Come summer, tourism spikes along the Jersey shore and in Philadelphia’s famed Penn’s Landing and Delaware River Waterfront. Tourism isn’t the only thing on the rise – traffic accidents increase as well. These accidents range from minor fender-benders to more traumatic crashes that lead to devasting injuries.
In New Jersey, the roads are clogged with beachgoers traveling the NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway to reach the popular beaches dotting the coast including Brigantine Beach, Long Beach Island, Point Pleasant Beach, Belmar, Seaside Park, Lavallette, Spring Lake, and Sea Isle City. Auto accidents increase during this period. In fact, according to state data, New Jersey has hit the highest number of traffic-related fatalities in 15 years.
Pennsylvanians and the residents of Philadelphia are not immune from traffic or car accidents. Penn’s Landing is the epicenter of major summer attractions including festivals, concerts, free movies, beer gardens, yoga, and roller skating. People flock to the area from all over the state which impacts the region including Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Old City, Society Hill, Queen Village, and Pennsport.
While it’s no surprise that traffic-related accidents and injuries escalate, it’s important to understand the causes. They include:
- Construction: Summer is a popular time for road construction and repairs. These projects can cause lane closures, detours, and other disruptions.
- Tourists: New Jersey and Pennsylvania are popular summer vacation destinations and in many cases, people are unfamiliar with the roads and traffic patterns in the area which can increase the risk of accidents.
- Driver Distractions: In the summer, drivers may be more likely to engage in distracting activities, such as using their phones, eating, or adjusting the radio or air conditioning. These distractions can take their attention away from the road and increase the risk of accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Summer weather conditions can also contribute to car accidents, with factors such as rain, thunderstorms, and high temperatures affecting visibility and road conditions.
The increasing number of traffic accidents on the East Coast is concerning. To ensure safety and reduce the likelihood of serious injury or death, drivers must be more mindful when traveling through the area. This means paying attention to road signs, watching their speed, and leaving a safe driving distance between themselves and other vehicles. There are several initiatives in place to help reduce the risk of accidents. These include raising awareness about drunk driving, increasing enforcement of traffic laws, expanding public transportation, and creating safer roadways through engineering and design.
Being aware of the dangers on the road can help prevent accidents. However, there are times when it is unavoidable, or you are the victim of another driver’s negligence. If that’s the case, then there are steps you need to take in the event of an accident.
What Should I Do If I Am In An Accident?
If you’ve been in an auto accident, there are several things you should do to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
- Contact the police: Call the police to report the accident. Even if there are no injuries, it is important to have an official record of the accident.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine after the accident, it is a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure you have not sustained any injuries.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact, insurance, and license plate information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This will be critical information for your insurance company and any potential lawsuit.
- Witnesses: Try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
- Document the accident: Take photos and videos of the damage to your car and the other vehicle(s) involved and the accident scene.
- Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and begin the claims process.
- Do not talk to any insurance company or agent: Other than your own insurance company or agent, you should not speak to anyone else about the accident or any details of what happened. Other-party insurance companies will try to use your statements against you.
- Contact an attorney: If you have been injured in the accident, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your legal rights, and seek compensation for your injuries.
Accidents are emotional and traumatic experiences. It’s important to stay calm, get medical attention, and then follow up with a personal injury attorney. Your insurance company can provide information about your coverage, and a personal injury lawyer can help you determine the best course of action to take. Following these steps can help ensure that you get the compensation and medical care that you need after an accident.
Why You Should Get Advice From A Personal Injury Attorney After A Car Accident
If you have been involved in a car accident in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, an experienced car accident lawyer will be essential to help you get the money you deserve for your injuries. Your accident lawyer can provide you with legal representation and help you navigate the legal process including:
- Evaluate your case: A personal injury lawyer can review the details of your car accident and evaluate the strength of your case. They can determine the extent of your injuries, calculate your damages, and advise you on the best course of action.
- Investigate the accident: A car accident lawyer will investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, collect evidence, and interview witnesses. This can help establish liability and strengthen your case.
- Communicate with insurance companies: An auto accident lawyer can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, negotiate a settlement, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Represent you in court: If your case goes to court, a personal injury lawyer can represent you and present your case to a judge or jury. They can argue on your behalf, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence to support your claim.
- Help you get medical treatment: Your injury lawyer can help you find appropriate medical treatment for your injuries and make sure that your medical bills are paid for.
The car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman have decades of experience representing those who have suffered injuries in a car crash caused by the negligence of someone else. They have experience with insurance companies who don’t want to pay you for your injuries; they can investigate a case; file a claim; negotiate on your behalf; and if necessary, file a lawsuit for damages. You should not have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence. Get the compensation you deserve. Call today for a free consultation.
