No matter how careful of a driver you are, you could find yourself in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence or fault. If you do find yourself involved in a crash in Jersey City—or anywhere else, there are several important steps you should take to ensure a good outcome. And, as always—if you are injured or your property is damaged due to someone else’s actions, finding a personal injury lawyer should be near the top of your list. The sooner you have a car accident attorney working on your claim, the more likely it is that you’ll be fairly compensated.
Whether you’ve been involved in a fender bender or a more serious impact, it’s important to protect yourself legally in the event of any auto accident. Call Greenberg & Walden, LLC today for a consultation.
Get to a Safe Place and Call Emergency Services
While you don’t want to inadvertently destroy evidence of who was at fault, it’s also important that you get out of harm’s way. If your car is still functioning, turn on your hazard lights and pull over to the shoulder. Contact emergency services right away, especially if you or anyone else is injured. If you do not feel it’s safe to move the vehicle, be sure to let emergency services know that as well.
Exchange Insurance Information
Exchange car insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident. Both insurance companies will need to contact one another to negotiate who will pay for the damages.
Remember, insurance companies want to pay out the least amount they can get away with, and they’ll pressure you into accepting a settlement quickly—even your own insurance agent will have this goal in mind. Have an aggressive, dedicated attorney on your side. Contact Greenberg & Walden, LLC and protect your right to fair compensation.
File a Police Report
We know that filing a police report can seem like a hassle, but it’s always best to do so. If you do, don’t give your opinions—state only what you absolutely know to have happened, and don’t admit fault. In some cases, it may be better to file a report after the fact; if you’re unsure, call your attorney first.
Report the Accident to the DMV or BMV
In some states, it’s necessary to contact the DMV or BMV if you’ve been in an accident. Even if it’s not legally required in your state, a report can help preserve evidence which could be necessary for future suits. This is another area that you might wish to consult with your attorney about prior to taking action.
Even a seemingly minor accident can have devastating financial consequences that might not be apparent at the scene of the accident. That’s why it’s important to retain a New Jersey personal injury lawyer as soon as possible, even if you think the outcome is obvious. Schedule a consultation with Greenberg & Walden, LLC.
Don’t Make Small Talk
Tensions run high after an accident, and as long as your car is still safe, it’s best to simply remain in your vehicle and keep communication to simply exchanging insurance information and answering the questions posed by police. You should limit conversation with the other drivers as much as possible. One exception to staying in your vehicle is documenting damages and getting witness contact information, as explained below.
Document Damage and Witnesses
Take as many photos of your vehicle and the other vehicles as possible, to fully document any damage. If there are witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information to pass on to your attorney and/or the police. Eyewitness testimony can help untangle a “he-said-she-said” situation in the courtroom.
The sooner you contact Greenberg & Walden, LLC, the sooner your attorney will be able to conduct their own investigation of the car crash, and preserve the evidence that proves you were not at fault. Call us today for a free consultation!
Keep Your Cool
Accidents are frightening. People are often panicked, angry, afraid, or simply under extreme stress. You’re likely to feel overwhelmed, and afraid that you said or did the wrong thing in the aftermath of the accident. It’s not the end of the world. Consult with your attorney and let them know everything you remember.
