New Jersey Automobile Accidents
Automobile accidents are the most common cause of personal injuries in New Jersey.

According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, local drivers were involved in more than 284,000 reported car crashes 2012.542 of these automobile accidents resulted in fatalities.

Many accidents are caused by negligence, recklessness, or violations of the law.For example, even though it is illegal for New Jersey drivers to talk or text on a hand-held cell phone while driving, and even hands-free devices are distracting and are to be used sparingly while in motion, 1838 car accidents involved hand-hold phones in 2012.1534 accidents involved hands-free phones.9 of these accidents were fatal.

Many automobile accidents are also caused by people who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

In 2011, there were 193 fatalities in New Jersey involving drivers who were impaired by alcohol, with 23 involving drivers under 21.Almost 31% of all fatal automobile accidents were caused by drunk drivers.

Seatbelt use is required by New Jersey law, and the proper use of seatbelts reduces crash-related injuries and deaths by more than 50%.Not wearing a seatbelt can reduce the amount of money you could receive if injured in an accident.

Obeying the Law after an Accident

Under New Jersey law, you’re required to file a police report if the accident involves property damage of $500 or more.

• If the accident occurred on an interstate highway, contact the New Jersey State Police.
• If the accident occurred on a country or township road, contact the country or township police.

When the other driver’s at fault, he or she may be concerned about increased insurance premiums or paying traffic citations.He or she may offer you money right on the spot if you don’t report the accident to the police or to the other driver’s insurance carrier.

This is a very bad idea.

Protecting Your Rights after an Accident

When you’re involved in an automobile accident and another party was at fault, your first concern should be protecting your own health, safety, and legal rights.

Don’t say anything to the other driver that could be used against you later during settlement negotiations or in court.Don’t discuss your injuries or who caused the accident.Simply exchange license and insurance information and call the police if required.

When you’re involved in an automobile accident and you weren’t at fault, often you’ll receive a call from the insurance carrier for the other driver.When that happens, it’s important not to say or do anything that will hurt your potential case.

Although you’re required to talk to your own insurance carrier in the event of an accident, you aren’t required to talk directly to the other driver’s carrier.Retaining an experienced automobile accident attorney can protect you from making an innocent mistake that could prevent you from recovering the compensation you would otherwise be entitled to.

If you’ve suffered a personal injury or experienced property damage in an automobile accident due to someone else’s negligence, or if a family member has been hurt or killed in an accident, contact our office for a free initial consultation.