If statistics hold true, one out of every four people will be in a motor vehicle accident at least once in their life. While getting injured is not something that occurs every day, it does happen. And, being involved in an accident often throws your life into a tailspin — not knowing how to deal with physical, emotional and financial concerns.
At TROLMAN GLASER CORLEY & LICHTMAN, P.C., our personal injury attorneys are in the business of helping car accident injury victims. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident and don’t know where to turn for help, we are prepared to help.Contact us today online or by telephone at (888) 627-4274 to speak with an experienced Bronx car accident lawyer.
STEPS TO TAKE AFTER AN ACCIDENT
By taking these steps immediately after a car accident and in the days following, you can protect yourself legally if your injury was a result of someone else’s negligence:
- Contact the police. Immediately following an accident call the police to file an accident report. You may think that you can resolve it yourself, but the damages to yourself and your car may be more serious than it seems. It is important to have an official record of the accident.
- Do not move your car until the police tell you to. Unless the accident is blocking traffic and must be moved, wait until the police arrive on the scene. If you do have to move your car, take pictures before you do — leaving a disposable camera in your car is a great way to be prepared should an accident occur. A cell phone camera will also work.
- Get the names of any witnesses. You never know if the accident may lead to legal action, so it is important to document everything you can. Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of any potential witnesses before they leave the scene.
- Collect insurance information. Write down the other party’s insurance information, including the insurance company’s name and policy number. Be sure to take down the other driver’s name. Note where the accident took place. And, take pictures of both vehicles.
- Do not admit responsibility. Only discuss the accident with the police, and even then, never admit fault — even if you think you were to blame, because you could be wrong. Admitting fault will be used against you by the insurance company.
- Seek medical attention. While you may think that you are not hurt, some injuries are not always immediately noticeable. Keep a record of everything the doctor tells you — your diagnosis, prescribed treatment and any concerns the doctor may have. Be sure to get copies of any papers the doctor has.
- Notify your insurance carrier. As a no-fault insurance state, insurance providers in New York will cover the costs of initial medical treatment.
- Follow through with what your doctor says. If your doctor prescribes medication, take it. If he or she recommends physical therapy, make an appointment — and keep it. Do everything your doctor tells you and be sure to follow up with him or her.
WE FIGHT. YOU WIN.
Do not talk to the insurance adjuster before talking to a personal injury attorney. Insurance adjusters, no matter how helpful they seem, are not out to protect you — they are out to protect their employer, the insurance company. Do not sign anything from the other party’s insurance company until you speak with an experienced New York car accident lawyer.
If you or a loved one has been injured by another person's carelessness or negligence, we will stand up for your rights. Contact us today online or by telephone at (888) 627-4274 to speak with an experienced New York personal injury attorney. If your injury prevents you from coming to our law office, we will visit you at the hospital or your home.