The minutes after a car accident are disorienting. Adrenaline is pumping, you might be in pain, and other people need help. But the steps you take right now will shape how your claim plays out months from now.
At the Scene
Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911. Even for minor collisions, getting a police report filed creates an official record that your attorney and the insurance company will rely on. Exchange insurance information, driver's license numbers, and contact information. Note the make, model, and license plate of their vehicle. Get witness names and phone numbers.
Take photos. Damage to all vehicles, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, debris, and any visible injuries. Take wide shots and close ups. These photos cost nothing and can be worth thousands in your claim.
In the First 48 Hours
See a doctor even if you feel fine. Some injuries don't produce symptoms for hours or days. Whiplash symptoms often appear 24 to 72 hours later. Concussion symptoms can be delayed. A medical evaluation creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Report the accident to your own insurance company. Stick to the facts. Don't give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without talking to a lawyer first. The New Jersey MVC also has specific rules about when you must file an SR-1 accident report with the state.
Protect Your Claim
Don't post about the accident on social media. Insurance companies check your accounts. A photo of you smiling at a barbecue the weekend after the crash can be used to undermine your pain and suffering claim. Be aware of the filing deadline for your case.