What To Do After A Car Accident While Traveling For The Holidays In NJ

Side view of a red SUV damaged in a holiday car accident on a snowy New Jersey road, showing a dented door and scraped paint.

Whether you’re traveling to see friends or finally taking that family roadtrip, you will be joining the millions of commuters who hit the roads during the holiday season. Though your to-do list likely involves those last minute travel details, one thing many commuters overlook is refreshing themselves on what to do after a car accident.

While we hope that your holiday plans go smoothly, our firm has seen firsthand how many car accidents occur this time of year. In today’s blog, we’re providing a helpful refresher for what to do after a car accident while traveling for the holidays so you can protect yourself and your personal injury claim.

Pull Over Somewhere Safe (If You Can)

If you can, pull off the road or into a nearby parking lot to avoid oncoming traffic. If your car is immobilized, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and hazards, unless there is an immediate threat such as a fuel leak or fire. In these cases, exit the vehicle and move a safe distance away until police arrive. NJ law requires you to remain at the scene of an accident involving property damage and injuries. Failing to do so could lead to hit-and-run charges.

Call Law Enforcement

When you’re able to, call law enforcement. They will contain the scene, speak with the parties involved and any witnesses, get your vehicle towed to the nearest impound lot or auto body shop, and get details to generate a police report. Ask the cop when the police report will be available to you before you leave.

Exchange Driver and Witness Contact Info

At the scene, exchange information with the other driver. Focus on the “big three”: name, phone number, and insurance policy number. If you can, snap a photo of the other driver’s insurance card to ensure you have the correct information. When exchanging contact details, stick to the facts. Don’t admit fault, as you need to wait until the investigation is complete.

Additionally, if any witnesses saw the accident, get their contact info, as well. Their statements can be used to corroborate your story.

Take Photos of the Scene and Grab Dashcam Footage

Before the scene is cleared, be sure to take photos and/or video of the damage to the vehicles, your visible injuries, and other details relevant to your case. It’s always good to include additional photos of the weather conditions, nearby businesses that have surveillance footage, stop lights, road signs, skid marks, and construction zones. Together, these photos and videos can help your legal team piece together what happened.

Furthermore, if you have a dashcam in your vehicle, be sure to unload the memory card before it’s towed. This can provide clear-cut evidence into how the accident occurred.

Remove Personal Items From the Car

If you’re able to, remove personal items, including your insurance card and registration, from the vehicle before it’s towed. It’s not always easy to access these things once your vehicle is at the tow lot.

Get Seen by a Doctor

Seek medical care as soon as you can following the accident. Many injuries, including concussions, herniated discs, and whiplash require thorough physical examination and imaging to diagnose. Prompt medical care ensures your physical well-being, and helps connect your injuries to the collision.

Notify Your Insurance Company of the Accident

Even if the other driver was responsible for the accident, you still need to report it to your insurance company. However, be mindful of your communication with them. Even though you pay for their services, insurance companies are focused on protecting their bottom line, not your right to compensation. Stick to the facts and let your attorney handle follow up conversations.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

The aftermath of a car accident is often overwhelming. Between new injuries, sudden missed time off work and an adjustment to your daily schedule, there’s frankly too many things on your plate to juggle at once. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the accident, determine liability, negotiate with the insurance company, and if necessary, take your case to court so you get the money you’re owed.

Don’t wait. If you were injured in a car accident in New Jersey, the personal injury attorneys at Drazin and Warshaw can help.

Car Accident FAQ

How do I access my police report after a car accident in New Jersey?

Typically, the police officer will give you a slip of paper with information related to the police report, including where to access it online and when while at the scene of the accident. However, if you still need help, you can make a formal request with the Division of State Police, Criminal Justice Records Bureau.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, you have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this window means losing out on your right to compensation.

I need money now…should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement?

No. Insurance companies are focused on protecting their bottom line, not your injuries or fairly compensating you. Most insurance companies will issue a lowball offer in hopes you’ll take the money. To maximize your compensation and combat these common tactics, it’s recommended you hire a personal injury attorney to negotiate on your behalf.

Contact Drazin and Warshaw to File a Personal Injury Claim Following a Car Accident in New Jersey

Were you injured in a car accident while traveling for the holidays? You don’t have to face the path forward alone. If medical bills are piling up and you have questions about what to do next, the personal injury lawyers at Drazin and Warshaw can provide guidance. Representing clients throughout New Jersey, including Hazlet, West Orange, and Rahway, we will thoroughly investigate your accident and negotiate with insurers to maximize your compensation.

Don’t wait another day. Call Drazin and Warshaw today at 732-333-8141 or submit our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. You have rights. We’re here to protect 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.