Any car crash is bound to be a distressing experience, and it is important to know what to do if you have been involved in one. Understanding the law and taking the appropriate steps will help you secure your safety, protect your rights, and mitigate any potential disputes in court. Getting in a car accident in a place like Queens, New York may have certain laws which govern the procedure to be followed in a car accident. We have outlined them below:
Call for Immediate Assistance
Depending on the severity of the accident, you should call for immediate assistance from the police and medical professionals. It’s best to make sure you are alright before you make any rash decisions. If necessary, you should also check on other drivers and passengers if they’re okay and offer assistance. Ideally, a medical report, even when your injuries are only trivial, will be useful later when pursuing compensation claims. Having all this information can help you build a strong case.
File a Report
In New York, the law requires you to file an accident report with the police if the property damage exceeds $1,000 or if any personal injury or fatality is reported. This report is time sensitive (within 10 days of the incident) and must be filed with the DMV. It is also important to obtain a copy of the report for your records and insurance claims. This report will lay out specific details that can help you in a court of law. It’s also a trustworthy source as the people writing them are typically law enforcement.
Exchange Information and Document the Scene
If you’re able to do so, you should exchange information with the other drivers involved. This includes contact and insurance details, as well as license plate numbers of the cars involved in the accident. If possible, take photographs of the scene to document the damage caused, as this could also help with any insurance claims or court proceedings. Make sure you are just sticking with basic questions while going through these exchanges. Anything you say, especially in front of other witnesses, can be used against you. Try to keep a level head at this time.
Contact Your Insurer
Remember, you must contact your insurer to inform them of the incident as soon as possible, regardless of who is at fault. If you are unsure about the coverage your policy provides in such a situation, speak directly to an agent to verify your options. Typically, your insurance company is likely to send an adjuster to assess the damages and determine who is liable. They will give you all the details necessary to understand what your insurance is willing to cover and what may have to come out of your pocket.
Seek Legal Advice
Perhaps the most important step to take is to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer. If you are faced with a personal injury claim and any other litigation related to your car accident in Queens or are experiencing challenges with insurers, an experienced attorney in New York can provide invaluable assistance and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. Since they’re well-versed in the laws and regulations of the state, they can guide any legal proceedings that may arise from the incident. In the event of negligence, they can also help to build a strong case and ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.
Conclusion
New York, like most other states, has predefined legal standards and procedures that need to be followed in the event of a car accident. Knowing what to do and seeking legal advice is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled. At the end of the day, it is important to remember that taking quick and decisive action is key for successful claims. Keeping track of these details can be tedious but it will benefit you in the long run.
