A car accident can turn a normal day upside down in seconds. One moment you are driving through Bergen County, and the next you are on the side of the road, wondering what just happened. It is okay to feel shaken, but the decisions you make in the hours that follow are critical for protecting your legal rights.
Assess the situation and call 911
In New Jersey, you must notify law enforcement as soon as possible if a crash results in injury or death. If property damage appears to exceed $500, the law also requires a formal written report to the appropriate police agency.
Having a local, county, or state officer document the scene is the best way to secure an official record, which becomes key evidence for your insurance claim.
While you wait for help to arrive:
- Document the scene: Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details.
- Identify witnesses: Collect contact information from anyone who saw the collision.
If a police officer does not investigate the scene, you must submit a written self-reporting crash report (Form SR-1) to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) within 10 days.
Watch what you say
In the immediate aftermath of a motor vehicle collision, emotions run high. Be cautious with your words; in New Jersey, the rule of “comparative negligence” means if you are found even partially at fault, your financial recovery can be reduced. An offhand remark like “I was distracted” can be used to shift a percentage of the blame onto you. Stick to the objective facts.
Seek medical attention and contact your insurer
Adrenaline often masks injuries like whiplash or concussions. A medical evaluation within 24 hours can help document your injuries and connect them to the accident.
New Jersey follows a no-fault system, so drivers typically rely on their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage to pay for medical care after a crash, regardless of fault. These benefits may also include work-loss coverage, depending on your policy, and are subject to coverage limits, exclusions, and specific terms.
In some situations, such as when an injury meets certain legal thresholds, you may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver outside the no-fault system.
Report the accident to your insurer promptly but stick to the basic facts.
Consult a personal injury attorney
Insurance companies often follow up quickly, sometimes with a settlement offer before you fully understand your injuries. Consulting a personal injury attorney early gives you a clearer picture of your options before you agree to anything.
