Post-Crash Checklist After a New York Car Accident

Car accidents are a far too frequent reality throughout New York, but you may not realize the extent of the problem until you learn a few key statistics. According to the New York State Department of Health, almost 1,100 residents are killed in traffic crashes every year, at a rate of 5.6 people for every 100,000 New Yorkers. Plus, on an annual basis, 12,100 are hospitalized and another 136,913 people visit an emergency room for injury-causing auto accidents.

If you were injured in such an incident, you know the overwhelming range of physical and emotional implications. You’ll be traumatized and shaken up, so it’s tough to think clearly about what to do next. A post-crash checklist should help you navigate the confusion until you retain a New York car accident attorney for assistance with the details.

1. Pull Over Safely: This first item is obvious for safety reasons, since your first responsibility as a driver is to get to a secure location and out of the way of dangerous traffic conditions. Plus, you need to understand the potential criminal implications for not complying with state requirements regarding your duty when you’re involved in a crash. Under New York law on leaving the scene of an accident, you must stop, and exchange information with any other motorists when you’re involved in an injury-causing collision.

2. Assess Injuries: When you’re safely out of harm’s way, you should check yourself for injuries and ask other occupants about their own conditions. Keep in mind that some forms of bodily harm are visible, while others may require additional investigation. Whiplash, spinal cord trauma, and other soft tissue injuries may not be obvious. In your conversation with other motorists, you should ask whether there are any injuries – but don’t admit fault or apologize.

3. Call 911: If you, occupants of your vehicle, or any other individuals have suffered injuries, you need to dial 911 for help. You can also opt to call the non-emergency number if the crash was minor or only involved property damage to respective vehicles. Requesting assistance also means responding officials must prepare an accident report, which can be a source of evidence when you file a claim.

4. Seek Proper Medical Care: It’s important to get treatment right away, though your options may vary depending on the severity of your injuries. You should head to the emergency room immediately if:

• You lost consciousness;

• You’re bleeding excessively;

• You have shortness of breath; or,

• You have other symptoms of life-threatening injuries.


For other types of trauma, an urgent care center may be appropriate. In any event, make sure to visit your own doctor within 72 hours after a car accident.

5. Document the Scene: Depending on the nature and severity of your injuries, you may be in an ideal position to gather essential evidence to support your claim. Whenever possible, try to get pictures of the scene, all vehicles, surrounding conditions, and any other details you think may be relevant.

6. Stick to the Basics in Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurer: You’ll need to file paperwork with the responsible motorist’s insurance company to initiate the claims process, but it’s critical that you only provide the basics. Be brief and factual when completing any forms or discussing your situation with an insurance adjuster. Never sign a release and do NOT give consent to have your statements recorded.

7. Create an Accident Journal: As soon as possible after a car accident, you should start recordkeeping of all essential details. The New York statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is three years, so many important facts and recollections can become blurry over time. In your journal, make a point to include:

• All information you gathered from the scene;

• Your experiences with recovering from your injuries;

• How your injuries have affected your personal life;

• Whether your injuries impact your ability to do your job; and,

• Any other notations that may be relevant to your losses.


8. Consult with an Experienced New York Car Accident Attorney Right Away

From the other items on your checklist, you can see how it’s important to get solid advice and counsel from a skilled auto crash lawyer. You’re at a disadvantage if you attempt to negotiate a settlement with an insurance company on your own, and things don’t get easier if you need to take your claim to court. Our team at The Mandel Law Firm has extensive experience representing clients in motor vehicle accident claims, so please call our Manhattan office at (646) 770-3868 or visit us online to set up a free case assessment today.

Related Content:

• NYC car accident lawyers
• NYC personal injury lawyers

About the Author:

Steven Mandel