Learn the steps to take after a motor vehicle accident in Northern NJ to protect your health and legal rights.
Car accidents happen in a flash. Whether it’s a fender bender on Route 206 or a major collision on I-80, what you do in the moments after an accident can affect your health, your finances, and your ability to recover compensation later.
If you’ve just been in a car accident in Northern New Jersey, here’s what you need to do right away:
1. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Your first priority is safety. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further damage. Turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately.
2. Call 911
Even for minor accidents, a police report is essential. It creates an official record of what happened and may include witness statements and details about the crash scene. This report will be important for your insurance claim and potentially your personal injury case.
3. Exchange Information
Be polite, but don’t admit fault. Exchange names, contact details, insurance info, driver’s license numbers, and vehicle details with the other driver(s). If there are any witnesses, get their contact info as well.
4. Document the Scene
Take clear photos and videos of all vehicles involved, including visible damage, skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and road conditions. Don’t forget to save any dashcam footage, if available. If you have visible injuries, photograph them as soon as possible.
5. Seek Medical Attention – Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away. Always visit a doctor after a car accident. If your injuries are immediately noticeable, seriously consider being transported by ambulance to the hospital. A medical record not only protects your health but can also help link your injuries to the crash.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer right away and stick to the facts. Ask if your plan has Personal Injury Protection (PIP). In New Jersey, PIP covers medical bills and some lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. It helps you get care fast, but serious injuries may still need legal action to recover full compensation.
7. Don’t Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Without a Lawyer
Their questions may seem routine, but they are trained to get you to say things that can hurt your claim. Let your personal injury attorney handle all communication to protect your rights and strengthen your case.
8. Contact a Local Car Accident Attorney
A Sussex County personal injury attorney can protect your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If your accident occurred in Sussex, Morris, or Warren County, the experienced team at Dolan & Dolan is ready to help. We offer a free consultation because we’re confident in our ability to win and we want you to feel the same.
Why Choose Dolan & Dolan?
- Our Attorneys have over 100 years of legal experience
- Our Attorneys have deep roots in Northern New Jersey
- Our Attorneys have proven success in car accident and injury claims
Please contact our office to arrange for a free consultation.