A car accident can change your life in an instant. From the initial shock of the crash to the uncertainty of what to do next, victims often feel overwhelmed, frightened, and unsure of how to protect themselves. In New York, the laws surrounding car accidents are specific and strict. Knowing the proper steps to take after an accident is critical—not only for your safety but also for protecting your right to financial recovery.
For over 14 years, the car accident attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg have helped accident victims throughout New York navigate the toll of an auto accident. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or financial, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Quick Links
- Ensure Your Safety and Call 911
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Collect Evidence at the Scene
- Call Your Insurance Company to Report the Accident
- Statute of Limitations in New York for Auto Injury Cases
- Why You Should Contact Meirowitz & Wasserberg as Your New York Car Accident Lawyer
- Am I Eligible to File an Accident Claim for Injuries?
- Get Legal Help For Your Car Accident Injury in NY
"After an accident, always call 911 and seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel hurt right away."
Ensure Your Safety and Call 911
Your priority after any accident should be safety. Move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and check yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, avoid moving anyone who appears seriously injured unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire.
Once you are safe, call 911 immediately. New York law requires reporting accidents that result in injury or significant property damage. Calling 911 ensures that medical help arrives quickly and that law enforcement can create an official report, which may become a vital piece of evidence for your insurance claim or personal injury case.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Medical records play a crucial role in proving the link between the accident and your injuries. Without them, insurance companies may argue that the accident didn’t cause your injuries. Some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
Even if you feel fine, it is essential to consult a medical professional as soon as possible. Delaying medical treatment can endanger your health and potentially weaken your claim. By seeking immediate medical care, you protect both your health and your legal rights.
"A lot of times people don't realize in the heat of the moment when they're in shock, they're often not even feeling the pain until later."
Report the Accident
Reporting your accident is a crucial step toward financial recovery. A report documents when the crash occurred and who was involved, strengthening your claim for both liability and potential compensation.
Call the Police To Report the Accident
In New York, you must call the police if the accident results in injury or death. An officer will document the scene, gather witness statements, and file a police report. This report serves as an official record of the accident, which can help establish fault and support your claim.
File an Accident Report With the DMV
New York law also requires drivers to file a Motor Vehicle Accident Report (Form MV-104) with the Department of Motor Vehicles if the crash causes more than $1,000 in property damage. You must file this form within 10 days of the collision, or you risk having your driver’s license suspended.
Download the form here.
"If you're able to, take pictures of the scene, take video of the scene."
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene:
- Take clear photos of all vehicles involved, showing damage from multiple angles.
- Capture images of skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any debris.
- Ask witnesses for their names and contact information.
- Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver(s).
This evidence can be critical in proving liability and supporting your compensation claim.
Call Your Insurance Company to Report the Accident
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide basic facts such as the time, location, and parties involved, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened. Stick to the facts and let the investigation determine responsibility.
"If there's somebody there that saw what happened, make sure you get their name and phone number."
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance Law
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own insurance policy will cover up to $50,000 of economic losses—such as medical bills and lost wages—regardless of who caused the accident. However, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit if you suffered a serious injury or your damages exceed the no-fault limits.
New York also follows comparative negligence, which means that even if you are partly at fault, you may still recover compensation. Your award will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
Statute of Limitations in New York for Auto Injury Cases
In New York, accident victims typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is two years. While this may sound like plenty of time, quick action is imperative. Evidence fades, witnesses can become harder to locate, and insurance companies are notorious for delays. Filing early helps protect your rights and ensures your case is built on the strongest evidence possible.
"Notice whether or not there happened to be any video cameras in the area."
Why You Should Contact Meirowitz & Wasserberg as Your New York Car Accident Lawyer
While it is possible to handle a car accident claim on your own, having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, delay claims, or deny responsibility altogether. Our attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can:
- Handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Negotiate aggressively to maximize your settlement.
- File a lawsuit if necessary and represent you in court.
- Ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and comply with all procedural requirements.
Meirowitz & Wasserberg Auto Accident Settlements & Verdicts
Our proven track record demonstrates our commitment to helping clients secure justice:
- $1,175,000 for a client in a three-car collision that caused a ruptured aorta and spinal paralysis.
- $725,000 for a pedestrian struck by a commercial truck, requiring cervical fusion surgery.
- $305,000 for a driver injured by a rented vehicle that ran a stop sign, resulting in spinal injuries.
- $100,000 for a young pedestrian struck in a crosswalk, suffering a thoracic spine injury.
"You need to call a lawyer, because a lawyer is going to be able to protect you and make sure that your relations and conversations with the insurance company are in your best interest."
What Our Auto Accident Injury Clients Are Saying
Our clients’ voices speak volumes:
- “The lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg helped me tremendously after I was in a serious car accident. They were able to get everything I needed covered for my recovery and were always there to answer my questions. Thank you!” – Molly, Google Review
- “Thanks to Veronica Diaz and Aron with there non stop hard work on getting us the results we deserved. Very communicative and also engaged and kept with the updates. I appreciate you guys, thank you so much.” – Muse Tunez, Google Review
- “I had the privilege of working with Meirowitz & Wasserberg law office after a car accident left me with significant injuries. Their team demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, empathy, and expertise throughout every step of the process.”– M. Spenser, Google Review
- “Meirowitz & Wasserberg offered professional and thorough services after my accident. They walked me through the entire process and made sure that all my questions were answered. I would highly recommend using them for any of your legal needs.” – Teagan Ballard, Google Review
Am I Eligible to File an Accident Claim for Injuries?
The eligibility of your claim depends on the unique details of your accident, the severity of your injuries, and the damages you’ve suffered. New York’s no-fault insurance covers many claims. Still, if your injuries meet the legal definition of “serious” or your costs exceed policy limits, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. The best way to determine eligibility is to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options.
"I can't stress the importance enough of third party, non interested party witnesses."
Get Legal Help For Your Car Accident Injury in NY
A car accident can leave you overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of your next steps. At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, we understand the challenges you’re facing. Let our experienced attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on recovery.
Call us today at 800-726-6326 ext. 123 or contact us online for a free consultation. Take the first step toward rebuilding your life.
