Being in a car crash in the bustling streets or highways of New Jersey can leave you feeling stressed and confused. Get help from the car accident lawyers at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, who have assisted clients through the aftermath of collisions in New Jersey.
Our attorneys specializing in car accidents possess expertise in managing many types of auto collisions throughout New Jersey, including:
- Camden
- Ewing Township
- Freehold Township
- Hamilton Township
- Mount Holly
- North Brunswick
- Paterson
- Princeton
- Trenton
Stay at the Location. Make Safety Your Top Priority
In New Jersey’s regulations, drivers in a collision incident state that they must stay at the spot of the accident; notably crucial if there are injuries or substantial property damage involved. If you crash and your vehicle can still be driven safely, it is advisable to relocate it to a secure area to avoid further risks. Turn your hazard signals on. Ensure the safety of your passengers and others impacted. If there are any injuries, dial 911 immediately for medical aid.
Call the Police
In the event of a car accident, it is crucial to inform the authorities without delay. Upon the arrival of a police officer at the site, an official report will be compiled detailing aspects such as the accident location, vehicle damage assessment, witness testimonies, and statements provided by drivers or passengers. This record typically serves as an element in determining liability, whether you are navigating an insurance claim process or constructing an injury case.
In New Jersey, if the police do not arrive at the scene, it is up to you to submit a written report using Form SR. 1 within 10 days if the accident resulted in injuries or property damage exceeding $500. Neglecting to do this may be a breach of state regulations.
Exchange Information
After ensuring that all individuals are secure and proper authorities have been notified in case of an emergency; the next action is sharing details with the drivers involved in the incident such as complete names including first and last names if possible, residential addresses, phone numbers, drivers license numbers, vehicle registration plate numbers, and insurance policy information to facilitate a smooth post accident procedure for all parties.
It’s advisable to make a note of the vehicle’s make and model, along with its color, and accurately document the scene where the collision occurred for reference purposes. When you’re talking to the driver after an accident or any challenging situation, it can certainly stir up your emotions, so it is important to stay calm.
Get Medical Attention
If you’re not badly hurt and can walk around without any trouble after a car accident, it’s best to capture the scene using photos or videos. Make sure to highlight the damage to the vehicles， license plates, any scattered glass or debris, skid marks on the road, and any signs or signals nearby. Instead of focusing on close-ups of the cars involved, try stepping back a bit to get shots of the surroundings. Factors such as the weather conditions at the time of the incident and the visibility play roles in piecing together a more detailed understanding of the events that transpired involving vehicles.
If any witnesses happened to see the accident happen and were around the crash site afterwards, ask for their names and contact details, as their perspectives can be quite helpful in case there are disagreements over how the incident unfolded. Additionally, take a moment to write down your account of what took place, including what you observed with your eyes and ears leading up to the collision and how you felt at that moment. Having your detailed written recollection immediately after the accident can be a tool when dealing with insurance matters.
It’s crucial to visit a doctor even if you feel fine after an accident because certain injuries such as concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms. Seeking care immediately also aids in establishing a connection between the accident and your injuries for potential personal injury claims. In New Jersey, when it comes to car insurance policies, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers your expenses regardless of fault. PIP is mandatory no-fault coverage in New Jersey that pays your own medical, wage, and death/funeral costs after an accident up to your policy limits.
Document the Scene
It’s quite normal to feel a bit shaken or overwhelmed after a car accident in NJ. In stressful moments, you might instinctively apologize — but avoid admitting fault.. It’s important, though, to remember that the main goal here is about sharing facts and information. Try your best to focus on gathering and providing the details needed for investigation purposes only while leaving the determination of fault to the experts, like investigators and legal professionals involved in those matters. Staying composed and polite while staying attentive in this interaction can safeguard your rights. The car accident lawyers at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman will guide you through the claim process after an accident.
