NJ Car Accident Checklist: What to Do After a Crash

Follow these steps to protect your health and your claim. Save this page so you have it if you ever need it.

Know the Numbers

$500 report rule

PIP Pay First

2-year deadline

Call 911

Your Checklist After a Car Accident.

The first hours after a crash matter. Tap each group to see exactly what to do.

Check for injuries and call 911, even if the crash seems minor. Move to a safe place and turn on your hazard lights. Swap names, phone numbers, license, plate, and insurance details with the other driver.
Take photos and video of all cars, damage, skid marks, road signs, and your injuries. Get the name and phone number of any witness. Do not say "I'm sorry" or guess who caused the crash.
See a doctor within a day or two, even if you feel fine. Tell your own insurance company soon. In New Jersey, a crash with an injury, a death, or more than $500 in damage must be reported to the police.
Save medical bills, repair estimates, and notes about missed work. Do not give a recorded statement to the other insurer or accept a quick offer before speaking with a lawyer.

See a doctor right away, even if you feel fine. Some injuries show up days later.

Tell your own insurer soon. In NJ, your auto policy (PIP) pays medical bills first.

Save bills, photos, repair estimates, and notes about missed work and pain.

Call us before you give a recorded statement or sign anything. The first call is free.

Need Help Now?

Attorney Elizabeth Barreto will review your case for free. No fee unless we win. Hablamos español.

Call before you sign anything. The first call is free, and there is no fee unless we win.

Tip 1 · At the scene
Tell your own insurance company about the crash soon. In New Jersey, your auto policy (PIP) pays your medical bills first.

Tip 2 · Right after the crash
Do not accept a quick settlement offer before you know the full cost of your injuries. Once you sign, it is usually final.

Tip 3 · Before you settle

Check for injuries and call 911. Then move to a safe place if you can, swap information with the other driver, take photos, and avoid saying who was at fault.
You must report a crash to the police if it causes an injury, a death, or more than $500 in property damage. Calling the police is a good idea in most crashes, because the report helps your claim.
New Jersey is a no-fault state. Your own auto insurance (PIP) pays your medical bills first, no matter who caused the crash. Your policy sets the coverage limits.

Be careful. You do not have to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. Speak with a lawyer first, because what you say can be used against your claim.
Most NJ personal injury lawsuits must be filed within 2 years of the date of injury. Acting early helps keep evidence fresh and protects your rights.
Yes. Adrenaline can hide pain, and some injuries, like concussions, can take days to show. A medical visit also creates a record that links your injuries to the crash.