A car accident is an unexpected, terrifying event that can leave you confused and shaken. If you are in Queens, you must know that it is one of the most populous cities in the US. In 2023, New York reported five car accidents every hour on average, out of which 30% took place in Queens.
After getting involved in an accident, it becomes difficult to know what to do now. If you are injured, your main focus is to get help instead of thinking about who was responsible for the accident and how you can compensate for your loss.
However, the steps you take during the aftermath of the accident can significantly affect your ability to get compensation, especially if you delay making a claim. In Queens Car accident lawyer knows your rights and makes a legal claim to help your recovery.
If you face a car crash in Queens, here are the 7 right steps to take if possible:
1. Call Medical Help
If you are injured in the accident, call 911 immediately and seek medical help. By the time help arrives, don’t perform any First Aid if you are not trained in it, and don’t move an immobile or unconscious person unless needed to save his/her life.
Even if you are feeling fine and can walk around, visit a doctor within a couple of days. They will examine you and order a few tests to ensure that everything is fine. Sometimes, you may not feel the symptoms immediately after the accident, but they may arise in a day or two.
2. Call The Police
You must call the police if your accident involves property damage or personal injury. When the police arrive, give a thorough statement about the happenings from your perspective. If you are hospitalized, get the police report copy later. If any piece of information is incomplete or incorrect, you can provide them with the complete details. Your attorney may also correct the misinformation or get a report copy on your behalf.
3. Exchange Information
According to the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, you must exchange information with the other driver involved in the auto accident, including your driver's license details, insurance details, and registration. While exchanging information, it's wise not to discuss your policy limits and not discuss who was at fault.
4. Collect Evidence
Right after the vehicle accident, try to take photos of the scene, including the vehicle's damage, road condition, and damage to any other property. Take contact information of other witnesses present at the scene. Note down all the details of the incident, such as traffic, weather, etc.
5. File A Report Of The Accident
If the loss is worth more than $1,000, you need to fill the MV-104 form, Report of Motor Vehicle Accident and give it to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. The said form is available online at the DMV website.
6. Inform Your Insurance Company
Since New York is a 'no fault' state for car accidents, you must inform your insurer immediately after the incident. Doing this will be the best way to keep your rights protected under the insurance policy. Most insurers will want this notification as soon as possible following the car accident.
7. Contact A Car Accident Lawyer
The sooner you contact a Queens car accident lawyer, the earlier they can start working on your case. Collecting evidence while it is still fresh from the vehicle crash can help get quick cash from your insurance company.
The best tip is to call your lawyer before talking to your insurance company, signing any documents, or accepting any money offer. A qualified lawyer will help in getting the advice and protecting your rights without making any mistakes. In Queens, get in touch with an experienced lawyer specializing in handling car accident claims and cases for long.
