Author: Sackstein, Sackstein & Lee, LLP
Being involved in a NY auto accident is an unnerving experience. However, it is important that you do your best to stay calm and gather as much information as possible to prove and document your case. And taking these few simple steps immediately following the accident can make a big difference in your case’s outcome.
- Remain at the scene. Leaving the scene of an accident can have serious legal ramifications. In fact, new legislation has been introduced in New York that would increase the penalties for doing so.
- Call the police. If an accident has occurred, call the police right away to report it. If the accident is severe, call 911 so that emergency personnel can be dispatched to the scene immediately to handle any potential dangers and medical emergencies.
- Do not move victims or allow anyone else to do so. Moving victims may cause further injury so you should wait for emergency medical personnel to help injured victims.
- Unless they are obstructing traffic, do not move vehicles. If you are concerned about other motorists, place cones or flares around the scene.
- If you are injured, stay in your vehicle and do not allow others to move you. If you have sustained an injury during the accident it is best to wait for emergency medical personnel to evaluate your condition.
- Do not make admissions of responsibility for the accident or discuss it with other motorists. By discussing the accident you open yourself up to possible legal liability.
- Get medical treatment as soon as possible. If your injuries are severe, and obvious emergency medical personnel will transport you to a medical facility. However, some injuries do not manifest immediately, so even if you feel all right see a doctor as soon as possible to ensure you have not sustained any injuries.
- Exchange information with the drivers, passengers and witnesses. Although you should not discuss the particulars of the accident, you should get the names, addresses, phone numbers, license numbers, and insurance information of those involved.
- Take photos and make notes of the accident. The details to note and photograph, if possible include: time of day, weather and road conditions, street lighting, location of vehicles, traffic signals and signage. You may also want to note for yourself the sequence of events as you recall them.
- Contact an attorney. A New York auto accident can be a highly emotional experience but it also has legal aspects which must be addressed immediately. Consult with your attorney to get advice on how best to proceed.Injured in a New York Auto Accident? Contact Sackstein Sackstein & Lee, LLP
Injured in a New York Auto Accident? Contact Sackstein Sackstein & Lee, LLP
- If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in New York because of another’s negligence you should talk to an attorney immediately. Our experienced New York car accident law firm offers a free consultation to discuss your case and determine your legal options. Contact Sackstein, Sackstein & Lee, LLP today at 888-519-6400.