Tips on How to Stay Safe While Traveling Throughout New Jersey During the Fall Season
It’s hard to believe that the summer season is already over. While statistics show that popular summer holidays like Fourth of July and Labor Day weekend see a major uptick in motor vehicle accidents, people are often surprised to learn that the autumn season presents its own set of dangers for New Jersey commuters. With school back in session, shorter days and the rush of the upcoming holiday season, there are many opportunities for accidents to occur. Below, we take a look at the most common reason for autumn car accidents and how you can stay safe in the months ahead.
How to Stay Safe on the Road When Traveling
Did you know that deer accidents are actually more common during the autumn months? This is because in New Jersey, deer mating season peaks from late October all the way through mid-December. While this is an interesting tidbit, rear-end accidents can happen in the blink of an eye if the driver ahead of you stops suddenly. This is why it’s always important to maintain a safe following distance between you and other vehicles.
Other common causes of car collisions during the fall include:
- Driving on wet leaves, which can result in hydroplaning and difficulty coming to a full stop in a timely manner
- Frost that may develop on the roadways overnight
- Intense sun glare as the sun begins to set during the commute home from work
- Reduced visibility
- Increased traffic in the mornings and afternoons due to school being back in session
- Increased traffic for holiday travel, including Thanksgiving and Black Friday
This is why it’s so important to stay vigilant of your surroundings at all times, take breaks if you’re fatigued and avoid dangerous driving habits such as talking on a cell phone, eating or drinking food and getting behind the wheel intoxicated.
It’s also important to remember that because of the reduced visibility, bicycle and pedestrian accidents are increasingly more common during the autumn months. If you’re a bicyclist or pedestrian, always remember to wear brightly colored clothing so that cars can see you.
What to Do if You’re Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, take the following steps:
- Ensure the safety of everyone involved. Check that not only the passengers in your own vehicle but also any other vehicles involved, are safe.
- Report the accident to the appropriate police department and call for medical attention if needed. Even if you feel fine, it is best to have everyone checked by a medical professional.
- Collect evidence of the accident. While it might not be the first thing on your mind, it is a good idea to begin collecting evidence of the accident. This includes taking photographs of the accident and noting any property damage.
- Notify your insurance company. It is also a good idea to notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Avoid admitting blame, but notify them that an accident has occurred.
- Reach out to a lawyer. Discuss the details of your car accident with a lawyer.
It is always a good idea to discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. New Jersey statute of limitations allows you to file a lawsuit up to two years from the date of the accident. Failing to meet this timeline could cause you to lose out on the money you need to recover. Keep in mind that it will also take your lawyer some time to build your case, so it is best to reach out as soon as you can.
Contact a Red Bank Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Motor Vehicle Accident Case in New Jersey
Were you or a loved one injured due to a motor vehicle accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Drazin and Warshaw, P.C. represent clients injured in Asbury Park, Red Bank, Holmdel, Tinton Falls and throughout Monmouth County, Ocean County and Middlesex County, New Jersey. Call (732) 576-8860 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 25 Reckless Place, Red Bank, NJ 07701 as well as offices in Hazlet and Brick.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
