Many people think they know what to do if they are in a car accident until they’re standing on the side of the road following one. The steps you take following a car accident are important when it comes to protecting yourself legally and medically.
Here are 10 things you need to do after a car accident.
Stop And Pull Over
If you’re in a car accident, stop. You should never drive away from the scene of an accident, even a minor one, as this can lead to criminal charges. You should pull over to the side of the road in a location that’s safe for every vehicle involved in the accident.
Call The Police
It’s usually a good idea to contact the police and tell them about the car accident. Most insurance companies require a police report to file a claim. Additionally, contacting the police creates an official police report which may be necessary if you decide to pursue a legal case.
Take Note Of The Details
While you wait for the police to arrive, take note of any important details of the accident. This includes your injuries, other passenger injuries, or damages to either vehicle.
Avoid Admitting Blame
Avoid admitting blame, even if you think that you’re at fault. It’s not always easy to determine who’s at fault while standing at the scene of the accident.
Capture Photos
Capture photos or videos of the scene of the accident. This information can help you recover important details later or prove your innocence.
Exchange Information
This is also a good time to exchange information with other drivers. Ask for their contact information, as well as their insurance information. Take note of any witnesses and ask for their contact information too.
Inform Your Insurance Company
You should notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Many insurance companies have time limits on how long you have to notify them to ensure you’re eligible for coverage.
Receive Medical Care
If you didn’t receive immediate medical care, make sure you follow up with a medical visit with your doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show up until later, and waiting to receive medical care can be dangerous.
Keep A Record Of All Expenses
Keeping a record of all expenses ensures you account for all your costs, whether you decide to file a claim with your insurance company or file a third-party lawsuit. It can be easy to forget some costs, so keeping a file with medical bills and repair statements can ensure you include all costs in your claim.
Talk With A Lawyer
Depending on the details of your case, it may be worth it to talk with a lawyer. If the insurance company fails to cover your damages or medical bills, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help. If your damages exceed the compensation available through your insurance policy, you may have other options available. The best way to learn about your options and stay within the state’s statute of limitations is to consult with a lawyer.
Contact a Little Falls Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Camili & Capo, PA represent clients injured because of a car accident in Little Falls, Hackensack, North Caldwell, New Brunswick, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 834-8457 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1 Lower Notch Road, Little Falls, NJ 07424, as well as offices in Hackensack and New Brunswick, NJ.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
