7 Surprising Steps You Need to Take After a Car Accident That Most People Overlook

October 16, 2024

Car accidents can be overwhelming, and many drivers are unsure of what to do immediately after the crash. While most people know the basics—like exchanging information with the other driver and calling the police—there are other crucial steps that are often overlooked. Missing these steps could hurt your chances of filing a successful car accident claim or securing compensation for your injuries.

This blog will walk you through the seven surprising things you need to do after a car accident and how a personal injury lawyer can help.

1. Take Photos of the Entire Scene

One of the most important things you can do after a car accident is to take photos of the entire scene—not just the damage to your vehicle. Many drivers focus only on the cars involved in the accident, but photos of the surrounding area can provide critical context for your claim.

Capture images of:

Road conditions
Traffic signs and signals
Weather conditions
Skid marks, debris, and the positioning of vehicles
Any visible injuries you have

These photos can serve as valuable evidence if there’s a dispute about who was at fault or if you need to prove the extent of your injuries. It’s one of the most overlooked steps when people wonder, “What do I do after a car accident?”

2. Collect Witness Contact Information

While you’re gathering information from the other driver, don’t forget to collect contact details from any witnesses. Witness statements can be extremely helpful when filing a car accident claim, especially if the other driver disputes your version of events. Witnesses may have seen something you didn’t, and their testimony could help confirm important details about how the accident occurred.

Make sure you get:

Full names
Phone numbers or emails
A brief description of what they saw

Without witness information, it may be harder to back up your claim, especially if the case goes to court.

3. Get a Medical Check-Up Even If You Feel Fine

Many people skip this crucial step because they feel fine immediately after the accident. However, adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms of injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal damage. It’s essential to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible to detect any injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

Additionally, if you plan to file a claim for compensation, you’ll need medical documentation showing the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies may question the severity of your injuries if there’s a significant delay in seeking treatment.

4. Don’t Admit Fault or Apologize

In the heat of the moment, many drivers instinctively apologize or admit fault, even if they aren’t entirely sure what caused the accident. While it’s important to exchange information with the other driver, avoid making any statements about who is to blame.

New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. Admitting fault could harm your chances of receiving full compensation. Instead, let the facts speak for themselves and avoid discussing details with the other driver until you’ve consulted a car accident lawyer.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company Right Away

It’s crucial to notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, even if you don’t plan on filing a claim immediately. Delays in reporting the accident can lead to complications in your claim, or worse, your claim could be denied.

When speaking to your insurer, provide the basic facts of the accident but avoid speculating about who was at fault or the extent of your injuries. Stick to the facts and let your personal injury lawyer handle the more detailed discussions.

6. Keep a Record of All Accident-Related Expenses

Accidents can lead to a wide range of expenses beyond just medical bills and vehicle repairs. Keeping a record of all costs related to the accident is essential for securing full compensation in a car accident claim.

Be sure to track:

Medical treatments and medications
Vehicle repairs or replacements
Rental car costs
Lost wages due to time off work
Costs for additional help you may need at home during recovery

These records will be critical when you work with a car accident lawyer to calculate the damages for your claim. If you don’t keep track of these expenses, you may miss out on compensation for costs you didn’t anticipate.

7. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer Before Signing Anything

Before you sign any settlement offer from the insurance company, it’s essential to consult with a car accident lawyer. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than they’re worth. Accepting an initial offer without understanding the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs can result in a settlement that doesn’t cover all your expenses.

A personal injury lawyer will:

Review the settlement offer to ensure it’s fair
Help calculate the true value of your claim, including future costs
Negotiate with the insurance company to get the compensation you deserve

Having legal guidance ensures that you don’t sign away your rights to additional compensation that you may need down the road.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Car Accident Claim

Car accident claims can be complex, especially when there’s a dispute about fault or the extent of your injuries. Having a skilled car accident lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. They’ll handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence to support your case, and represent your best interests throughout the process.

In New Jersey, personal injury laws are designed to protect accident victims, but navigating the legal system can be challenging without guidance. With a personal injury lawyer by your side, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities.

Need Help with a New Jersey Car Accident Claim? Call Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan Today!

If you’ve been involved in a car accident and need help filing a claim, don’t wait to get the legal assistance you deserve. Our experienced car accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights so you receive the compensation you need for your injuries and losses.

Call us today at 866-845-5571 for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys. Let us help you through this difficult time and get the compensation you deserve.