A car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, especially in high-traffic areas like New York City, Long Island, and The Hamptons. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can help protect your legal rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Be prepared for the unexpected. Download our Car Accident Checklist to keep in your glove compartment, so you know exactly what to do in an emergency.
Your safety—and the safety of others—is the top priority. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
In New York, you must report the accident to law enforcement if it involves injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. A police report is a critical piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
In a recent Long Island case, our client was rear-ended on the Long Island Expressway. The at-fault driver tried to deny liability, but because they followed proper steps—including calling the police and obtaining an official accident report—we successfully secured a six-figure settlement on their behalf.
Documenting the accident is essential for proving fault and securing compensation. If you are physically able, collect the following:
Tip: If your car is in a high-traffic area like Times Square or Route 27 in The Hamptons, use video recording to document road conditions and traffic signals.
If the other driver appeared intoxicated, notify law enforcement immediately. Drunk driving accidents can have serious legal consequences, and proving impairment is crucial for your claim. Learn more about your rights in these situations by reading DWI vs. DUI in New York: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Rights.
Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) may not show symptoms right away. Seeking prompt medical care ensures proper documentation, strengthens your injury claim, and helps prevent long-term health issues.
A client involved in a T-bone accident in Nassau County declined immediate medical treatment but later developed severe back pain. The insurance company initially refused to pay, arguing there was no documented injury at the scene. However, our firm proved delayed-onset injuries were linked to the crash, resulting in a successful claim.
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide factual details but avoid admitting fault—liability should be determined after a full investigation. If you need assistance navigating auto accident claims, an experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights.
Important: New York follows a No-Fault Insurance System, meaning your own insurance typically covers medical bills and lost wages. However, if your injuries are severe, you may be eligible to pursue additional compensation beyond no-fault benefits.
If you’ve suffered injuries or property damage, speaking with a car accident attorney can be crucial to securing fair compensation. At Vlahadamis Law, we represent accident victims across NYC, Long Island, and The Hamptons, handling cases involving:
Not every injury qualifies for a lawsuit under New York law. Learn more about the serious injury threshold and how it may affect your case.
Want to learn how to maximize your compensation after an accident? Read our guide on Understanding Personal Injury Claims: How to Maximize Your Compensation.
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