At Musa-Obregon Law PC, our team of New York City Car Accidents Lawyers understands the complexities that follow an accident on the bustling streets of 5 boroughs. With expertise spanning over 30 years, we have guided countless clients through the aftermath of car crashes, considering factors such as immigration status and providing free consultations in both Spanish and English.
What To Do Immediately After a Car Crash in New York
Motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists are all too familiar with the risks associated with navigating the congested streets of New York City.
In 2022, there were 100,508 total car accidents over the course of the year, 37,848 of which involved an injury or fatality. Motor vehicle collisions are more likely to result in fatalities when accidents occur at high-speeds, or when they involve a motorcyclist, pedestrian, or bicyclists.
The aftermath of a car accident can be both scary and confusing, but taking the right steps is crucial. Here's a simple guide to follow:
1. Stay at the scene, but move to safety if possible.
- It's illegal to leave the scene of an accident before exchanging information in New York. Move your vehicle to a safe place if possible, ensuring the safety of yourself and passengers.
2. Seek medical care, if necessary.
- Call 911 if you feel unwell or suspect injuries. Even for minor accidents, seeing a doctor is advisable to document any injuries that may surface later.
3. Take photos and videos of the vehicle(s) and accident scene.
- Capture evidence of visible damage, the accident scene, skid marks, and any relevant details. These photos can be crucial in potential legal proceedings.
4. Call the police to file a report.
- Even for minor accidents, involving the police ensures an official record, which can be valuable when filing insurance claims.
5. Obtain insurance and contact information.
- Exchange details with other motorists involved, including names, addresses, license plate numbers, and insurance information. Collect information from witnesses if possible.
6. Call your insurance company to report the accident.
- Report the accident promptly to your insurance company, within 30 days at the latest, to expedite the claims process.
7. Call an experienced personal injury attorney.
- If you encounter challenges with insurance claims or experience unexpected injuries, seeking advice from a seasoned attorney is advisable. Our team at Musa-Obregon Law PC is here to guide you through your legal options. 24/7
New York Vehicle and Traffic Laws
Understanding New York's specific laws can be crucial in the aftermath of a car crash:
- Drivers Must Exercise Due Care: New York's Vehicle and Traffic Laws emphasize the need for drivers to exercise due care to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, and animals.
- No-Fault Insurance: New York requires drivers to have no-fault insurance, covering economic losses up to $50,000 regardless of fault. Consult with our attorneys to explore options beyond no-fault benefits.
- Comparative Negligence: New York follows comparative negligence, where fault can be shared among multiple parties based on the circumstances of the accident.
- Statute of Limitations: The statute of limitations for auto injury cases in New York is three years, emphasizing the importance of timely legal action.
At Musa-Obregon Law PC, our experienced team is ready to assist you. If you have questions or need guidance on your specific case, call our auto accident lawyers at 718 803 1000 for a free consultation. Your safety and legal rights matter, and we're here to help you navigate the complexities after a car crash in New York.