Being involved in a road accident is a terrifying experience. Aside from needing to take some time off from work to recover from your injuries, you also need to think about how you can pay your medical bills.
To help provide you with essential guidance on this unfortunate incident, here are five immediate steps you need to take after your car crash.
Assess your condition and dial 911
The first thing you need to do after an accident is to assess yourself for signs of injuries or trauma. While it is common to feel shocked or scared, you must prioritize your safety by calling 911 to ask for urgent help.
Call the police
Under New Jersey car crash reporting laws, any accident that results in an injury, death or over $500 in property damage must be reported to the local authorities.
Once the police arrive at the scene, they will start their investigation by interviewing you and the other party to request information about the incident. Be cooperative and do not forget to ask for their official report’s case number.
Keep in mind that while basic crash reports are a public record, it can take days before your investigation report gets completed and uploaded into the State of New Jersey’s online portal.
Go to the hospital
After cooperating with the police and exchanging contact details with the other party, you need to travel to the nearest hospital or ask the paramedics to take you instead. By not delaying seeking medical care for your crash injuries, you prioritize your health and your well-being.
Collect evidence
After receiving treatment at the hospital and resting at home, you need to return to the scene to gather evidence. You may take this step on your own or seek the help of a lawyer. With their guidance, they can assess your case, collect proof of the crash and file your PIP benefit claim’s necessary paperwork.
Notify your insurance company
Once you collect enough evidence for your claim, you need to inform your insurance company about the accident. Keep your discussions factual but brief. If you have a lawyer, they can speak with them on your behalf and ensure that your legal rights remain protected.
While the aftermath of the crash may leave you feeling vulnerable, you can avoid the common mistakes that most people make after a traffic accident by following the steps listed above. This not only safeguards your health but also protects your right to receive fair compensation for your injuries and lost wages.