What to do if you get in a car crash in New Jersey

Every driver in New Jersey hopes to never be involved in a car accident, but the reality is that accidents happen every day. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of a collision can ease the stress and the confusion that often follows. This article provides you with clear, step-by-step instructions for residents of New Jersey. By being prepared, you can protect both your health and your rights.

At the Scene of the Accident

When you're involved in a car accident, the priority is always safety. Here’s what you need to do right after an accident:

Ensure safety:

• Check for injuries. Check if anyone in the vehicle or at the accident site is hurt. Call 911 if there are any injuries, no matter how minor they might seem.

• Call the police. It is always best to call the police before leaving the scene at any accident as you may be subject to a ticket otherwise.

• Move to a safe location. If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move cars to the side of the road, away from traffic. Be sure to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Document the scene:

• Take photographs. Use your phone to take pictures of the scene from different angles, capturing all vehicles involved, any visible damage, and the road conditions. 

• Note details. Write down the time, date, and exact location of the accident. If the police arrive, get the officer's name and badge number, and ask for a copy of the accident report.

Report the accident

You should officially report the accident to the police and to your insurance company. New Jersey law mandates that you report any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage to the police. If the police do not come to the scene, which might happen in cases of minor accidents, you are required to file an accident report yourself.

Notify your insurance company about the accident. Prompt reporting is crucial as most insurance policies stipulate immediate notification. Provide all the collected information and be thorough and honest to avoid complications with your claim.

This is particularly important in New Jersey where you have to submit medical bills for personal injury protection through your car insurance.

Medical attention

Seeking medical attention after a car accident is very important, even if no injuries are immediately apparent. Some injuries, like concussions, might not show symptoms right away.

Document your doctor's visit. Keep all receipts and detailed records of your medical treatments, as these documents are important for insurance claims and legal actions. 

Keep detailed records

Think about keeping all records of your accident. This includes all documentation from the accident scene, medical treatments, and communications with your insurance company. A well-organized file should contain:

• Police reports

• Photos of the accident scene and damages

• Contact information and statements from witnesses

• All medical records and bills associated with the accident

• Correspondence with your insurance company

Keeping these records organized can aid in any insurance claims or legal actions you pursue. It ensures you have all necessary documents readily available for insurance adjusters or your attorney.

Seek legal help

If the car accident involves injuries, financial loss, or if there is a dispute about who is at fault, consult a lawyer. An attorney can guide you through the complexities of filing a claim, dealing with insurance companies, and if necessary, pursuing a lawsuit.

At Gonzalez & Polanco, LLC, Attorneys at Law, we have nearly 30 years of experience in handling personal injury claims including auto accidents and slip and falls. We understand that each case is unique and work closely with our clients to provide personalized legal solutions. 

We will coordinate with medical providers to obtain necessary records, submit claims to insurance carriers, and negotiate settlements that are fair and just. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to litigate to secure a better outcome.

Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of an accident or need legal advice for other matters such as real estate transactions or estate planning, our bilingual team is ready to support your needs. To discuss your case or schedule a consultation, contact us at [website link for contact us form] or 732–442–2500.

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in New Jersey can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can make the process smoother and ensure your interests are protected. 

From ensuring safety at the scene, to consulting with experienced attorneys like Gonzalez & Polanco LLC, it's important to handle each step carefully.