After being involved in an auto accident, you may be frazzled and overwhelmed. Depending on the details of the situation you or the other driver involved may be responsible for causing the crash and damages. Although New Jersey is a no-fault accident state, trading information with the other people involved is crucial in ensuring you are adequately prepared for the ensuing insurance and legal claims. To learn more about what information to exchange with the other driver, read on and obtain the help of a skilled Middlesex County car accident lawyer today.
Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident a Crime?
Yes, leaving or fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in New Jersey. If you were involved in an accident you are legally required to stop at the scene or as close to it as possible, provide reasonable assistance to those who need it, and exchange information with the other driver and individuals involved.
If you know or realistically should know that you were involved in an accident that caused property damage, injury, or death, you must stop at the scene or risk being charged with a hit and run.
What Information Should I Exchange with the Other Driver After a Car Accident?
State law NJ R.S.39:4-129 outlines the requirements for all drivers involved in an accident in New Jersey, whether the collision resulted in an injury, death, or property damage. Under this statute, drivers must provide their name and address as well as present their driver’s license and vehicle registration. Drivers are required to provide this information to the person who was injured or whose vehicle or property was damaged as well as to any police officer, passenger, or witness who requests it.
In addition to the required information, it is also wise to collect additional details that might aid in your attempt to collect insurance or pursue a lawsuit. Consider exchanging cell phone numbers, taking pictures of the vehicle’s license plate, noting the make, model, and description of the vehicle, and sharing information about relevant insurance policies.
Why is Exchanging Information Important?
After being involved in an auto accident you probably want to go home and recover both physically and emotionally. However, taking the time to exchange the proper information is crucial for a number of reasons.
First of all, exchanging the legally required information is essential to ensure you are in compliance with the law and do not risk fines or other consequences. In addition, it is important to have the relevant information when pursuing compensation. Although NJ is a no-fault state, you will have to present the information to your insurance provider when filing a claim.
If you end up filing an additional claim or lawsuit against the other driver, having this information will aid your pursuit of damages. For more information and legal representation, reach out to a skilled attorney today.
