What To Do After a Car Accident in New York City

Car accidents in New York City are unfortunately common. Whether you’re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, or Long Island, knowing what to do after a crash is essential. The right steps protect your health, comply with New York law, and strengthen your insurance or personal injury claim.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Stay at the Scene

• Do not leave – hit-and-run is a crime in New York City.
• Move vehicles to a safe area if possible and turn on hazard lights.
• If unsafe, get yourself and passengers to a secure spot.
• Stay calm and check for dangers like leaking fuel or fire.
• Do not move severely injured people unless they are in imminent danger.

Step 2: Call 911 and Check for Injuries

• New York law requires calling 911 if someone is hurt, killed, or if property damage is over $1,000.
• Emergency responders will secure the scene and prepare an official NYPD accident report – crucial for insurance and legal claims.
• Request medical help immediately, even for minor crashes.
• Cooperate with police, give accurate facts, and request a copy of the report.

Step 3: Document the NYC Accident Scene

If it’s safe, use your phone to capture:

• Vehicle damage, license plates, and positions.
• Skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions.
• Property damage to poles, guardrails, or sidewalks.
• Visible injuries.
• Check for NYC traffic cameras or business surveillance footage nearby.

Step 4: Exchange Information

New York law requires exchanging details with all drivers:

• Full name, address, and phone number.
• Driver’s license and issuing state.
• Insurance company and policy number.
• Vehicle make, model, year, and license plate.
• collect witness information and the responding officer’s badge number.
• Do not admit fault or apologize – it can hurt your case.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

• Many NYC car accident injuries (whiplash, concussions, internal bleeding) don’t appear immediately.
• Visit an ER, urgent care, or your doctor right away.
• Watch for delayed symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or back pain.
• Keep all medical records, bills, and notes on how your daily life is affected.

Step 6: File Reports and Notify Insurance

• Insurance Notification: Notify your insurer promptly, but don’t give statements to the other driver’s insurer without legal advice.
• No-Fault (PIP) Claim: Must be filed within 30 days. PIP covers up to $50,000 in medical costs, lost wages, and related expenses, regardless of fault.
• DMV Report (MV-104): File within 10 days if someone is injured, killed, or damages exceed $1,000, or risk suspension of your license.

Step 7: Preserve Evidence and Records

Keep a dedicated accident file with:

• Police and crash reports.
• Photos, videos, and surveillance footage.
• Medical bills and treatment notes.
• Repair estimates and receipts.
• Witness and officer contact info.
• All correspondence with insurers.

Key New York Car Accident Laws

• No-Fault Insurance (PIP): Covers up to $50,000 in medical and wage losses. You may sue if your injuries are “serious” (fractures, disfigurement, permanent disability, or death).
• Comparative Negligence: Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Distracted Driving Ban: Using a handheld phone while driving in NYC is illegal.
• Statute of Limitations: 3 years for personal injury lawsuits, 2 years for wrongful death, and 90 days for government vehicle claims.

Common NYC Car Accident Injuries

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions.
• Spinal cord and neck injuries.
• Broken bones and fractures.
• Internal bleeding and organ damage.
• Severe lacerations or scarring.
• Paralysis or long-term disability.
  Medical documentation is critical to prove your damages.

Protect Your Legal Rights in New York City

Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than your case is worth. An experienced New York City car accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the crash and gather evidence.
• Identify all liable parties.
• Handle negotiations with insurers.
• Calculate damages (medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering).
• Represent you in court if necessary.
  Most NYC car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee – you pay nothing unless you win.

Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari – NYC Car Accident Lawyers

• Offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County.
• No Fee Unless We Win – Our Fee Guarantee.
• Bilingual legal services available.
• Hundreds of 5-star client reviews.
• Award-winning lawyers (Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers).

Don’t Be a Victim Twice – Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462)
At Greenstein & Pittari, our experienced NYC personal injury attorneys handle car accident claims across New York. We fight to recover maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.