Actually, no it’s not. According to New Jersey law, you must file a police report after an auto accident if the damage to your car is at least $500. Although you may not think much damage has occurred to your car, never let another driver convince you not to call the police, especially if that driver is at fault.
No one enjoys seeing their insurance rates rise, especially after an accident, but that’s never a reason not to call the police. If you don’t call the police, then you will not have an official record of what occurred and that could affect your insurance claim.
After any type of car accident, you should do the following:
- Make sure you, your passengers, the other driver and his/her passengers are ok.
- Call the police immediately.
- Call for an ambulance if anyone has been injured.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Try to take photos of your car and the other driver’s. It may come in handy later on.
- Do not admit fault and do not engage in any small talk while waiting for the police.
- And do not leave the scene of the accident until the police say it’s alright to leave.
Remember, after an auto accident, you must protect your own legal interests. You never know what will happen afterward.
If you recently got into an auto accident and the insurance company isn’t cooperating, you need our help. The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone, PC has been fighting with insurance companies for the past 26 years. Contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll get you the money that you deserve.