Getting involved in a car collision can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you are not prepared for what comes next. However, knowing the correct steps to take after such an incident can significantly ease your stress and protect your legal rights. Here’s some advice on what to do if you find yourself in a collision situation in Jersey City.
Firstly, it’s crucial to ensure everyone’s safety. Check if you or any passengers have suffered injuries and call 911 immediately if medical assistance is required. Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as they may worsen over time.
Secondly, contact the police right away regardless of the severity of the accident. In jersey city personal injury attorney law, you’re required to report any auto accident that results in injury or property damage above $500. The responding officer will document the scene and provide an official accident report which will serve as key evidence should you file a claim later on.
Next, gather information about all parties involved in the collision including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details and license plate numbers. If there are witnesses around who saw what happened during the incident ask them for their contact information too – their testimony could prove invaluable later on.
It is also important to document everything about the scene of the accident itself: location details like street names or landmarks; weather conditions; traffic signals; damages sustained by all vehicles involved; and even personal injuries if visible at that moment. Use your smartphone camera for this purpose – pictures can speak louder than words when making your case before an insurance adjuster or court.
After ensuring everyone’s safety and gathering necessary information from the scene, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all gathered details but avoid speculating about who was at fault until further investigations are done.
Finally yet importantly seek legal counsel promptly particularly from lawyers specializing in personal injury cases resulting from vehicle collisions. They’ll help you understand your rights, guide you through the claim process, and represent your interests against insurance companies or in court if necessary. In Jersey City, many lawyers offer free consultations to accident victims so take advantage of this service.
Remember that New Jersey is a “no-fault” state which means regardless of who’s at fault for an accident, each driver’s own insurance policy is responsible for medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the crash. However, serious injuries may allow you to step outside the no-fault system and bring a liability claim against the at-fault driver.
In conclusion, while it’s understandable that a collision can leave one feeling disoriented and overwhelmed, taking these steps ensure your safety and protects your legal rights. If you are unsure about anything after an accident occurs, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from healthcare providers or legal experts.
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers
239 Washington St Suite 307, Jersey City, NJ 07302
201-583-5765