A car accident can be a life-altering event that leaves victims physically injured, emotionally shaken, and uncertain about the next steps. The aftermath of an accident can be particularly stressful in a bustling city like New York due to the complexity of traffic laws and the fast pace of urban life. However, knowing what to do immediately after a car accident can improve your likelihood of receiving fair compensation.
Below, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo explain what to do after a car accident to increase your chances of compensation.
Make Sure Everyone is Safe and Call for Help
The first step after a car accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. If possible, move vehicles to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 if medical assistance is needed.
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal damage, may not present symptoms immediately. Delaying medical treatment can not only worsen your injuries but also hurt your chances of recovering compensation, as insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
Make sure to keep detailed records of your medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and expenses. These documents will be critical for calculating damages in your case.
In addition to getting the medical attention you need, calling the police to report the accident can make it easier to document your case later on. An officer will assess the scene, gather statements, and prepare a report documenting the incident. This report can be a valuable piece of evidence in any legal proceedings that follow.
Document the Scene
While waiting for emergency responders, take steps to document the accident. Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of the damage to all vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details, as their statements may help support your future case.
Obtain a Police Car Accident Report in NYC
Knowing how to obtain a police car accident report in NYC is a fundamental part of protecting yourself while on the road. The report is an official record of the accident and can provide critical details for insurance claims or legal action.
To get a copy of the report, you can visit the New York Police Department’s online portal or request it in person at the precinct where the accident was reported. You’ll need to provide identification, the accident’s date and location, and possibly a small fee. A NYC car accident lawyer can assist in obtaining this document and make sure it’s included as part of your case file.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Provide them with the details of the accident and any supporting documents you’ve gathered, including the police report and photographs. However, be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters. They may try to minimize your claim or shift blame to you.
Avoid giving recorded statements or signing any documents without consulting an NYC car accident lawyer. Your attorney can handle communication with the insurance company to protect your rights and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
What Are Your Legal Options?
Just thinking about the legal battle that may ensue following a car accident can be enough to deter some from filing. However, Consulting a skilled NYC car accident lawyer can help you understand your car accident legal steps and ensure that your rights are protected, especially when dealing with injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress.
An attorney can assist with:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence.
- Determining liability and identifying all responsible parties.
- Calculating the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiating with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
- Filing a lawsuit if a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached through negotiation.
File a Claim Within the Legal Deadlines
New York has specific statutes of limitations for filing car accident claims. For personal injury cases, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Claims for property damage also follow a three-year timeline. Missing these deadlines could result in losing your right to seek compensation, so it’s best to act quickly.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need help navigating the legal process, contact an experienced attorney at Sullivan Papain to guide you. They can provide the support and expertise you need to seek justice and fair compensation.
Contact an Experienced NYC Car Accident Lawyer at Sullivan Papain Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in personal injury cases, 9/11-related illnesses, firefighter accidents, car accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.