After the crash: steps to take if you’re injured in a new jersey car accident

A car accident is a shocking and often overwhelming experience, especially when injuries are involved. In the immediate aftermath, knowing the right steps to take after a car accident can make all the difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your legal rights, and laying the groundwork for a successful personal injury claim.

This guide walks New Jersey residents through the critical steps to take following a car accident, explains the role of a car accident lawyer, and highlights how to navigate the state’s specific laws to recover the compensation you’re seeking.

Step 1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should always come first. Immediately after a crash:

Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road and out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call 911: Even if the accident seems minor, reporting it ensures that police and emergency responders document the scene.
Seek Medical Care: Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Let paramedics assess you at the scene, and follow up with a doctor for a thorough examination.

Unique Example: You’re rear-ended at a red light in Plainfield, feeling only minor discomfort initially. Later, a doctor identifies a herniated disc causing nerve pain. Prompt medical attention not only protects your health but also strengthens your case.

Step 2. Document the Scene

Thorough documentation of the accident scene can be invaluable if you decide to file a personal injury claim. Use your smartphone to:

Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and road conditions.
Capture details like skid marks, traffic signals, or weather conditions.
Record the names and contact information of witnesses.

Unique Example: While driving through Elizabeth, you collide with a vehicle whose driver ran a stop sign. Photos of the obstructed stop sign due to overgrown branches can support your claim that poor roadway maintenance contributed to the crash.

Step 3. Exchange Information

Exchange essential information with the other driver(s), including:

Names, addresses, and phone numbers
Driver’s license numbers
Insurance company details and policy numbers
Vehicle make, model, and license plate number

Be polite but avoid discussing fault. Even a seemingly harmless apology can be misinterpreted as an admission of liability.

Step 4. File an Accident Report

New Jersey law requires drivers to report accidents resulting in injuries or significant property damage to law enforcement. Obtain a copy of the police report, as it will serve as an official record of the crash.

Unique Example: After a multi-car accident in Edison, police interviews with other drivers help establish that a speeding SUV caused the chain reaction, relieving you of blame.

Step 5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. New Jersey is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically pays for medical expenses up to your policy limits, regardless of who caused the accident.

If your injuries meet the state’s serious injury threshold—such as permanent scarring, significant disfigurement, or loss of a body part—you may pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance for additional damages.

Step 6. Track All Accident-Related Expenses

Keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including:

Medical bills and prescriptions
Lost wages from missed work
Transportation costs for doctor visits
Repair or replacement of your vehicle

These records help your car accident lawyer calculate the full extent of your losses when seeking compensation.

Step 7. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating New Jersey’s car accident laws and dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Hiring a skilled personal injury lawyer ensures you have an advocate to:

Investigate the accident thoroughly
Collect evidence and witness statements
Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
Fight for maximum compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering

Unique Example: After a head-on collision caused by a drunk driver, your attorney uncovers evidence that the driver had a history of DUIs. This strengthens your case for punitive damages in addition to compensation for your injuries.

Why Hiring an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer is Essential in New Jersey

New Jersey’s legal system can be complex, particularly for car accident claims. A car accident lawyer ensures that you meet critical deadlines, such as the state’s two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits, and builds a strong case tailored to your unique situation.

Moreover, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even for valid claims. Having legal representation levels the playing field, so you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in NJ

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions New Jersey residents have about car accidents:

Q1. What if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured?

A: Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply. A lawyer can help you navigate this process.

Q2. Can I file a claim if the crash was partially my fault?

A: Yes, under New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q3. What should I do if the other driver refuses to share information?

A: Call the police to document the incident and gather any available witness statements to strengthen your case.

Unique Examples of Steps After a Car Accident

To make this guide relatable, consider these real-world scenarios:

Shared Fault: While merging onto the Garden State Parkway near Newark, you collide with another vehicle. Both drivers claim the other was at fault. Your lawyer’s investigation into traffic camera footage clarifies liability.
Hidden Injuries: A car accident in Westfield results in lingering headaches, later diagnosed as post-concussion syndrome. Seeking medical care immediately ensures your claim reflects the injury’s true impact.

Call Team Law to File a Car Accident Claim in New Jersey

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, don’t face the aftermath alone. At Team Law, our experienced attorneys in Elizabeth, Plainfield, Westfield, and Summit are here to help.

We’ll guide you through every step of the legal process, fighting for you to receive the compensation you’re seeking for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today at 732-896-2560 for a free case evaluation and let Team Law fight for your rights. Call now and take the first step toward recovery!

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.