A car accident can happen in seconds. What you do afterward, however, can affect your health, your insurance claim, and your ability to pursue compensation for your injuries.

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, here are some important steps to consider.

1. Get to a Safe Location

If you are able to move safely, get yourself and your passengers away from traffic. Call 911 if anyone is injured or if the accident creates a danger for other motorists.

Do not put yourself at additional risk simply to photograph the accident scene.

2. Call the Police

A police report can become an important piece of evidence in an automobile accident claim.

When speaking with the responding officer, describe what happened as accurately as possible. Do not guess about things you do not remember.

3. Exchange Information

Obtain the other driver’s:

• Name
• Address
• Telephone number
• Driver’s license information
• Insurance company
• Policy information
• Vehicle information

If there were witnesses, obtain their contact information if possible.

4. Take Photographs

If you are physically able, photograph the vehicles, the roadway, traffic signs, traffic signals, debris, visible injuries, and anything else that may help document what happened.

Vehicle damage can sometimes help reconstruct the mechanics of an accident.

5. Get Medical Attention

Some injuries are obvious immediately. Others may not become apparent until hours or even days later.

If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, numbness, or other symptoms, seek appropriate medical attention.

Keep records of your treatment, medical bills, prescriptions, diagnostic testing, and appointments.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

You should notify your own insurance company about the accident as required by your policy.

New Jersey automobile insurance can be complicated. Depending on the policies involved, an accident may involve PIP, liability coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, and different rights to pursue compensation for pain and suffering.

7. Be Careful About Recorded Statements

You may receive a call from an insurance adjuster shortly after the accident.

You should be truthful, but you should also understand exactly what information is being requested and why. If you suffered significant injuries, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement concerning the accident or your injuries.

8. Do Not Rush Into a Settlement

An insurance company may make an early settlement offer.

Before accepting it, consider whether you know the full extent of your injuries and whether additional treatment may be necessary.

A settlement should not be evaluated solely by comparing the amount of the offer with your current medical bills.

Your injuries may affect your ability to work, participate in activities, and live your normal life.

When Should You Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer?

You may want to speak with an attorney if you suffered a significant injury, required hospitalization or surgery, missed work, are facing substantial medical treatment, or the insurance company is disputing responsibility.

At Morano Law Firm, we represent injured people throughout New Jersey.

If you or a family member has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, contact Morano Law Firm at 201-598-5019 to discuss the circumstances of your accident and your legal options.