What To Do If You Are In An Accident In Ocean County, New Jersey
Almost everyone experiences a car accident some time or another. Whether it is the smallest of fender benders or a multicar catastrophic highway accident, a car crash will happen to almost all of us. While you could not control how other drivers behaved on the road, what you can control is what you do after the accident. There are certain tips that if followed, can make all the difference in making your life easier and maximizing potential compensation.
This is important because as those medical bills and insurance statements start piling up, you will want to have done everything you could to help your case. Compensation in a personal injury settlement can cover damages such as past and future medical bills, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, as well as any pain and suffering. If you need help, read the below tips on what to do after a car accident.
Tips After A Car Accident
Keep in mind these are general pointers and every situation is different. This is not legal advice for your case. If you want to know more, you should reach out to us at Fedele & Honschke for specific advice on New Jersey injury law.
- Take pictures or video of the accident scene. You want to document as much as you can of the accident scene. Going back later will not do you much good, as evidence can be washed away by rain, trampled on or blown away. Use your cellphone (not while you are driving) to take photos and videos. With everyone owning a cellphone or smart phone these days, the other driver will likely be doing the same.
- Hire an experienced attorney who knows New Jersey personal injury laws. You not only want a lawyer who will watch out for your best interests but one who also understands New Jersey, the injury laws and how they would apply to your case. Protect yourself with legal counsel as they will have a fiduciary duty to do everything they can to help you.
- Cooperate with police and obtain accident reports. Having an official report by a police officer can help solidify certain facts. An authority figure who is neutral is helpful in cases. Be cooperative and courteous. But do not admit any guilt as you are not obligated to.
- Do not agree to a settlement with your insurance company or any other insurance company. You may be tempted to just quickly agree to a settlement. But even your own insurance company is not looking out for your interests – they are looking out for their business interests. Take the time to seek counsel on this.
Remember, this should not be construed as legal advice but rather as general information about car accidents in New Jersey and what to do after you have been in one. Contact us online or by calling 732-504-3841 or toll-free at 888-898-1206 for information pertaining to your specific case.