Car Accident 101: 4 Steps to Prepare and Respond to a Crash

Written by
Abraham Jaros
|
Updated on Sunday, Oct 22, 2023

Even minor car accidents can leave serious property damage and debilitating injuries in their wake. No matter how responsible drivers may be, they cannot control the actions of other road users.

Driver negligence is one of the main causes of roadway injuries and fatalities. Driving under the influence and distracted driving are particularly dangerous. If you were injured due to another person’s reckless or negligent behavior, then Jaroslawicz & Jaros PLLC can help. A New York City personal-injury lawyer from our firm can evaluate your case, explain your rights and fight for the maximum compensation. To start planning your claim, call our office today at 212.227.2780. In the meantime, here are four steps to help you prepare and respond to an accident:

  1. Plan Ahead

No matter how careful you are behind the wheel, some accidents are unavoidable. You can make the aftermath of a crash more manageable if you plan ahead. To start, you should always have your insurance information and emergency contact numbers on hand. If you have specific medical needs, keep a card in your vehicle or in your wallet that notifies medical personnel about your condition. You should also keep a first-aid kit, flashlight and orange cones in your vehicle. If your phone does not have a camera, then you should keep a disposable one in the glove box so you can take pictures of the accident.

  1. If Possible, Move Vehicles to the Side of the Road

Though there are a number of essential steps you should take after an accident, one of the most critical is ensuring that you and other road users are safe. This means moving vehicles to the side of the road, where you will not block other traffic.

  1. Exchange Information with Everyone

Before leaving the scene, you should gather information from witnesses and everyone involved in the accident. Not doing so could hurt your chances of filing a successful lawsuit for damages. Be sure to record names, insurance and contact information, as well as driver’s license numbers and the license plate numbers of vehicles. You should also write down information about the cars involved in the accident, including the year, model, make and color.

  1. Report the Accident

Depending on the specifics of the accident, you may be required by New York law to file a report with the police and DMV. If the cost of repairs exceeds $1,000, then everyone involved in the crash must file an MV-104 within 10 days of the accident. You must also report the collision if anyone has been injured. Keep in mind that it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident where someone else has been injured or killed. Do not leave until the police tell you it is ok. If you have recently been involved in a car accident and would like to speak with an experienced New York City accident attorney, contact Jaroslawicz & Jaros, PLLC today at 212.227.2780.

Get the advice and guidance you and your family need

You do not have to go through this alone.

At Jaroslawicz & Jaros, we have over 40 years of experience helping accident victims in New York recover compensation. The clients we represent benefit from the personal attention of our knowledgeable and experienced attorneys.

We Have Recovered Over $2 Billion for Our Clients.

The attorneys at Jaroslawicz & Jaros have obtained verdicts and settlements of over $1 Million for hundreds of our individual clients. Since all New York personal injury law firms generally charge the same legal fee why not hire an experienced law firm with a proven track record?

When you retain the New York City accident lawyers at Jaroslawicz & Jaros, you will always work directly with your lawyer, and not with a paralegal or secretary. We will always be available to you! Our hundreds of positive client reviews and testimonials speak for themselves.

Experience and a track record of results

Contact the attorneys at Jaroslawicz & Jaros for a free legal consultation regarding your rights and your legal options. If we agree to handle your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis so that you don’t have to worry about any upfront costs.

Contact us today for a free consultation

Picture of Abraham Jaros

You can reach partner Abraham Jaros directly, either call his cell 917-842-9544, or email him at ajaros@lawjaros.com. Or call Jaroslawicz & Jaros at 212 227 2780 in New York, or toll free 800-269-2780, or submit an online questionnaire.