Following a car accident in Cherry Hill, drivers must immediately stop at the scene, check for injuries, call 911, and move vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so; an immediate medical evaluation is usually warranted. Taking these rapid steps protects your physical safety and creates the official documentation needed for potential insurance claims and lawsuits. It is best to address all of those tasks before leaving the scene.
What Are the Primary Steps To Take After a Crash?
These are the key steps to take following a collision:
- Call 911 immediately to bring local emergency responders and police officers to the scene.
- If possible, move the vehicle away from traffic to an adjacent shoulder or parking lot.
- Request a medical evaluation even if physical injuries seem minor at first; in some cases, ambulance transport to an ER is necessary.
- Snap photos of auto insurance policy details, driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and phone numbers of the other motorists.
- Take clear photographs of vehicle damage, road layouts, and nearby traffic signs.
- If there were witnesses, request their contact information.
- Ask the responding officers how to get copies of the police report.
- Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid sharing anything other than the time and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do drivers have to file a lawsuit?
New Jersey laws impose a strict two-year time limit from the exact date of the crash to initiate an injury lawsuit. Failing to submit the proper court paperwork before this statutory deadline expires means a judge will dismiss the claim permanently. Because obtaining hospital records and analyzing liability takes months, we recommend working with a car accident lawyer from the outset.
How does comparative negligence affect financial compensation?
New Jersey uses a modified comparative negligence framework, so final financial compensation depends on individual fault assignments. An injured driver can recover money as long as their personal responsibility remains below 51%. In those cases, the amount of compensation is reduced by the percentages assigned to those involved.
Should I provide a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster?
No. Those representatives use casual conversations to draw out statements they can leverage to reduce claimant payouts. You can provide basic logistical facts such as the location and date, but do not admit fault or share details.
How much do personal injury legal services cost?
Personal injury attorneys handle automobile accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which eliminates any upfront out-of-pocket costs. Law firms manage all investigation expenses and court document filings throughout the duration of the lawsuit. Legal fees are calculated solely as a percentage of the final settlement, meaning clients pay nothing if the case is lost. Many firms, such as ours, offer free initial consultations.
What are the latest traffic danger facts in the state?
The New Jersey Department of Transportation posted that there were 58,310 traffic-related injuries in 2024, resulting in 647 fatalities. Fortunately, the Attorney General and the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) reported that traffic fatalities in New Jersey declined by roughly 15% in 2025. However, early data from the first half of 2026 suggests a slight reversal of this safer trend, keeping state safety officials and local advocates on high alert.
Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of David J. Karbasian, PC Can Explain How to Protect Your Rights Before You Call the Insurance Company
For experienced, local legal guidance immediately after a motor vehicle accident, contact our respected Cherry Hill car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of David J. Karbasian, PC. Our legal team will ensure that your rights are protected. Call 856-600-HURT or complete the online form for a free consultation. With offices located in Cherry Hill, NJ, we proudly serve all clients in the surrounding areas.
