Distracted driving is currently the leading cause of car accidents in the United States, surpassing driving while under the influence of alcohol. A statistic that may seem surprising is that the Federal Communication Commission has stated that texting while driving is six times more likely to cause a car accident than drunk driving. Unfortunately, many people still choose to text and drive, leading to serious car accidents. If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident in New Jersey due to another party’s texting and driving, you may be entitled to recover compensation. Read on to learn more about texting and driving accidents and what to do in the event of an injury.
What Do I Do If I Am Involved in a Car Accident?
If you are involved in a car accident due to another party’s negligence, there are some important steps you should take:
- Call 911: The police can file an accident report, conduct chemical tests, and gather witness statements.
- Document the scene: If possible, take photos and videos at the scene of the accident. Be sure to document the damage done to both cars and any property involved.
- Obtain witness contacts: If someone saw your accident occur, he or she may be able to corroborate your version of events. Ask for this person’s contact information.
- Seek medical attention: It is important that you visit the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility immediately after your accident. This will ensure that your injuries are treated by a medical professional while simaltaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney may be able to obtain important evidence that you could not access on your own. For example, cell phone records or security camera footage.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
If you are recovering from a serious injury, taking legal action may be the last thing on your mind. But, it is important that you do not wait too long. In order to recover the compensation you deserve, you must file your personal injury claim within a certain amount of time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally two years. This means that if you fail to file within two years from the date of the accident, you will likely lose your opportunity to recover compensation.
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, contact our firm today to speak with a dedicated personal injury attorney.
Contact our Experienced New Jersey Firm
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
