Key Takeaways
- Getting to safety and calling 911 is the most critical first step after a crash.
- Photos, witness names, and other evidence can protect your claim if you decide to pursue one later.
- A South Jersey car accident lawyer can push back when an insurance adjuster lowballs a claim or tries to rush a settlement before the full cost of an injury is clear.
After a car accident in South Jersey, the right first steps can protect your health and the ability to recover damages later. Moving to a safe spot, calling 911, and exchanging information with the other driver come first, followed by photos of the scene and a doctor visit, even when injuries seem minor. Working through a car accident checklist, NJ drivers can make sure nothing gets missed once the shock wears off.
Stay Safe and Document the Scene
After a collision on a busy road like Route 70 or the Garden State Parkway, check yourself and any passengers for injuries, then move your vehicle out of traffic if it is safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911, since police involvement is required when injuries or damage occur. While waiting for police, photograph both vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
What to Exchange — and What Never to Say
Exchange names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance information, vehicle registration details, and license plate numbers with the other driver. While talking with the other driver, police, or insurance companies, avoid saying you are sorry or admitting fault, because those words can affect a claim later, even if you did nothing wrong.
Reporting Requirements and Seeing a Doctor
The New Jersey Department of Transportation processes about 320,000 crash reports each year, and New Jersey law requires drivers to report any accident causing injury, death, or property damage over $500 to police as quickly as possible. Residents in Manasquan, Brick, and nearby Monmouth and Ocean County towns must follow this same rule no matter how minor a crash may seem. Seeing a doctor promptly after the crash matters too, since injuries like whiplash do not always show symptoms right away.
When to Call a Car Accident Lawyer
South Jersey attorneys often offer free consultations, and we recommend getting in touch as soon as possible after a crash. Once the scene clears and you have seen a doctor, insurance companies may start calling within days, sometimes while you are still sorting out medical care. Getting the process started early is critical if you want to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in New Jersey?
In most cases, New Jersey law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, so again, it helps to act promptly.
Do I Need a Police Report if the Damage Looks Minor?
Yes, a police report is required whenever an accident causes injury, death, or more than $500 in property damage. Even minor-looking damage can exceed that amount once repair costs are calculated.
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up After Filing a Claim?
Rates can rise after a claim, though the amount depends on your insurer and whether you were at fault. A car accident lawyer South Jersey residents trust can clarify how a claim might affect your policy before you decide to move forward.
Contact Our South Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC
After a motor vehicle crash, do not hesitate to contact our South Jersey car accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC. Call 732-920-8383 or complete our online form today for a free consultation. We have offices in Manasquan and Brick, NJ, and serve clients in the surrounding area.