If you are involved in a car accident in New Jersey, you must be prepared to act properly to avoid getting in trouble.
A driver in New Jersey cannot leave the scene of an accident. If you do leave the scene of the accident you risk getting a Summons which could result in points on your license and loss or suspension of your driver’s license.
If you or another driver is injured, you should if conditions permit immediately call 911 and advise the operator of your location and medical condition. If you are unable to call 911, do not panic and attempt to stay calm as other drivers will undoubtedly pull over to attempt to help you or they will contact the police to advise them of the accident.
If possible, you should pull over into the shoulder of the road as to avoid the danger of being in the middle of the roadway. Being on the shoulder is usually a lot safer than being in the roadway.
If the accident is minor in nature and you are able to communicate with the other driver, attempt to exchange information. At a minimum, you should gather your car registration, your driver’s license and your insurance card which the investigating police officer will need in order to write up a police report. If you cannot find these documents in your car, you can provide these documents at a later date. Every motor vehicle in New Jersey is required to have Automobile Insurance. Failure to have Automobile Insurance is a very serious motor vehicle violation which carries with it a mandatory one-year loss of license.