Long Island and NYC Car Accident Lawyers

Manhattan Insurance Claim Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious car accident, you are probably wondering what to do next. While each case is different, below are some general steps you should take to help protect yourself and your chances of success in filing a personal injury claim.

You’ve Been in an Accident — What Steps Should You Take?

Seek Medical Attention

Getting the appropriate medical care for yourself and others involved is your first concern. Your health is most important. Make sure your doctor documents carefully the extent of your injuries, as this testimony may be used when you are ready to file a lawsuit.

Take Pictures of the Accident Scene

If possible, it is important to take pictures of the scene of the accident (roadways, signage, position of any involved vehicles) and the damages to any vehicles involved.

Get a Copy of the Accident Report

If you were in a car accident, the accident report can provide valuable insight into the extent of the accident, including your injuries and damage to the vehicle. It can serve as valuable evidence in proving liability.

Get a Copy of Your Own Motor Vehicle Insurance Policy

In certain situations, you may be able to recover compensation from your own auto insurance policy. This is especially important if the negligent motorist was uninsured or underinsured. Knowing the ins and outs of your insurance policy can help maximize your recovery.

Keep an Injury Journal

Sometimes, the effects of serious injuries progress over time. Other injuries may not cause pain and suffering until months after the accident. Keeping a journal of your injuries provides written documentation of the effects you live with every day. It can serve as important evidence when filing your insurance claim.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Contact a skilled New York City and Long Island personal injury lawyer to ensure you have everything in place to eventually receive the full financial recovery you may be entitled to. The sooner a lawyer is contacted, the sooner the lawyer can begin investigating your auto crash case. Time is often of the essence, as evidence and memories may quickly fade.

In addition, talk to a lawyer before you speak with the insurance company. You have no obligation to speak with an insurance investigator, and doing so may actually hurt your chances of obtaining a full and fair recovery.

At Foley Griffin, LLP, we investigate the accident scene as quickly as we can and pursue all available evidence, including gathering key witness statements and accident scene photographs. In addition, our experienced New York City personal injury attorneys work with professional accident reconstructionists to help in the review all traces of evidence, the accident site and the structural and mechanical aspects of the vehicles involved in the accident.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident involving another car, truck, bus or motorcycle, please do not hesitate to contact us today.