Just Had a Car Accident in New Jersey? Here’s What to Do First

May 7, 2025

A car accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Amid the chaos, it’s crucial to take specific steps to protect your legal rights and lay the foundation for a strong car accident claim. Whether you’re dealing with minor injuries or significant damages, knowing what to do after a car accident can make all the difference in securing fair compensation.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you preserve evidence and ensure you’re in the best possible position to pursue justice.

1. Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

Immediately after a car accident, your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. If possible, move to a safe location, such as the side of the road, and call 911 to report the accident. New Jersey law requires drivers to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500.

Why this matters:

Filing an official police report creates a vital piece of evidence for your car accident claim.
Emergency responders can assess and treat injuries, ensuring everyone’s health and safety.
When speaking to law enforcement, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault. Let the investigation determine responsibility.

2. Document the Scene Thoroughly

Preserving evidence is critical for protecting your legal rights after a car accident. Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the accident scene, ensuring you capture as much detail as possible.

What to document:

Vehicle damage from multiple angles.
Skid marks, debris, and road conditions.
Traffic signs, signals, and surrounding areas.
Visible injuries to yourself or others.

Additionally, jot down important details such as the date, time, and location of the accident. These records can play a pivotal role in establishing liability and supporting your car accident claim.

3. Exchange Information with Other Parties

Gathering contact and insurance information from all parties involved is essential. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as this could be misconstrued as an admission of liability.

Information to collect:

Names, phone numbers, and addresses of drivers and passengers.
Insurance company names and policy numbers.
Driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers.

If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. Witness testimony can strengthen your case and provide additional perspectives on what happened.

4. Get Checked by a Doctor Without Delay

Even if you don’t notice any immediate injuries, it’s vital to visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible after the accident. Certain injuries, like whiplash, concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue injuries, may not present symptoms right away but can become serious if left untreated. Seeking prompt medical care ensures your well-being and establishes a medical record linking your injuries to the accident.

Why this step is important:

Detailed medical records provide essential proof of your injuries for your car accident claim.
Postponing medical care can give insurance companies grounds to question the severity or cause of your injuries.
Adhere to your doctor’s treatment plan, and keep copies of all medical documents, bills, and related expenses. These records will be invaluable if you need to pursue compensation for your injuries.

5. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures. Consulting a personal injury lawyer experienced with car accident claims ensures your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively.

What a lawyer can do for you:

Evaluate the strength of your car accident claim and guide you through the process.
Handle communication with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers or bad-faith tactics.
Collect and present evidence to build a compelling case.
Represent you in negotiations or court proceedings to advocate for fair compensation.

Having a legal advocate on your side gives you peace of mind and significantly improves your chances of a successful outcome.

Key Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident

While it’s essential to take the right steps, avoiding common pitfalls is equally important. Here are some mistakes that could jeopardize your car accident claim:

Not Reporting the Accident: Failing to notify the police or file a report can weaken your case. Not having an official report could make it difficult to establish fault.
Admitting Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility. Even a simple apology could be construed as an admission of liability.
Delaying Medical Treatment: Waiting to see a doctor can raise doubts about the severity of your injuries. Insurance companies may argue that the delay suggests your injuries weren’t serious.
Accepting Quick Settlements: Insurance companies may offer low initial settlements that don’t cover all your expenses. You might be settling for less than you deserve.
Not Seeking Legal Help: Trying to handle the case on your own can lead to missed opportunities for compensation. A lawyer can help ensure you’re not taken advantage of and protect your legal rights.

By steering clear of these errors, you can protect your legal rights and strengthen your case.

Understanding Your Legal Rights in New Jersey

New Jersey operates under a “no-fault” insurance system, which means your own insurance policy will cover medical expenses and certain losses regardless of who caused the accident. That said, you may still pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if your injuries meet the threshold for a serious injury, such as permanent disability or significant scarring.

Important Note: If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can help ensure you receive compensation for damages and medical bills when the other driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover the costs.

An experienced car accident lawyer at Bramnick Law can help you determine whether you’re eligible to file a claim beyond your no-fault coverage and ensure you understand your rights under New Jersey law.

The Role of Evidence in Building a Strong Case

A successful car accident claim relies heavily on the quality and quantity of evidence. Here’s how the evidence you gather can impact your case:

Photos and Videos: Visual documentation paints a clear picture of the accident scene and damages.
Medical Records: Provide proof of injuries and their connection to the accident.
Police Reports: Offer an official account of the incident and may include details about fault.
Witness Statements: Corroborate your version of events and provide additional insights.

Working with a car accident lawyer ensures this evidence is collected, preserved, and presented effectively to maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident

Recovering from a car accident is challenging, but taking the right steps can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Whether you’re asking, “What to do after a car accident to protect my rights?” or looking to strengthen your claim, following this guide can help.

Secure Your Future with a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer at Bramnick Law in New Jersey

A car accident can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Bramnick Law, our experienced car accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting your legal rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today at 866-845-5571 for a consultation and take the first step toward justice. We proudly serve clients in Union County, Scotch Plains, Newark, and throughout New Jersey. Your rights matter – Let us fight for them!

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.