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I Was in an Auto Accident, but It Wasn’t My Fault!

On Behalf of | Dec 14, 2020 | Auto Accidents |

No one expects to be in a car accident when they get behind the wheel. Not only do accidents happen regularly, but they also happen no matter how safely and cautiously we drive. Statistics bear this out: the average driver will file an insurance claim for an accident every 17.9 years.

Of course, driving defensively is the best way to reduce the likelihood of an accident happening to you. But you may find yourself in an auto accident that wasn’t your fault.

In this situation, make sure you take the right steps at the accident scene and in the days that follow to protect your legal rights. If you have any questions about what to do, call our office today to speak to an attorney.

What Should I Do to Protect Myself?

Try to remember these best practices during the immediate aftermath of the accident and in the days and weeks that follow.

Call 911:  Your health, as well as the health of anyone else involved in the accident, is the most important issue after a serious crash. Don’t assume someone else has notified authorities or called 911. If you are hurt or suspect others may be hurt, call 911 to get the fastest initial care.

Seek medical attention: If you are hurt, seek medical attention right away. Even if you only suspect you may be injured, you should still see a doctor as many injuries do not manifest until later. As an example, you may not be displaying symptoms, but you could have internal injuries that could lead to internal bleeding.

Contact the Police: Some insurance companies require you to file a police report. Once at the scene, an officer can do a lot of work for you, like gathering contact information, talking to witnesses, and creating a report based on their findings.

Collect evidence: Documentation is always helpful should you decide to file a claim or defend yourself against another party. Supplement the police report with pictures of the accident scene. Record a statement detailing as much information as you can about the accident. You’d be surprised how much your memory fades even after a few days.

Often, many people will stop at an accident scene and offer assistance. Get their contact information and ask them what they saw. Those witness statements could be very helpful later on.

Protect Yourself by Hiring an Experienced New Jersey Accident Attorney

The accident attorneys at Lomurro Law can help you understand what to do when a car accident is not your fault. Contact our team before you speak with an insurance adjuster about your crash. Remember, the adjusters represent the insurance company, and their job is to settle every claim they receive for as little as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation with a New Jersey accident lawyer, call us at 732-482-9285 or contact us online.