Auto Accidents

 In a Car Accident?

With more cars on the road than ever and even more things now to distract drivers, auto accidents are anything but a rare event in the state of New Jersey. In 2008 alone there were 302,953 accidents in the state. While many of these accidents may have been the typical “fender benders”, more than 22 percent of these accidents resulted in injuries for either the driver or the passengers of the vehicles

It is unfortunate that those who follow the traffic laws have to suffer due to the reckless behavior of another person behind the wheel. When these types of auto accidents occur, it is imperative that you contact an attorney who has experience in dealing with personal injury cases that resulted from a car crash. At the car accident law firm of BagolieFriedman, we understand the frustration that our clients go through when they are involved in a crash, often worrying about medical bills, missing work, dealing with the insurance companies, and how to provide for their loved ones. But with us at your side, there is no need to worry about anything. Our auto accident attorneys have the knowledge and experience in going after and getting the maximum compensation that is owed to their clients, regardless if it’s an insurance company or the driver at fault they have to go after.

In Case of an Auto Accident
Buckle Up
Always wear your seatbelt. It is the law. Make sure that any report (police, medical, etc.) reflects this fact.

Stop Immediately
New Jersey law requires you to stop your vehicle at the accident scene when it involves personal injury, death or property damage.

Assist the Injured
If someone is injured, call 911. If possible, and only if it is safe to do so, try to warn oncoming vehicles, so as to avoid further accidents.

Call a Police Officer
Call the police and cooperate with the investigating officer. Always get the police report number. If the police decide not to come to the scene or not to make out a report, file a police counter report within 24 hours of the accident. Again, get the police report number.

Exchange Information
Always identify yourself and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Get the name of the other driver’s insurance company and policy number, as well as the name and telephone number of the other driver’s insurance agent.

Be Cautious
Do not admit fault, discuss opinions or make any statements to the other driver. Give no statements, oral or written, to anyone except the police officer investigating your accident. Anything you say may be used against you later by the other driver’s insurance company. Keep your accident notes and information to yourself.

Record Witnesses/Take Notes
Write down the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of anyone who witnessed the accident. The witnesses may have important information about the incident which may help your case, especially if the other driver later accuses you of causing the accident. Keep a diary of all significant details and physical evidence, including position of the cars and length of the skid marks. This will become useful when your case is ready to move to trial or during settlement discussions. Make a list of all damaged property, in addition to your bodily injuries. Take photographs of damages and injuries. Keep track of all doctor visits, prescriptions, contacts with insurance companies/adjusters, how you feel from day to day and your lack of capabilities since the accident.

See a Doctor
Have a physician examine you as soon as possible. Although you may not be bleeding or in pain right away, the accident can be the cause of serious and costly health problems at a later date.

Inform Your Insurance Company
Report the facts of the accident to your automobile insurance company or agent within 24 hours of the accident.

Call Your Attorney
Contact an attorney as soon as possible to assist in the handling of problems associated with the accident. Do not sign anything sent to you by the other driver’s insurance company until you have discussed it with your lawyer. At Bagolie Friedman, we are dedicated to serving those who have been injured through no fault of their own. Call us for a free consultation with our New Jersey auto accident attorneys.