Being involved in a car accident in New York City can be overwhelming. Between traffic, police reports, insurance calls, and possible injuries, it’s hard to know what to do next.
If you’re asking, “What should I do after a car accident in NYC?”, the steps you take immediately — and in the days that follow — can significantly impact your health, legal rights, and compensation.
At Redmond Law Firm PLLC, we regularly guide accident victims through this process. Below is a clear, practical checklist to protect yourself after a NYC car accident.
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
In New York City, you should always call 911 after a car accident — especially if anyone is injured.
Police officers will:
- Secure the scene
- Document what happened
- Create an official accident report
This report is critical evidence for insurance claims and personal injury cases.
- NYPD Collision Reporting: https://www.nyc.gov/site/nypd/services/vehicles-property/collision-reporting.page
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “okay,” some injuries take hours or days to appear, including:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Back and spinal injuries
Prompt medical treatment:
- Protects your health
- Creates a clear record linking injuries to the accident
- Prevents insurance companies from disputing your claim
Mayo Clinic – Symptoms After Car Accidents: https://www.mayoclinic.org
3. Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe to do so, collect evidence at the scene:
- Take photos of vehicles, damage, road conditions, and traffic signs
- Get names and contact information of witnesses
- Exchange insurance and driver information
This documentation can be invaluable later.
4. Do Not Admit Fault or Give Recorded Statements
Avoid:
- Apologizing
- Speculating about what caused the accident
- Giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters
Insurance companies may use your words against you to reduce or deny your claim.
5. File Required Insurance Reports
In New York:
- Accidents involving injuries or significant damage must be reported
- No-fault insurance claims have strict deadlines
Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your benefits.
- New York State Department of Motor Vehicles – Accident Reporting: https://dmv.ny.gov
6. Understand New York’s No-Fault Insurance Law
New York is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance covers:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages (up to policy limits)
However, serious injuries may allow you to step outside no-fault and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Learn more about your options with a
NYC car accident lawyer
7. Contact a NYC Car Accident Lawyer as Soon as Possible
Speaking with a lawyer early helps:
- Preserve evidence
- Handle insurance communications
- Calculate full damages (medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering)
- Protect you from insurance tactics
Most reputable firms, including Redmond Law Firm, offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
Related guide:
How Long After an Accident Should You Get a Lawyer?
8. Avoid Posting About the Accident on Social Media
Insurance companies often monitor social media. Posts, photos, or comments can be taken out of context and used against you.
9. Keep All Records and Expenses
Save copies of:
- Medical bills
- Repair estimates
- Prescription receipts
- Time missed from work
These documents support your compensation claim.
Why Following These Steps Matters
Failing to act properly after a car accident can result in:
- Denied insurance claims
- Reduced settlements
- Missed legal deadlines
- Paying medical bills out of pocket
A structured approach protects your rights and strengthens your case.
Final Checklist: What to Do After a Car Accident in NYC
- Call 911 and get a police report
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene and injuries
- Avoid admitting fault
- File insurance reports on time
- Speak with a NYC car accident lawyer
Talk to a NYC Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you don’t have to navigate the process alone.
Contact Redmond Law Firm PLLC for a free consultation.
No upfront fees. No recovery, no fee.