According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle accidents very often occur at intersections. Knowing your rights and responsibilities as a driver and/or someone injured in an accident is beneficial.
WHY INTERSECTION ACCIDENTS OCCUR
According to National Safety Council (NSC) and NHTSA, respectively, twenty-five percent of all automobile accidents are related to distraction secondary to cell phone use; and, alcohol and drug impairment during driving (illegal drugs and/or prescription medications), is a primary cause of vehicle accidents, with 40% of all vehicle accidents involving fatalities attributed to alcohol use. Road conditions and/or deficiencies in traffic control markings, signs or devices may also contribute to the causes of accidents.
AFTER THE ACCIDENT
Your primary focus after an accident should be to get appropriate medical attention if required. Cooperating with law enforcement and gathering evidence should be your second priority. If possible, and if it does not interfere with law enforcement or other emergency responders at the scene of the accident, try to take photos and/or videos and obtain the names and contact information of witnesses. Contact legal counsel well versed in automobile accident claims.
Contact your insurance carrier to properly report the incident. Try to secure a copy of the police report as soon as it has been finalized. Keep records of all auto insurance and other communications and bills regarding damage and repairs made to your vehicle. Keep or secure documentation and with regard to your injuries, medical treatment and costs, as well as records of lost wages due to the accident.
LIABILITIES
Drivers at fault for an accident are typically considered liable for your injuries and associated losses. In addition, property owners, road maintenance and construction/paving companies and/or municipalities and states may be culpable if the road conditions or traffic control devices were deficient and somehow caused or contributed to the occurrence.
Contact a knowledgeable New Jersey intersection accident lawyer with experience in personal injury, or in any motor vehicle or pedestrian accident. Proceed in a timely manner, as there are various time limitations relative to when you must file claims, and a qualified attorney can proceed accordingly in that regard to help you protect your rights.
Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari has successfully resolved thousands of motor vehicle and pedestrian accident claims over many decades. Please contact us at 973-845-4421 for more information.