An auto accident is the biggest nightmare for anyone who steps outside onto the road, whether you’re the one driving, a passenger, or even a pedestrian. An accident, big or small, can be scary and stressful, so you must always be aware of what you should and shouldn’t do when you’re in this situation.
There are a lot of legal terms that go behind an auto accident that an ordinary civilian might not be aware of. You need to know how insurance works and how to claim compensation for medical expenses or loss of income due to injuries. An experienced auto accident lawyer in New York can help you make the process easier. If you or your loved ones have been involved in an accident, keep reading to understand the dos and don’ts when it comes to the aftermath of an accident.
DO: Prioritize Safety First
Your number one priority should be to get to safety first. If you or anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, getting medical attention is required, as some symptoms may take hours or even days to appear.
If the accident is blocking traffic and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. However, if the accident is severe, it’s best to leave the vehicles as they are until law enforcement arrives.
DO: Call the Police and Get a Report
Regardless of the severity of the accident, always call the police. A police report is a vital piece of evidence that can help support your claim. Officers will document the scene, take statements from witnesses, and file an official report, which New York car accident attorneys can use to strengthen your case.
DO: Gather Evidence and Information
Collect as much information as possible at the scene. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, road conditions, and any other relevant details. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver but avoid discussing fault.
Additionally, gather names and contact information of any witnesses. Their statements could be crucial if liability is disputed.
DO: Seek Legal Help from an Auto Accident Lawyer in New York
One of the most important steps after an accident is consulting with an experienced auto accident lawyer in New York. Even if the case seems straightforward, having a legal expert on your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. A skilled lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
DO: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Make sure only to provide them with the required details but be careful about what you say. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, so it’s wise to consult with an attorney before giving a recorded statement.
DON’T: Admit Any Fault at the Scene
Do not admit fault, even if you think you may have contributed to the accident. Determining liability is a complicated process, because there may be factors you might be unaware of, such as the other driver’s negligence or external/environmental conditions. Let the experts handle the situations and determine who should actually be held responsible.
DON’T: Neglect Medical Treatment
If you fail to get medical attention, two things can happen. It will severely affect your health and your case. Here’s why: Some injuries might appear after some time, and they might have immediate symptoms. Putting off any medical treatment can also give insurance companies the upper hand, as they can say that your injuries are not due to the accident because you have no medical records of when the accident actually happened.
DON’T: Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements to close cases fast and save money. However, these initial offers are usually far less than what you are entitled to. Always consult with an auto accident lawyer in New York before accepting any settlement to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
DON’T: Delay Seeking Legal Representation
In New York, there are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. If you wait too long to contact an attorney, it can affect your case and make it difficult for you to get proper compensation for your damages. Seeking legal counsel from experienced New York car accident attorneys as soon as possible ensures you meet all legal deadlines and have a strong case.
In Conclusion
Following these dos and don’ts will help you navigate the legal process smoothly and increase your compensation.
If you or a loved one has been in an accident, don’t fight the legal battle alone. A good auto accident attorney in New York will fight for your rights, negotiate, and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
