When you have a car accident in New York, prompt action can best protect your rights and interests as you seek financial compensation for your expenses or losses from the crash. Knowing what to do after a car accident can give you the best chance of success in a legal claim.
Stay Safe and Check for Injuries
The first steps that drivers should take after a car accident include ensuring their and their passengers’ safety and assisting any injured accident victims. If it is safe to do so, drivers should move their vehicles off the road or to the side to prevent additional collisions. Activating hazard lights can also warn oncoming traffic of the stopped vehicle. Additionally, drivers should check on their passengers and the occupants of other vehicles to determine if anyone requires assistance or medical attention.
Contact the Authorities
Drivers should notify the authorities after a car accident, even if no one appears to have suffered severe injuries. If injuries are present, calling 911 will summon emergency medical assistance. Reporting the accident will also bring law enforcement to the scene, where they can investigate and prepare an official police accident report. These reports often provide critical evidence for car accident claims, offering a neutral perspective from a trained officer.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after a car accident, seeking medical attention is crucial. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately but can be identified early through a physical examination. Prompt diagnosis can help establish a clear connection between the injuries and the accident, strengthening a legal claim. Additionally, early treatment can prevent insurers from arguing that a delay in care means the injuries were not serious.
Notify Your Insurer
Contact your auto insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Many insurance policies require notification within a specific timeframe to maintain coverage eligibility. Promptly informing your insurer allows them to begin their investigation and determine their coverage obligations.
Gather Your Evidence
Start collecting and organizing evidence related to the crash, such as:
- The police crash report
- Photos or videos from the accident scene
- Dashcam footage
- Eyewitness contact information and statements
- Medical records of injury treatment
- Bills, invoices, receipts, and pay stubs to document financial losses
Having strong documentation can help your car accident attorney evaluate your legal claim and estimate the compensation you may recover.
Seek Legal Counsel
Contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your rights and options. Legal representation can help protect your interests when dealing with law enforcement, other drivers, and insurance companies.
Contact a New York Car Accident Lawyer Today
After a car crash in New York, you need dedicated legal representation to guide you through the claims process and advocate for your interests. Contact McCann Legal, PC today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a knowledgeable car accident attorney. Learn what steps you can take to put yourself in the best position to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.