With more cars on the road than ever and even more things now to distract drivers, auto accidents are anything but a rare event in the state of New Jersey. In 2008 alone there were 302,953 accidents in the state. While many of these accidents may have been the typical “fender benders”, more than 22 percent of these accidents resulted in injuries for either the driver or the passengers of the vehicles
It is unfortunate that those who follow the traffic laws have to suffer due to the reckless behavior of another person behind the wheel. When these types of auto accidents occur, it is imperative that you contact an attorney who has experience in dealing with personal injury cases that resulted from a car crash. At the law firm of BagolieFriedman, we understand the frustration that our clients go through when they are involved in a crash, often worrying about medical bills, missing work, dealing with the insurance companies, and how to provide for their loved ones. But with us at your side, there is no need to worry about anything. Our auto accident attorneys have the knowledge and experience in going after and getting the maximum compensation that is owed to their clients, regardless if it’s an insurance company or the driver at fault they have to go after.
In Case of an Auto Accident
Buckle
Up
Always wear your seatbelt. It is the law. Make sure that any report
(police, medical, etc.) reflects this fact.
Stop Immediately
New Jersey law requires you to stop your vehicle at the accident
scene when it involves personal injury, death or property damage.
Assist the Injured
If someone is injured, call 911. If possible, and only if it is
safe to do so, try to warn oncoming vehicles, so as to avoid further
accidents.
Call a Police Officer
Call the police and cooperate with the investigating officer. Always
get the police report number. If the police decide not to come to
the scene or not to make out a report, file a police counter report
within 24 hours of the accident. Again, get the police report number.
Exchange Information
Always identify yourself and exchange insurance information with
the other driver. Get the name of the other driver’s insurance
company and policy number, as well as the name and telephone number
of the other driver’s insurance agent.
Be Cautious
Do not admit fault, discuss opinions or make any statements to the
other driver. Give no statements, oral or written, to anyone except
the police officer investigating your accident. Anything you say
may be used against you later by the other driver’s insurance
company. Keep your accident notes and information to yourself.
Record Witnesses/Take Notes
Write down the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of anyone
who witnessed the accident. The witnesses may have important information
about the incident which may help your case, especially if the other
driver later accuses you of causing the accident. Keep a diary of
all significant details and physical evidence,
including position of the cars and length of the skid marks. This
will become useful when your case is ready to move to trial or during
settlement discussions. Make a list of all damaged property, in
addition to your bodily injuries. Take photographs of damages and
injuries. Keep track of all doctor visits, prescriptions, contacts
with insurance companies/adjusters, how you feel from day to day
and your lack of capabilities since the accident.
See a Doctor
Have a physician examine you as soon as possible. Although you may
not be bleeding or in pain right away, the accident can be the cause
of serious and costly health problems at a later date.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Report the facts of the accident to your automobile insurance company
or agent within 24 hours of the accident.
Call Your Attorney
Contact an attorney as soon as possible to assist in the handling
of problems associated with the accident. Do not sign anything sent
to you by the other driver’s insurance company until you have
discussed it with your lawyer. At Bagolie Friedman, we are dedicated
to serving those who have been injured through no fault of their
own. Call us for a free consultation with our New Jersey auto accident attorneys.
Disclaimer: The New Jersey personal injury, wrongful
death, worker's compensation, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse,
product liability, environmental litigation, social security law, railroad
/ FELA, firefighter hearing loss, Asbestos / Mesothelioma, Lead Paint
Poisoning and/or other legal information offered herein by Bagolie Friedman,
LLC - Jersey City and Clifton New Jersey and Hollywood Florida Personal
Injury Attorneys is not formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney
client relationship. Our law firm is licensed to practice law in New Jersey,
New York and Florida. Nationwide and international coverage through associated
counsel.