If you get into a car crash, your insurance company should know about it. There are many good reasons to report an accident to an insurer promptly, and taking this step is a necessity if you want to sue for damages or make an insurance claim later on. Our Sussex County auto accident lawyers can tell you more about how this process works and why you shouldn’t procrastinate.
Do I Have to Report an Accident If No One Got Hurt?
You should even report an accident if no one appears to be injured. There are good reasons for this. One, your insurer also cares about accidents that just cause property damage. Depending on the situation and the coverage you have, you or another driver could have valid reasons to make a claim.
Two, some accident-related injuries aren’t obvious right away. Someone could feel fine after a crash, only to notice pain, numbness, or other signs of an underlying medical issue a few hours or days later. This is why it’s important to report an accident and seek out medical attention right away.
How Long Do I Have to Report an Accident?
New Jersey drivers are encouraged to report an accident as soon as possible. It’s preferable to talk to your insurer within 24 hours. You should give them all of the details about the accident itself, like where it happened, when it happened, and who was involved. However, you shouldn’t be too eager to speak with someone.
You should keep your answers short and to the point if you’re asked any questions. You want to make sure that you don’t say anything that could be misconstrued or misinterpreted as admitting any fault for the crash.
What Could Happen If I Don’t Report an Accident Right Away?
If you don’t report an accident right away, that can make it more difficult to claim compensation later. This can slow down the claims process or, even worse, make it easier for an insurer to deny your claim. You don’t want to have to deal with this added hassle.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Make an Insurance Claim?
After an accident, you can make a claim with your own insurer. If you were seriously injured and believe that another driver caused the accident and your injuries, you could also file a claim with their insurance company. If your claim gets denied or you get an offer for much less than you would need to cover your expenses, that’s when you’ll want to involve a lawyer.
A personal injury attorney can help you build a stronger case and negotiate for more compensation. Even if you think you have received a great settlement offer, it can’t hurt to consult with a lawyer to see if there’s a chance to claim more in damages.
Meet With Our Attorneys
If you were hurt in a crash and want to learn more about your legal options, contact Laddey Clark & Ryan, LLP. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about the potential value of your case and what our attorneys can do to be of assistance.
