What do I do After a Car Accident in New Jersey?

The state issues residents drivers licenses on the basis that they are tested to be safe drivers who follow the rules of the road. While this is true, it is an unfortunate reality that there are many people who fail to do so. This can cause dangerous accidents to occur, possibly resulting in life-changing injuries or even death to those who are involved. If you were involved in a car accident, it is important to know what steps should be taken after the fact to help the success of a future personal injury claim. Continue reading below to learn more and contact a New Jersey personal injury attorney for assistance with your case.

What do I do After a Car Accident?

The aftermath of a car accident can be frightening and very overwhelming. However, it is crucial that you remain calm during this time so that you can handle the situation with a clear heard. The following are important steps to implement:

• Call the police, even if the other party involved tells you not to. The police can keep the scene safe, draft an official police report, take witness statements, and conduct necessary chemical tests. This information can be used for a claim in the future.
• Do not apologize. While is understandable that many people’s impulse after an accident is to apologize, doing so can sometimes be seen as an admission of fault for their involvement. Instead, simply be polite, avoid apologizing, and contact the emergency services. 
• Take pictures or video of the scene. This can include any broken glass, deployed airbags, skid marks, and bloodstains as well as poor weather or road conditions.
• Record important information. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses and document the registration information of all vehicles involved. 
• Seek immediate medical attention, even if you do not feel injured. This is because it is possible for injuries to manifest later on. While emergency responders can do medical examinations on the scene of an accident, be sure to see a doctor later on for an official diagnosis.

Pursuing Legal Action

When an accident happens due to the negligence of another party, injured parties can pursue legal action by filing a personal injury claim. In doing so, they are required to prove the driver’s behavior directly caused the accident and injuries that were sustained. This can be done with the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney and the evidence gathered from the scene. If successful, the injured party may recover compensation for the damages they incurred 

Contact our Firm

If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an automobile accident, please contact my office as quickly as possible following the subject accident. It is important to consult with us early on so that we may begin the process of fighting for your rights in regard to any potential claim that you may have. The process is complicated and requires the expertise of a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney. CONTACT US TODAY!