Yes, you should call the police for a fender bender in New Jersey, even if the damage looks minimal. Calling the police will document the accident and keep you compliant with state laws. A police report will protect your interests if you need to file an insurance claim later.
Fender benders are often shrugged off because it doesn’t look like much damage has happened. Yet they may be more expensive than you think, and without an accident report, it can be hard to get compensation from your insurer.
Contact a Newark car accident lawyer if you need legal assistance after a car accident, even if it’s just a fender bender in a parking lot.
New Jersey Law and Accident Reporting Requirements
New Jersey requires drivers to report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. This threshold is significantly lower than in many other states, and it’s almost impossible to know the costs of repairing your vehicle in advance.
What appears to be a minor scrape could involve damage to sensors, cameras, or other expensive technological features. Therefore, from a legal perspective, it’s best to always call the police for a fender bender in New Jersey.
Failing to report an accident can lead to legal punishments in New Jersey. These may include fines, license suspension, and, in some cases, criminal charges. Contacting the police after your fender bender will keep you on the right side of the law.
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877-751-9800What do the Police Do at an Accident Scene?
Police are called to the scene of accidents for several reasons, the most important of which is public safety. Anyone injured needs medical care, and vehicles must be moved off the road to prevent further accidents. An officer can direct traffic flow around the scene while paramedics treat the injured.
The police also serve as third-party witnesses to the accident. They document their findings in an accident report, an unbiased account of the incident. The report documents essential details such as the date, time, location, and parties involved.
The officers will also issue citations to anyone who broke traffic laws. This information will go into the report and may show who was negligent in the case. That can be important if you need to sue later.
Insurance Implications in the Garden State
New Jersey operates under a choice no-fault insurance system, which allows drivers to choose between a no-fault insurance policy and a traditional tort liability policy. This unique system can complicate matters following an accident, but you’ll rarely need to sue in a fender bender.
Insurance companies require a police report before processing a claim, even if the accident is small. It’s a measure against insurance fraud. This is another reason to call the police for a fender bender in New Jersey.
A detailed police report can help prevent arguments between you and the other driver about what happened. It also proves that you’ve been in an accident in the first place.
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877-751-9800Interacting With Law Enforcement at the Scene
The police will want to know your version of the events. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or admitting fault. Do not volunteer any information, and answer everything honestly. If you say something untrue, you’ll jeopardize your compensation and possibly your freedom.
Ask the officer how to obtain a copy of the report for later. In New Jersey, you can typically obtain a copy from the local police department wherever the accident occurred or from the state police if it was on certain roads.
Seeking Legal Advice After a New Jersey Fender Bender
While many fender benders are straightforward, some aren’t. If you’re facing challenges with your insurance claim, dealing with disputes about fault, or experiencing any other complications, it might be time to seek legal advice.
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the intricacies of New Jersey’s traffic laws and insurance regulations. They can advise you on your rights and help ensure you receive fair treatment throughout the claims process.
At Morelli Law Firm, we understand the nuances of traffic incidents across New Jersey. Our team is prepared to champion your rights and guide you through any legal challenges that may arise from your fender bender, no matter where in the Garden State it occurred.
Protect Yourself on New Jersey Roads
Calling the police after a fender bender in New Jersey is always your best option. Without a report, you won’t be able to prove your accident to the insurers, and it will be harder to defend yourself if you get sued.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident anywhere in New Jersey, speak with a car accident attorney for professional legal guidance. Contact Morelli Law Firm today to learn more about us. We can discuss your fender bender and how you can get the most from your accident claim.
Call or text 877-751-9800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form