Car accidents are unexpected, stressful, and potentially life-changing events. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a car accident can protect your well-being, preserve critical evidence, and strengthen your claim. This guide provides a clear, actionable plan to follow, helping you navigate the aftermath of a crash while safeguarding your legal rights.
Step 1. Focus on Safety
Following a car accident, it’s essential to address the well-being of everyone at the scene. Whenever possible, relocate vehicles out of the flow of traffic to prevent additional accidents. Use hazard lights to make your presence known to other drivers, particularly in low-visibility conditions like nighttime or bad weather.
Check for Physical Harm
- Evaluate the situation to identify if anyone is hurt.
- Call 911 immediately for medical assistance if someone appears seriously injured or unresponsive.
- Avoid repositioning individuals with injuries unless there is an immediate threat, such as a fire or imminent collision.
Protecting the health of everyone involved is critical. Prompt medical attention not only ensures timely treatment but also provides key documentation that can support your car accident claim.
Step 2. Contact Law Enforcement
In New Jersey, you’re legally required to report a car accident if it results in injury, death, or significant property damage. Call the police and provide an accurate account of what happened.
Why Filing a Police Report Matters
A police report serves as an official record of the accident, documenting details such as weather conditions, the location of the crash, and witness statements. This document is invaluable when filing a car accident claim or dealing with insurance companies.
Make sure to request a copy of the police report for your records. Your car accident lawyer will use this information to strengthen your case.
Step 3. Exchange Information
Gathering information from the other driver(s) involved is essential for resolving insurance claims and potential legal disputes.
Key Details to Collect
- Full name and contact information of the other driver(s)
- License plate numbers and driver’s license details
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information as well. Their statements may be vital if fault is disputed.
Step 4. Document the Scene
Preserving evidence at the scene of the accident can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident claim. Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the following:
- Vehicle damage and the positioning of all involved cars
- Skid marks, debris, or road hazards contributing to the crash
- Traffic signs, signals, and weather conditions
- Visible injuries sustained by you or others involved
These visual records can help your car accident lawyer demonstrate the severity of the crash and identify liable parties.
Step 5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately.
Benefits of Immediate Medical Evaluation
- Ensures hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early.
- Provides medical records linking your injuries to the accident, which are critical for your car accident claim.
Keep copies of all medical bills, treatment plans, and prescriptions, as these documents will support your claim for damages.
Step 6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Provide accurate details but avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries. Insurers often record these conversations, and inconsistencies could be used against you later.
Why Prompt Notification Is Crucial
Most insurance policies require timely reporting to process claims. Delays in reporting can result in denied coverage or delayed payouts.
Before giving a recorded statement, consider consulting with a car accident lawyer to ensure you understand your rights and avoid jeopardizing your claim.
Step 7. Avoid Common Pitfalls
Certain actions after an accident can undermine your case or limit your ability to recover compensation. Be mindful of the following:
- Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid apologizing or admitting fault at the scene, even if you feel partially responsible. Liability is determined through investigation, not personal opinion.
- Don’t Settle Too Quickly: Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements. These offers may not fully cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Don’t Post on Social Media: Refrain from sharing details about the accident or your injuries online. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may use your posts against you.
Step 8. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance adjusters, medical bills, and legal processes. A car accident lawyer can help you:
- Evaluate the strength of your claim.
- Gather evidence to build a compelling case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
- Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Having experienced legal representation ensures your rights are protected and gives you the best chance at recovering the compensation you deserve.
When to File a Car Accident Claim in New Jersey
In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, reporting the accident and starting the claims process as soon as possible is always a good idea. Delays can lead to lost evidence and weakened cases.
Additionally, New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you’re partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible, your total recovery will be reduced by that percentage. If you’re more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages.
Understanding these laws and their implications is vital, which is why consulting a car accident lawyer early on is essential.
Common Types of Compensation in Car Accident Claims
Victims of car accidents in New Jersey may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical treatments.
- Lost Wages: Reimburses income lost due to the inability to work.
- Property Damage: Pays for repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensates for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Your lawyer will assess the specifics of your case to determine the full scope of damages you may claim.
Were You Injured in a Car Accident in New Jersey? Call The Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff to File a Personal Injury Claim
Recovering from a car accident is challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff is here to help New Jersey residents secure the compensation they’re seeking to rebuild their lives.
Give us a call at (609) 957-6810 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, from preserving evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. We work with clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, and the surrounding areas.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.