury lawyers operate on contingency fees. We advance all the costs of your case, so you never have to pay out-of-pocket. Our fees and costs come out of the settlement or judgment we obtain for you, and if we can’t recover any money for you, then we don’t charge you any fee.

Call 973-455-1567 for a free consultation on your claim. Weekend or evening appointments are available, and we can come to you if you can’t travel to our offices in Morristown, Newton or West New York. Call today, and we’ll get started right away, helping you and your family move forward with your lives after a serious personal injury accident.

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