Severe car accident injuries require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, and they can have a profound impact on a victim’s quality of life. Many times, these injuries are the result of negligence or wrongdoing on the part of another person or entity.
The leading causes for car crashes include road congestion, distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, stress, poor vehicle maintenance, fatigue, road rage, and reckless driving.
An experienced Jersey City car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of recovering compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other losses.
Useful tips that can help you stay safe
The useful tips that can help you stay safe on Jersey City roads include:
- If travelling long distances, plan your travel ahead of time. Check the weather forecast, map out your route, and consider alternate routes. Leave early to avoid unexpected delays
- Check the engine oil, and air in the tires
- Make sure you are well-rested. Avoid driving if you haven’t had enough sleep or are feeling tired
- Drive distraction-free by putting away your cell phone. Distractions while driving can be hazardous, especially during heavy traffic periods. Avoid using your cell phone, eating, or engaging in activities that take your eyes off the road or your hands off the steering wheel. If you need to use your phone for navigation, use a hands-free device or pull over to a safe location
- Do not exceed the speed limit and pay attention to pedestrians and other road users
- Practice defensive driving techniques
- Stay alert, maintain a safe following distance, and anticipate other drivers’ actions. Be patient and avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or excessive speeding
- Designate a sober driver or arrange alternative transportation if you plan to drink
- Always wear a seat belt while driving
- Protect vulnerable passengers and check the manufacturer’s instructions before installing a child’s safety seat
- Understand your vehicle’s safety systems
The Critical Steps To Take After A Car Accident
It is essential to know what to do if you find yourself in an auto accident in Jersey City. The measures you must take after a car accident include:
- If you have suffered injuries, call 911. If you’re severely injured, try not to move, and wait for emergency services to arrive
- If your car is safe to drive, pull it to the side of the road. Turn off your engine, and turn on your hazard lights
Note: According to the New Jersey laws, you are required you to stay at the accident scene and exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident
- The information drivers should exchange after an accident is their full name and contact information, insurance company and policy number, driver’s license and license plate number, the type, color, and model of vehicle, and the location of the accident
- You should avoid discussing fault when going over the facts with the other driver
- Whether you are involved in a minor fender-bender or a major collision, report the accident to the police
- Get the name and badge number of all responding police officers when they arrive. Ask the police officers present how and where you can obtain a copy of the accident report
- Document the accident thoroughly by taking photographs of your vehicle and the other car/s from different angles, showing the damage done to all cars. If there were any witnesses to the accident, take down their names and their contact information
- If the police can’t come to the scene of the accident, go to the nearest police station and complete a report yourself
- Seek prompt medical attention to ensure fast, effective treatment. A physician or a medical care facility can detect injuries before they have a chance to progress
Every insurance company in its “What To Do After A Car Accident” recommends that you call your insurance provider while you’re at the scene or report your claim using your insurer’s mobile app if they have one.
While your policy requires you to notify your insurer, speaking with a personal injury lawyer beforehand can help you understand your rights and how to protect your interests during that conversation.” This advises consultation without instructing a delay that could prejudice the potential client’s claim.You could potentially handle your case on your own, but keep in mind that the legal system is incredibly challenging to navigate.
How Can An Accident Lawyer Help?
A lawyer can perform the following tasks on your behalf while you focus on your rehabilitation and recovery:
- Explain to you how the accident affects your legal rights
- Help you understand complicated legal procedures and interpret medical and insurance jargon
- Get you through the maze of paperwork required in filing a claim. There are specific time limits, restrictions, and rules for filing a personal injury claim in New Jersey. The lawyer will ensure that your claim is presented at the earliest per the Statute of Limitations prevailing in the state, which is two years from the date of the accident or knowledge of injury
- Help you decide your future course of action
- Rather than relying on what the insurance adjusters think you should get, your lawyer will investigate your accident, determine liability, and calculate the value of your claim based on your economic and non-economic damages
Suffering From Car Accident Injuries? Schedule a Consultation
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence in Jersey City or anywhere in New Jersey, you may be eligible to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit for damages. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and potentially secure fair and just compensation. Schedule a free and confidential case consultation.