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NJ Failure To Report An Accident

NJ Failure To Report An Accident - A car accident scene with two vehicles slightly damaged on a busy street with a traffic signal visible.

Failing to report an accident in New Jersey can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. Understanding your legal obligations and knowing the proper steps to take after an accident can help you avoid these penalties. This article covers the requirements for reporting an accident, the impact on your driving record and insurance, and common mistakes to avoid.

Related: New Jersey Car Wreck Lawyer

Two cars involved in a minor accident in a parking lot, with both drivers standing next to their vehicles inspecting the damage.

In New Jersey, drivers involved in an auto accident have a legal obligation to remain at the scene of the accident until certain reporting requirements are met.

The New Jersey law states that drivers must “not leave the scene of an accident” before they notify the appropriate authorities, particularly in cases involving personal injury or property damage.

Thus, failure to report such an auto accident in New Jersey is considered a serious traffic violation, with penalties including hefty fines, points on your driving record, and potentially, a suspension of driving privileges.

The ways of reporting do not essentially differ for incidents leading to personal injury or property damage.

The drivers must make sure to first ensure the safety of all parties involved and then notify the law enforcement agencies about the accident.

The penalty for neglecting to report an accident can increase considerably if there is any doubt regarding the driver’s authenticity of the information shared.

In case of uncertainties regarding the legal obligation after a car accident, it is advisable to contact us for a free consultation.

Through this, we ensure clarity on the matter, reducing the likelihood of traffic violations that could jeopardize driving privileges.

Consequences of Failing to Report an Accident

A driver on the phone next to a car accident, with one car having a dented bumper and the driver looking concerned.

One of the most significant repercussions of the failure to report an accident is the legal consequences that it brings.

In most jurisdictions including New Jersey, the law mandates that any person involved in a car accident, be it a minor car accident or severe motor vehicle accident, must notify the police immediately and file a written report.

Failing to report, especially when the accident resulted in injury or death, can result in serious charges.

For instance, in New Jersey (NJ), drivers who neglect these obligations can face an “accident charge” which may include being charged with leaving the scene.

For such complexities, it is highly advisable to consult law offices that are knowledgeable about traffic law in these areas.

Moreover, a failure to report a car accident not only leads to legal implications but also potential complications with your insurance company.

It is essential to share the full details of the accident with your insurance provider to ensure accurate coverage.

Not providing an accident report might result in the denial of your claim and increase the possibility of higher future premiums.

It is worth mentioning that apart from getting involved in an accident, failing to adhere to these obligations can adversely affect your driving record, particularly if you were found to be responsible for the car accidents.

Hence, understanding your responsibilities during such unfortunate events can safeguard your legal and financial standing.

How to Properly File an Accident Report

An insurance agent taking pictures of a car accident with a tablet, showing the damage to both cars.

The incident’s details must be reported to the police as soon as possible following a vehicular accident.

It is crucial to promptly inform the local police department or the state police, particularly for accidents occurring within the jurisdiction of New Jersey state.

In general, this report should contain comprehensive details about the accident, including the time of the accident, all parties and vehicles involved in the accident, and any evidence of personal injury or property damage caused by the accident.

  • Send a written report of the accident to the car insurance provider within 10 days.
  • Promptly notifying your insurer helps expedite the claim process.
  • Reporting to the insurer protects you from potential penalties for leaving the scene.
  • Failure to report to the insurance company or notify the police can result in serious consequences.
  • Consequences include a conviction for leaving the scene and possible fines.
  • Ensure the accident report is detailed to avoid misunderstandings or penalties.
  • Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or property damage can lead to severe penalties.

Impact on Your Driving Record and Insurance

A police officer standing next to a damaged car, talking to the driver, with flashing lights from a police car in the background.

In the realm of car accident cases, fleeing the scene or neglecting to file a proper report can lead to severe repercussions.

Drivers involved in a motor vehicle mishap may see a tarnish on their driving records, coupled with crippling surges in their insurance premiums.

This is especially true if the accident involves significant property damage, injuries to persons, or multiple vehicles involved.

To maintain credibility and responsibility, it’s integral that the driver of the car involved first ensures the safety of all persons and vehicles involved, then makes the necessary steps to call the police and file a detailed report.

Equally important is the immediate communication with the driver’s insurer following an automobile accident. Failure to do so may equate to accusations of withholding information, which can, in turn, fuel distrust and potentially complicate the claim they wish to file.

Don’t let this become your predicament. The responsibility is undeniably substantial and at times, may need an attorney to carefully navigate car accident cases, particularly if you’re not the owner of the vehicle.

If you find yourself in a quandary about where to begin or how to proceed following an accident, please contact our law firm for a consultation with a seasoned personal injury attorney.

Our expertise spans a multitude of PC cases, and we’re here to support you in mitigating the potential negative impacts on your driver’s license and insurance.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One error frequently made by NJ drivers involved in traffic accidents is ignoring the legal obligation to report the incident if there are injuries fatalities, or significant property damage.

Under N.J.S.A., this neglect could lead to steep fines and even a suspension of up to 30 days.

Beyond the legal implications, this misstep could also complicate the insurance claims process, making it more difficult for the involved parties to receive the compensation they may be due.

Hiring an attorney may be necessary to navigate this complex process.

Our team, led by a former municipal prosecutor, is adept at providing the guidance you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation about your case.

Furthermore, many drivers perceive that they can personally manage the aftermath of an accident without legal assistance.

This assumption, more often than not, leads them down a frustrating and stressful path.

To avoid this pitfall, you should hire an attorney to help guide you through the necessary steps.

With professional help, you will better understand the correct steps to take, thus preventing potential legal consequences.

It’s essential to remember that no means of communication should replace legal advice or an attorney-client relationship.

Schedule a free consultation with us today for assistance. Our relationship will go beyond conventional means of communication as we work together to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Lord, Kobrin, Alvarez, and Fattell for a FREE consultation.
Our dedicated team is ready to fight for your rights.
908-232-7666
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