A rear end crash in New Jersey can shake you hard, even if the damage looks small. You may feel pain, shock, and fear all at once. You might also feel pressure to “just move on” and let it go. That choice can cost you money, health, and peace of mind. This guide gives you five clear steps to protect yourself after a rear end accident in New Jersey. You will learn what to do at the scene, how to protect your body, how to report the crash, and how to guard your rights. You will also see when it helps to contact a lawyer who knows New Jersey roads and courts, such as the team at chamlinlaw.com. Each step is simple. Each step matters. When you follow them, you take back control after someone hits you from behind.
Step 1: Get to safety and call for help
First, check if you or anyone else is hurt. If you can move, turn on your hazard lights. If the cars are drivable and it is safe, move to the shoulder or a nearby lot. New Jersey roads stay busy. Staying in a live lane puts you at risk for another hit.
Next, call 911. Tell the dispatcher your location, if anyone is hurt, and if traffic is blocked. A police report helps you later with insurance and with any claim. New Jersey law expects you to report crashes with injury, death, or clear property damage.
While you wait, stay calm. Take slow breaths. Speak in short clear sentences. You do not need to argue with the other driver. You only need to wait for help and watch for traffic.
Step 2: Collect facts and take photos
Once you are safe, start to record what happened. You may feel shaken. Memory can fade fast after a shock. Simple notes and photos protect you.
Collect this information:
- Names and contact details for every driver and passenger
- License plate numbers and driver’s license numbers
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Make, model, and color of each vehicle
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Badge number and name of any officer at the scene
Then take photos with your phone:
- All vehicle damage from several angles
- The road, traffic lights, stop signs, and skid marks
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Any visible bruises, cuts, or marks on your body
Do not say “I am fine” or “I am not hurt.” You may not feel pain yet. Your body might still be in shock. A simple “I want to get checked out” is enough.
Step 3: See a doctor even if you feel okay
Rear end crashes often cause neck, back, and head injuries. Pain can show up hours or days later. You protect your health when you see a doctor soon after the crash. You also create a record that links your symptoms to the crash date.
For quick medical facts on crash injuries you can review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on motor vehicle safety at https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/motor-vehiclesafety/index.html.
When you see a doctor, describe:
- Where you hurt
- How the crash happened
- Whether you hit your head or chest
- Any dizziness, nausea, ringing in your ears, or vision changes
Follow the treatment plan. Keep copies of:
- Visit summaries
- Prescriptions
- Referrals to therapy or specialists
- Bills and receipts
New Jersey’s no fault insurance rules mean your own policy often pays first for medical care. You still need proof of your injuries to protect any legal claim.
Step 4: Report the crash and track your costs
Next, report the crash to your insurance company. Do this as soon as you can. Give basic facts. You do not need to guess about speeds or fault. You can say, “I am still gathering information.”
You can also review New Jersey’s crash reporting rules through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission at https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/drivertopics/accidents.htm.
Then start a simple written log. Use a notebook or digital file. Each day, note:
- Pain level and where you hurt
- Missed work or school
- Tasks you cannot do at home
- Sleep problems or mood changes
Also save proof of money you spend or lose:
- Repair estimates and receipts
- Tow and rental car costs
- Parking or transit costs to medical visits
- Lost wages or hours
The table below shows common costs after a rear end crash and why each one matters.
| Type of cost | Examples | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Medical care | ER visit, doctor visits, therapy, imaging | Shows how the crash hurt your body and what care you needed |
| Vehicle damage | Body work, parts, total loss value | Shows the force of the crash and out of pocket repair costs |
| Lost income | Missed shifts, reduced hours, unpaid leave | Shows how the crash hurt your ability to work |
| Other expenses | Childcare, home help, travel to care | Shows the hidden strain the crash put on your life |
Step 5: Protect your rights before you sign anything
In many rear end crashes, the other driver’s insurance company will contact you fast. The adjuster may sound kind and calm. The person may urge you to give a recorded statement or accept a quick payment.
Pause before you agree. You have the right to:
- Refuse a recorded statement
- Review any forms before you sign
- Ask questions about what a release covers
- Talk with a lawyer first
Once you sign a release, you may not be able to ask for more money later, even if new pain shows up. That can leave you stuck with unpaid bills and stress.
A New Jersey lawyer who handles crash cases can:
- Review your police report and medical records
- Explain New Jersey no fault and liability rules in plain terms
- Deal with insurance calls for you
- Work to reach a fair settlement or take the case to court if needed
Putting it all together
After a rear end crash, you face shock, pain, and hard choices. You gain strength when you follow five clear steps. You get to safety and call 911. You collect facts and photos. You see a doctor and follow through. You report the crash and track every cost. You protect your rights before you sign anything and reach out for legal help when you need it.
You cannot undo the impact of the crash. You can still guard your health, your money, and your future. Careful steps today can ease the weight you feel tomorrow.
