Traffic accidents are a serious problem in New York State, where about 1,000 people die and another 11,000 are seriously hurt in motor vehicle accidents every year. That’s about one severe injury every 48 minutes. Because they’re such an ever-present danger, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the steps you need to take after a car accident in New York—and how you can pursue fair compensation for your injuries. You may want to print and keep a copy of this post in your glovebox, just in case.
Contact the Authorities
One of the first steps you should take after a car accident in New York includes reporting the crash to law enforcement. You can report the accident to the police by calling 911 (if someone has suffered injuries) or contacting the law enforcement department through their non-emergency number by calling 311. Drivers must also file an accident report with the DMV after an accident that results in fatalities, injuries, or damage to one party’s property worth more than $1,000. If the police respond to the accident scene, remember to obtain a copy of the police crash report after the accident.
Document the Accident
Take time to document the accident scene. You can use your cell phone to take photos and videos of vehicle damage, skid marks on the road, traffic signs/signals, and weather/visibility/traffic conditions. Remember to get insurance information from the other drivers involved in the accident. If you speak to any eyewitnesses about the crash, get their contact information or ask them for a brief description of what they observed.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident to get checked for any injuries you may have sustained in the crash. The adrenaline rush of a car accident can mask pain or other symptoms of injuries for hours or days following a crash. However, a doctor can diagnose injuries you suffered in a car accident by examining you. The sooner you seek medical attention after a car accident, the stronger of a case you will have to link your injuries to the accident. Remember to follow your doctor’s treatment plan and recovery instructions.
Keep Records
Gather records to document your injuries and losses/expenses from the car accident. Request copies of your medical records of your accident injury treatment and rehabilitation. Keep all bills, invoices, or receipts for medical care or vehicle repairs. Gather copies of your pay stubs or income statements if you need to miss time from work due to your injuries or if medical restrictions require you to take a lower-paying modified duty position.
Notify Your Auto Insurance Provider
Report the accident to your car insurance company as soon as possible. In New York, you can obtain compensation for medical bills and lost wages through your insurance policy’s personal injury protection coverage.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
Hurt in a car accident in New York? Then get the legal help you need to pursue financial recovery for your expenses or losses. Contact Campbell & Associates today for a free, no-obligation consultation with our legal team, and let’s take the next steps together.
