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A Data Backed Guide From Trusted Long Island and NYC Personal Injury Lawyers
Car accidents happen every day across Long Island and New York City. More than 300,000 motor vehicle crashes occur statewide each year, according to the New York State DMV.
The New York State Comptroller reported 1,175 traffic fatalities in 2022, the highest number in nearly a decade.
These statistics highlight how common and serious collisions can be on roads like the Long Island Expressway, Northern State Parkway, Southern State Parkway, Sunrise Highway, Belt Parkway, Brooklyn Queens Expressway, Queens Boulevard, and local streets throughout Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, Kings, Manhattan, and the Bronx.
Knowing what steps to take after a crash protects your health, your legal rights, and your future claim. Follow this simple, effective, data supported checklist created by experienced New York car accident lawyers.
Step 1: Check for Injuries
Make sure everyone is safe. Many injuries do not appear immediately due to shock and adrenaline.
If anyone is hurt or unsure whether they are hurt, call emergency medical personnel right away. Fast treatment protects both your health and your legal claim.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Many New Yorkers experience injuries that develop hours or days later, including
- Neck and back injuries
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Head trauma
- Fractures
- Shoulder and knee injuries
- Nerve damage
- Soft tissue injuries
Always seek a medical evaluation to document your symptoms properly.
Step 2: Move to Safety
Secondary crashes happen often on busy roads. Before moving your vehicle, take photos or video of the vehicles exactly as they are. This helps establish liability later. Once documented, move the vehicle to a safe area if possible.
Step 3: File a Police Report
Always file a police report, even for minor collisions. Accident data shows that proper documentation is one of the strongest predictors of a successful insurance or personal injury claim.
When speaking with police, give your account directly. Do not rely on others to explain what happened.
Step 4: Document Everything
The more information you collect, the stronger your claim becomes. Gather the following:
- Names and contact information of all drivers
- Insurance information
- A photo of the other driver’s license
- License plate numbers
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Photos and videos of :
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks
- Road and weather conditions
- Traffic signals
- Injuries
New York has tens of thousands of disputed claims each year. Proper documentation protects you.
Understanding No Fault Insurance in New York
New York is a no fault insurance state, meaning your own insurance company may cover:
- Medical bills
- Transportation to medical appointments
- A portion of lost wages
- Some out of pocket expenses
No fault does not cover pain and suffering. You may pursue a claim against the at fault driver if you meet the New York “serious injury” threshold. Our team handles all no fault paperwork and deadlines for you.
What NOT To Do After a Car Accident
Avoid these common mistakes that can damage your case:
✘ Do not admit fault
✘ Do not apologize
✘ Do not leave without exchanging information
✘ Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies
✘ Do not accept a quick settlement
✘ Do not post about the accident on social media
✘ Do not delay medical treatment
When You Should Call a Car Accident Lawyer
Call an attorney if:
- You were injured
- The insurance company is disputing fault
- The police report is inaccurate
- Your vehicle is totaled
- The other driver is uninsured or underinsured
- You are overwhelmed or unsure of the next steps
Victims who hire experienced counsel often recover significantly more compensation than those who handle claims alone.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Therapy or rehabilitation
- Out of pocket expenses
Our attorneys explore every avenue of recovery to maximize your compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Car Accidents
How long do I have to file a claim?
New York has strict deadlines. Certain claims must be filed quickly and lawsuits must be brought within the statute of limitations. Contact an attorney immediately.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine?
Yes. Injuries often develop later and medical records are essential evidence.
Can I still recover money if I was partially at fault?
Yes. New York uses comparative negligence, meaning compensation can still be awarded based on the percentage of fault.
What if the other driver is uninsured?
Your uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Our team handles these claims regularly.
How much does it cost to hire The Bongiorno Law Firm?
There are no upfront costs. You do not pay unless we win.
Contact The Bongiorno Law Firm 24 7
Once you take the immediate steps above, let us handle everything else.
Insurance companies often try to minimize injuries, shift blame, or pressure victims into low settlements. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can protect you.
Call us any time at (516) 741 4170 for experienced legal help.
At The Bongiorno Law Firm, We Care. We Fight. You Win.
