Car accidents are stressful and confusing events, and it’s wise to be prepared beforehand. Knowing what information to collect after a collision can protect you legally and financially.
An automobile accident can be a very scary experience, whether you are physically injured or not. In the chaos of the moment, it may be difficult to rely on clear thinking to guide how best to proceed. That is why taking preemptive steps to educate yourself about necessary post-accident procedures in the case of a New Jersey auto collision can legally and financially benefit you in the future, let alone potentially save a life. If you have been injured in a motorist accident on New Jersey roadways, the law firm of Cohen & Riechelson can help you recover full financial damages for your injuries. Contact us at (609) 528-2596 to set up a free consultation regarding your accident case today.
Car Accident Information Exchange: Get the Details You Need
First of all, New Jersey law dictates that motorists involved in an automobile accident are required to provide their driving information to other involved motorists and law enforcement. This information includes name, address, driver’s license, and registration certificate. New Jersey Revised Statutes § 39:4-129 outlines required procedures following an accident and the legal and financial consequences of not complying with these legal guidelines.
In addition to the legal importance of exchanging information with involved motorists in an auto accident, having other drivers’ full information can be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action. Below is a full breakdown of information to get from each involved driver at the scene, going beyond what is legally required in New Jersey, so that you have the best chance of a favorable outcome in a personal injury claim.
Non-Negotiables for Every New Jersey Driver Swapping Information after an Auto Accident
There are many key pieces of information to request from other parties involved in an auto accident, regardless of who was responsible for causing it:
- Driver Information:
- Full name
- Contact information, including their phone number, mailing address, and email address
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle Information:
- Automobile make, model, and year
- License plate number
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Accident Details:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Description of the accident, as succinct and objective as possible
- Road and weather conditions
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- Additional Information to Gather (if possible):
- Witness Information:
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
- Brief statements from witnesses about what they saw
- Witness Information:
- Police Information:
- Name and badge number of the responding officer
- Police report number
Be Prepared
Download and Print Your Accident Information Sheet
Important Reminders When Exchanging Details at an Accident Scene
From mannerisms to methods, there are some important things to keep in mind when you are exchanging information with other motorists at the scene of an auto accident. First of all, remain calm and polite. Everyone is dealing with frazzled nerves and potentially physical pain. Your insurance company and legal representation will ensure that you receive full compensation for accident injuries and losses; lashing out at others at the scene won’t help. Instead, focus on gathering as much detailed information about the accident and conditions as possible. Use your phone or a pen and paper to record the above information. If possible, take photos, both close-ups and landscapes. Only do this if it is safe to approach vehicles, etc!
As you exchange information with others, do not admit fault, even if you were clearly partially or fully responsible. Again, this will be determined as the result of an insurance investigation. The other party’s insurance company would use your admission of fault, even if in fact you were not at fault, to reduce their settlement offer. Contact your insurance company and consult with an attorney as soon as your immediate medical needs have been met. New Jersey has a no-fault insurance system, so your insurance company will cover immediate medical expenses, even if you weren’t at fault. An experienced car accident attorney at Cohen & Riechelson will help you navigate the post-accident procedures and get you on your way to recovering full financial damages from the responsible party’s insurance company, while you concentrate on your health and well-being.
Reporting the Accident to Authorities is a Must
It is important to file a police report after an accident so that there is documentation of the accident’s details, for use in the personal injury settlement process by your insurance company and personal injury attorney. Additionally, New Jersey legally requires that motorists file a police report when accidents involve injuries or significant property damage of over $500. This police report must be filed within 10 days of the accident.
Beyond the time limit to file a police report, there is also a time limit for filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey. An individual who is injured in an accident must file a personal injury claim within two years of the accident, or the claim may not be honored.
Discuss Your Case with a Talented NJ Car Accident Lawyer Now
When it comes to auto accidents, it is important to have the legal support of a qualified personal injury attorney. There are many moving pieces involved in an injury claim or lawsuit, many of which are time sensitive and difficult to navigate when you are recovering from injury. Our seasoned car accident lawyers at Cohen & Riechelson represent you to communicate with the other party’s insurance company, gather appropriate documentation regarding associated medical expenses and lost wages, and build a strong case for full financial payout. We will also take your case to court if the other party’s insurance does not offer a settlement figure that honors the extent of your economic and non-economic damages.
In over 50 years of practice, our attorneys have successfully represented Princeton, Lawrence, Robbinsville, Hamilton, Trenton, Ewing, East Windsor, Lambertville, and other New Jersey accident victims, and we are ready to help get you back on your feet. Contact us today at (609) 528-2596 for a free consultation to discuss your claim.
