What to Do After a New Jersey Car Accident That Is Not Your Fault

Car accidents are unexpected, and it’s easy to panic when you have been involved in one. Although no one can ever really be ready for a crash, you can familiarize yourself with the proper steps to take after a collision. Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault can help you get through the first few minutes and days following an accident without compromising your legal rights.

At Rosner Law Offices, P.C., our New Jersey car accident lawyers have put together a helpful list of steps to take following any auto accident in New Jersey.

5 Things to Do After a New Jersey Car Accident

1. Don’t Leave the Scene

Under New Jersey law, motorists involved in an accident must immediately stop their vehicles and move to the side of the road to avoid disturbing the flow of traffic or causing another collision. If the damage caused by the crash makes it impossible for you to move your vehicle, you should get a tow truck on the scene as quickly as possible. In any event, you should keep your vehicle as close to the crash site as you can. Obviously, if you are too injured to move, you should stay put until emergency medical personnel arrive.

2. Get Medical Help

Your health is your first priority. If your injuries are serious, you should request an ambulance, or arrange for transportation to the nearest emergency room. If your injuries are not serious enough to merit emergent care, you should follow up with your doctor as soon as possible after the accident. A delay in medical treatment can hurt any potential personal injury claims related to your accident, as the insurance company may try to show that your injuries weren’t really that bad, or that something else caused your injury between the time of the accident and when you eventually sought medical care.

3. Call the Police

You must report the crash to the police, even if it seems minor, and even if the other driver asks you not to report it. Some drivers may even try to convince you to “settle” the case between yourselves. Although you may sympathize with the other driver, it’s important to protect your legal rights. You should not have to shoulder the burden of another person’s negligence. Let an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyer assess your case.

4. Don’t Admit Fault

After an accident, your mind may be going a mile a minute. When your adrenaline is pumping, it’s easy to blurt out statements you would not ordinarily make. Avoid speculating about which driver caused the accident. Many factors can contribute to the cause of a motor vehicle collision. If you admit fault to police, the other motorist, a witness, or an insurance company adjuster, your admission could come back later to hurt your chances of obtaining a full and fair recovery for your damages.

5. Contact a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer

As soon as possible after your accident, you should call a New Jersey car accident lawyer about your case. At Rosner Law Offices, P.C., we get involved right away. We handle talking to the insurance company on your behalf, so you can focus on healing from your injuries and getting back on your feet. We will also help you explore your options, and discuss the next steps in your case.

Call a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer About Your Case

If you have been injured in a car accident, there is no time to lose. You have important legal rights. If you wait to speak to an attorney, you could miss out on the opportunity to get the compensation you deserve. Call the New Jersey car accident lawyers at Rosner Law Offices, P.C. today. Call or text (856) 502-1655