The majority of car accidents are caused by driver negligence. In fact, the leading cause of car accidents in the U.S. is distracted driving, which typically involves texting while driving. If you were injured due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. However, you will have to prove that the accident was directly caused by the other party’s negligence– this is known as fulfilling the burden of proof. Read on to learn more about fulfilling the burden of proof after a New Jersey car accident.
Fulfilling the burden of proof:
In order to fulfill the burden of proof, it is important to take the following steps immediately after a car accident:
- Call the police: If the car accident is serious, you should call 911. In this case, the police can send an ambulance and help ensure the scene is safe. If the accident was less serious, like a small fender bender, you should still call your local police department to report the incident.
- Seek medical attention: You should go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility immediately after an accident occurs. This is because it is possible to sustain a serious injury without realizing it. For example, some injuries do not show symptoms right away. Additionally, this will provide you with important proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. This evidence can play a large role in a personal injury case, so it is important to ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents. It is also imperative that you follow your doctor’s orders. Failing to do so can hinder your healing and make you look responsible for any lingering health issues.
- Document the scene: If you are able to do so, take pictures and videos of the scene of the accident. Be sure to document the damage done to any vehicles and property involved.
- Obtain witness contacts: If anyone saw your accident occur, they may be able to provide important witness testimony and corroborate your version of events.
- Contact an attorney: A personal injury attorney may be able to obtain evidence that you could not otherwise access. For example, your attorney may be able to obtain the other driver’s phone records in order to prove that he or she was texting and driving at the time of the accident.
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, our firm will fight for you. Reach out today to discuss your case with a skilled and dedicated attorney.
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If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. for a free consultation today.
