Being involved in a car accident can be traumatic and overwhelming. The actions you take immediately after the incident can make a significant difference in your ability to receive fair compensation and protect your legal rights. In New Jersey, there are certain things you should avoid in order to ensure that you do not hurt your case. Here are the key things to avoid doing after a car accident:
- Don’t Leave the Scene
One of the greatest mistakes you can make is to leave the accident scene. In New Jersey, it is prohibited to leave an accident scene, especially when the accident resulted in injuries or significant property damage. When you do so, you may face severe legal consequences, including criminal charges. Always stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and gives you permission to leave.
- Don’t Admit Fault
Even if you think you may be partially to blame for the accident, avoid making any admission of fault at the scene. Statements like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be interpreted as an admission of guilt and can be used against you in court. Instead, provide the police and your insurance company with factual information without speculation regarding fault.
- Avoid Delaying Medical Treatment
It is essential to seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries are not immediately observable and can aggravate over time. Not only will delaying medical treatment threaten your health, but it will also impact your ability to claim compensation. Insurance companies will argue that your injuries are not so severe or were caused by something other than the accident in a situation where you experienced significant delays to seek treatment.
- Forget Not to Call the Police
Failing to report the accident to the police is a common mistake. A police report serves as an official record of the accident and is critical for any subsequent legal or insurance claims. When the police arrive, provide them with accurate information and ensure that a report is filed. Obtain a copy of the report for your records.
- Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurer
Insurance companies may request that you provide a recorded statement shortly after the accident. It would be best not to provide a recorded statement without first contacting your attorney. Insurance adjusters will generally ask questions that will cause you to say things that may inadvertently admit you were at fault or that your injuries are not severe. Refuse to provide a recorded statement until such time that you have an attorney representing you.
- Do Not Fail to Gather Evidence
Gather evidence immediately after the accident, should you be physically fit to do so. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and visible injuries. If you can, get contact information from eyewitnesses and the other parties. This evidence could be paramount in proving fault and the extent of your damages.
- Do not Post on Social Media
In this era of social media, it can be tempting to post details of the accident online. Still, posting about the accident, the injuries you have sustained, or the recovery process can only harm your case. Insurance companies and opposing legal teams will conduct social media searches to obtain information that can be used against you. It is therefore important that you do not post any information related to the accident until the conclusion of your case.
- Do Not Sign Documents Without Legal Counsel
You may be asked to sign various documents after an accident, such as medical releases or settlement agreements. It is extremely important that you do not sign these until you have consulted with an attorney. The documents may contain several clauses that reduce the compensation you deserve or limit your rights.
- Do Not Forget the Importance of Legal Representation
Sometimes, the legal aftermath of an accident can be complex and tricky to navigate. An experienced car accident attorney can make a world of difference. A good attorney helps you know your rights, negotiates with insurance companies, and ensures that you are justly compensated.
Becoming a victim of a car accident in New Jersey can really change your life. By not falling into these common mistakes, your legal rights will be upheld more effectively, and chances of compensation will be improved. Remember these steps: stay at the scene, do not claim fault, quickly seek medical attention, and seek advice from an attorney about how to navigate through this process. It is through these steps that you will be able to follow the aftermath of an accident appropriately and have your interests protected.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible. The team at Afonso & Afonso, LLC is here to help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Phone: 908-354-9094
Address: 544 Elizabeth Avenue, Elizabeth. NJ 07206
Directions to Our Office: Our office is conveniently located in Elizabeth, NJ and our satellite office in Newark NJ. We are easily accessible by car and public transportation. For detailed directions, please visit our Contact Us page.
