5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Gloucester County

A car accident can happen in an instant, and the aftermath can feel overwhelming. If you’re involved in a crash in Gloucester County, New Jersey, knowing what steps to take can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation. Here are five critical things to do immediately after a car accident.

1. Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention

The first step is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked out by emergency medical personnel. In Gloucester County, local emergency services are generally prompt and well-equipped to assist at accident scenes.

If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it out of the roadway to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and, if available, use cones or flares to alert other drivers. Remaining calm and focused at this stage is critical to ensure everyone’s safety.

2. Contact Law Enforcement and File a Police Report

New Jersey law requires that drivers report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. That means nearly all accidents must be reported to law enforcement.

If police respond to the scene, they will document the incident and file an official crash report. Be sure to ask for the report number and the officer’s name and badge number. If police do not respond, you may need to file a self-report using New Jersey’s SR-1 form within 10 days.

This report will become a key piece of evidence in any insurance or legal claims, so be sure the information is accurate and complete.

3. Exchange Information and Document the Scene

After ensuring everyone is safe and calling the police, exchange the following information with the other driver:

• Full name and contact details

• Driver’s license number

• License plate number

• Insurance company and policy number

If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information as well. Neutral third-party witnesses can help clarify what happened and support your account.

Use your phone to take clear photos of:

• All vehicles involved, from multiple angles

• Visible injuries

• Road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs

• The surrounding area

If your phone is unavailable or damaged, jot down notes and make a sketch of the accident scene while the details are fresh in your mind.

4. Get Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Fine

Some injuries—such as concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage—may not appear immediately. It’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible after the crash, even if you don’t feel injured at the time.

Prompt medical attention ensures your health and creates a documented record of your injuries. This documentation can be critical if you pursue a personal injury claim. Be sure to follow all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments to support your recovery and any future case.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company to report the accident, ideally within 24 to 48 hours. Under New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws, your own insurance company will typically cover your medical expenses through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), regardless of who was at fault.

Stick to the facts when discussing the accident and avoid speculating or accepting blame. Do not provide a recorded statement or sign any settlement agreement without first consulting an attorney, especially if injuries are involved.

Your insurance provider will guide you through the claims process, but remember, their priority is to minimize payouts. If you believe your injuries are serious or the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, it may be time to speak with a personal injury lawyer.

Protecting Your Rights in Gloucester County

Gloucester County residents are fortunate to have responsive emergency services and a solid legal framework for handling motor vehicle accidents. However, the steps you take immediately after a crash can have a significant impact on your ability to recover damages and navigate the legal system.

Following this checklist ensures that you protect your health, preserve important evidence, and lay the groundwork for any insurance or legal action that may follow.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Gloucester County car accident and you’re unsure of your next steps, consider speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands local laws and courts.