What To Expect After Your First Car Accident in New York

Getting in a car wreck for the first time is a terrifying experience, but unfortunately it happens to most people at some point in their lives. In 2022, there were just under 6 million car accidents in the United States. You will feel shock, adrenaline, fear, and confusion following a first time accident. If you have never been in a car accident, you may not know what steps you need to take. It is important to know what to expect so you protect yourself and feel less stressed. This guide will help you understand the key steps to take after an accident and what to expect so there are no unexpected surprises.

Check For Injuries

Immediately after a car accident, you need to check all persons involved in the accident for injuries. You will have an adrenaline rush but try to stay calm and ensure emergency services are called if there are injuries. Even if injuries are minimal, it is recommended that you call 911 and are assessed by a doctor. Some injuries from car accidents can be delayed or not be visible. A doctor can give you a thorough examination and make sure there are no life threatening injuries.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

After confirming everyone is safe, you will need to exchange information with the other driver. This includes insurance information, your name, and your contact information. You and the other driver must exercise a duty of care by stopping after the accident to share information even if there are no apparent damages. If you don’t do this, it would be considered a hit-and-run accident and the consequences would be more significant. You should note that you should never talk with the other drivers insurance without legal advice from a car accident attorney.

Document the Accident

Documenting the accident is crucial to protect yourself regardless of if you are at fault or not. Part of the documentation process is obtaining a police report of the incident. If there is damage to any vehicles involved, calling the police at the scene of the crash is crucial. The police report will include witness statements that can help prove fault. Additionally, you should take pictures of the accident as further evidence to show to your insurance and or the court if the case were to go to trial. If possible, obtain the witness’s contact information also.

Contact Your Insurance

The next important step to take after a car crash is to let your insurance provider know about the crash. Give them all the information you collected at the scene of the crash so they can come up with an accurate settlement amount. You only have 24 hours following the crash to report it to your insurance in New York, so don’t wait. Do not immediately accept any amount they tell you. Insurance companies will always try to short you on the amount of payment you are owed, so you must do your due diligence in investigating the matter yourself before accepting an offer.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

If you have never been in a car crash or never had to hire a lawyer before, it may feel like an extreme or excessive thing to do. However, if there is excessive damage to property and or injuries sustained from the crash, a lawyer is an essential resource to use after a crash. They will help you negotiate with insurance adjusters and the other driver. They will also know the appropriate value your damages and injuries are worth, so insurers can’t take advantage of you.