Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re injured. If you’re injured, you may be entitled to compensation, especially when the accident results from the other party’s negligence. However, what you do after an accident can impact how much compensation you can claim. In New York, Alex Yadgarov & Associates has decades of experience as an accident lawyer in New York. In this post, let’s look at 10 steps you can take to protect your claim and receive the compensation you deserve.
What Steps Should You Take to Protect Your Claim?
1 – Move to a Safe Location If You Can
If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of oncoming traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Don’t move anyone who is injured unless they are in immediate danger. Stay within the vicinity of the accident scene until the police and medical professionals arrive.
2 – Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
Get yourself checked out, even if you feel fine. That’s because some injuries don’t show symptoms right away, and adrenaline can mask the pain. Immediate medical attention prevents complications and protects your health. The medical records can be used as evidence to substantiate your injuries.
3 – Exchange Contact Information with the Other Driver
Make sure to collect the following details of every driver involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license information
- Insurance company and policy details
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- License plate number
4 – Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe, take photographs and videos of the accident scene. Make sure to document:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs and signals
- Visible injuries
- Skid marks and debris
- The surrounding area
5 – Get a Copy of the Police Accident Report
A police report is an important piece of evidence. It can provide an unbiased, third-party perspective of the accident. This will be important when establishing liability in the accident. Obtaining a copy usually means filing an application online or obtaining a copy from the precinct of the officer who responded to the accident.
6 – Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company and notify them about the accident. Since New York is a no-fault state, you can receive compensation for certain economic losses (medical expenses, lost wages), regardless of your fault in the accident.
But keep in mind that no-fault insurance claims have strict deadlines. If you’re unsure what to do, an accident lawyer in NYC can explain.
7 – Keep Records of Your Injuries and Expenses
Start a file and keep the following records:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Prescription receipts
- Transportation costs related to treatments
- Repair estimates
- Documents detailing missed work and income
8 – Be Careful About What You Say After the Crash
Be extremely careful about what you say and do after an accident. That’s because the other side can use it to shift the blame and reduce your compensation. Avoid:
- Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene
- Guessing about what happened
- Speculating about your injuries.
- Posting about the accident on social media.
9 – Don’t Accept a Settlement Without Understanding Your Claim
Insurance companies will be quick to offer a settlement and point out that it is a limited-time offer. Should you accept the first settlement offer? Not necessarily.
Early offers don’t always reflect the full extent of your losses. Insurance companies hope that the allure of quick money will get you to accept. Once you sign the settlement agreement, you will lose the right to pursue future legal action. So make sure you fully understand what you’re agreeing to before you sign anything.
10 – Consider Speaking with an NYC Car Accident Lawyer
When in doubt, speak to a New York car accident lawyer. That’s because a lawyer will:
- Review the situation and explain your options.
- Determine the full extent of the damages suffered
- Handle communications with the insurance company
- Handle all documentation and filing
- If required, take the case to court and fight for your compensation
Conclusion
The path to compensation after a crash is straightforward—safety first, then medical care, documentation, reporting, insurance, and legal advice when needed. Every step you take protects your claim and helps you get the compensation you deserve. If you’re injured in a car accident and need legal advice, Alex Yadgarov & Associates is here for you. Contact us today and schedule your free consultation.
