Are you wondering what to do after a car accident in New Jersey? This step by step guide will outline everything you need to know! Read on to learn how to deal with your automobile accident if you live in NJ and reach out to H&S Law Group for more information on the topic!
What To Do After A Car Accident In New Jersey
Being involved in a car accident is stressful, confusing, and often overwhelming—especially in the moments and days that follow. In New Jersey, specific laws and insurance rules can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation for injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses. Knowing exactly what to do after a car accident in New Jersey can protect your health, your legal rights, and your financial future.
This comprehensive, step-by-step guide is written for New Jersey drivers and accident victims. It explains what to do at the scene, in the days after, and before speaking with insurance companies or accepting a settlement.
If you or a loved one were injured in a New Jersey car accident, the attorneys at H&S Law Group help accident victims throughout Parsippany, Morris County, and across New Jersey understand their rights and pursue fair compensation.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911 Immediately
Your first priority after a car accident is safety and medical care.
What to do:
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt, even if injuries seem minor
- Request both police and medical assistance
In New Jersey, calling the police is critical when:
- Someone is injured or killed
- Vehicles are disabled
- There is significant property damage
Even minor accidents can cause injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma that may not appear right away.
Do not refuse medical attention at the scene. Accepting an evaluation creates an early medical record linking your injuries to the crash.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If vehicles are operable and it is safe to do so:
- Move cars out of traffic
- Turn on hazard lights
- Use cones or flares if available
If the accident is serious or vehicles cannot be moved, stay where you are and wait for emergency responders.
Step 3: Cooperate With Police — But Be Careful What You Say
When police arrive, they will:
- Secure the scene
- Interview drivers and witnesses
- Create an official police accident report
Important tips:
- Be polite and cooperative
- Provide factual information only
- Do not admit fault or speculate about what happened
- Avoid statements like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see them”
Fault is determined later through investigation—not at the roadside.
Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
If you are physically able, collect as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene.
Information to gather:
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all drivers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- License plate numbers
Take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage from multiple angles
- The accident scene
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Traffic signs and signals
- Visible injuries
Get witness information:
- Names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident
This evidence can be crucial in proving fault and strengthening your injury claim.
Step 5: Seek Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible
Even if you feel “okay,” see a doctor within 24–72 hours of the accident.
Why this matters:
- Some injuries have delayed symptoms
- Medical records establish a direct link between the crash and your injuries
- Delaying care can hurt your insurance claim
Common delayed injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back and neck injuries
Follow all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments.
Step 6: Understand New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance System
New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning:
- Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers medical bills
- Coverage applies regardless of fault
PIP typically covers:
- Medical treatment
- Hospital visits
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages (up to policy limits)
PIP does NOT cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Full lost income beyond policy limits
These damages may be recovered through a personal injury claim, depending on your policy.
Step 7: Know Your Right to Sue Under New Jersey Law
Your ability to file a lawsuit depends on whether you chose:
1. Limited Right to Sue
- Lower insurance premiums
- Can only sue for serious injuries (e.g., permanent injury, disfigurement)
2. Unlimited Right to Sue
- Higher premiums
- Can sue for pain and suffering regardless of injury severity
An experienced New Jersey car accident attorney can review your policy and explain your options.
Step 8: Notify Your Insurance Company — Carefully
You should report the accident to your insurer promptly, but be cautious.
What to do:
- Stick to basic facts (date, location, vehicles involved)
- Do not give recorded statements without legal advice
- Avoid guessing or speculating
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Even your own insurer may look for ways to reduce what they pay.
Step 9: Do NOT Accept a Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often offer fast settlements—especially when injuries are involved.
Why this is risky:
- You may not know the full extent of your injuries
- Future medical treatment may be required
- Once you accept, you cannot reopen the claim
Always speak with a qualified car accident lawyer before accepting any settlement.
Step 10: Document Everything
Strong documentation can make or break your case.
Keep records of:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Prescription costs
- Lost wages and missed work
- Repair estimates
- Pain levels and daily limitations
Step 11: Be Mindful of Social Media
Insurance companies monitor social media accounts.
Avoid:
- Posting photos or videos of yourself
- Discussing the accident online
- Commenting on your physical condition
Even innocent posts can be used to argue that you are not seriously injured.
Step 12: Contact a New Jersey Car Accident Attorney
Car accident claims can become complex quickly—especially when injuries, disputed fault, or insurance limitations are involved.
A car accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the crash
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Determine all available compensation
- Protect you from unfair settlement tactics
- File a lawsuit if necessary
New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims. Waiting too long can permanently bar your case.
Common Questions After a New Jersey Car Accident
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in NJ?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
You may still recover compensation through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your policy.
What if I was partially at fault?
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault, though compensation may be reduced.
Why Legal Guidance Matters After a Car Accident
Car accident victims often underestimate:
- The long-term cost of injuries
- The complexity of New Jersey insurance law
- How aggressively insurers protect their profits
Having the right legal advocate can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Speak With H&S Law Group Today
If you were injured in a car accident in New Jersey, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. H&S Law Group provides experienced, client-focused representation for accident victims throughout Parsippany, Morris County, and beyond.
We can help you:
- Understand your rights
- Deal with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation
📍 1719 NJ-10, Suite 224, Parsippany, NJ 07054
📞 Contact H&S Law Group today to schedule a consultation.
We hope you have a better understanding of what to do after a car accident in New Jersey and we hope that this blog post helped!