Auto accidents can create confusion like few other life events. All drivers in New Jersey should understand the best course of action to take immediately after being involved in a collision because it is an “at-fault” state when accident injury claims are being settled. How drivers act and what they say after an accident can impact how their personal injury claims may be settled, and knowing what not to do is vital in many situations.
Avoid interaction with other drivers
While it is a good decision to assist in locating passengers who may be injured in motor vehicle accidents, drivers and passengers alike should refrain from discussions with other drivers who may want to deflect fault to someone else. Always focus first on those in your vehicle after calling 911 and wait for a police officer unless someone is in serious danger and needs immediate help.
Never admit fault
New Jersey accident settlements are based on fault, and particularly on personal fault. Anyone over 50% at fault for their own injuries are exempt from receiving financial compensation in addition to being liable for the injuries of other drivers and passengers. This applies when talking with police investigators as well as with any other affected individuals.
Never refuse medical treatment
Accident injuries are not always superficial and victims are not always aware they are injured. Internal injuries can manifest well after auto accidents have been investigated and cleared, and it is always best to seek medical attention as soon as possible when being involved even if EMTs are focused on other injured parties.
These are just a few of the issues that can affect how an accident investigation and settlement may be finalized. It is always good for each and every driver in New Jersey to have a personal protocol in mind just in case of accident involvement.