Notify your Insurance Provider
After you’ve received attention and confirmed everyone’s safety following the incident, it’s important to reach out to your insurance provider and inform them about what happened. Many policies stipulate that timely notification is necessary, and neglecting to do so promptly may put your coverage at risk. When communicating with the insurance agents, focus on presenting the details without speculating on fault or presuming the extent of your injuries.
Understand New Jersey’s No-Fault System
In New Jersey’s insurance system, called “no fault, ” your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage covers your bills within the limits of your policy, without considering who was at fault for the car accident. When determining if your injuries are eligible for a liability claim outside of the no-fault system, it can get intricate.Your ability to sue may also depend on whether you chose the “limitation on lawsuit” option in your auto policy — a restriction many NJ drivers select without fully understanding its impact. That’s why it’s crucial to seek advice from a seasoned car accident lawyer in New Jersey who can assess your circumstances and clarify the avenues for you.
Watch Out for Insurance Company Tactics
After a car crash occurs and you find yourself in such a situation where you are contacted by the insurance company of the driver involved in the incident or by your insurance provider, it is essential to remain vigilant and cautious about your next steps. The reason is that insurance adjusters often make attempts to resolve claims swiftly and inexpensively before you gain an understanding of the severity of your injuries resulting from the auto collision.
Remember that you are not obligated to provide a recorded statement or agree to any settlement offer presented without seeking counsel. In reality, if you sign any documents prematurely or agree to terms quickly without legal guidance, you may unintentionally relinquish your entitlement to seek rightful compensation for damages incurred during the car accident.
Track Your Losses and Damages
Remember to track all costs associated with the incident, from expenses and prescriptions to therapy sessions and lost work hours due to your injuries. Additionally, note how the accident has affected your day-to-day routine, including pain levels and mental well being along with any alterations in your work capabilities and regular activities. Maintaining these records can greatly support your case for compensation concerning aspects like pain endured and emotional strain faced as a result of the incident.
Even small cars weigh several thousand pounds, and bigger vehicles can weigh two to three times that. That results in a lot of force even in low-speed accidents, which can result in severe injuries like:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries, including whiplash
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Injuries to internal organs
Know the Legal Deadlines
In New Jersey’s legal system, time is crucial when filing a personal injury claim, as there is a two-year window from the accident date to take action; missing this deadline could result in dismissal of your case and loss of your chance to seek compensation.
It’s crucial to note that certain situations may involve time constraints; for example, when your injury relates to a public entity or government-owned vehicle and necessitates filing a formal claim notice within a mere 90-day window period. These legal intricacies might slip your attention amidst the focus on recuperation. That’s why it’s imperative to engage with a car accident lawyer who can guarantee the proper and timely submission of all documentation, thereby safeguarding your entitlement to seek justice.
Consult an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
You don’t need to handle the aftermath of a car accident on your own. An experienced personal injury lawyer can handle conversations with the insurance companies, collect evidence, and construct a case for you while you concentrate on getting better. At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, we have secured compensation for individuals involved in car collisions throughout New Jersey. Whether you’re facing an injury, wrongful death claim, disputed accountability, or an uninsured motorist situation, our team of experts is prepared to support you every step of the way.
After a car accident occurs and the days that ensue can bring about feelings of stress and confusion alongside a sense of uncertainty for those involved in the incident. However, by carrying out procedures, staying at the scene, getting medical help, informing the authorities about the crash, gathering evidence effectively, and seeking advice from a lawyer, you increase your chances of safeguarding your well-being and receiving rightful compensation.
Our car accident lawyers have experience handling cases involving many kinds of crashes in New Jersey, including:
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Sideswipe collisions
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck accidents
If you or someone close to you has sustained injuries in a car crash, do not delay. Reach out to the car accident attorneys in New Jersey, at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, for a discreet discussion. We are available to assist you in understanding your choices and advocating for the fairness you are entitled to.
Feel free to reach out to us today for a consultation with a New Jersey attorney specializing in car accidents without any charges on your end.
