The aftermath of a car accident can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. This is particularly true if the crash caused serious property damage or injuries. In addition, many victims have to take legal action to recover compensation for lost wages, medical bills and other damages.
By understanding the processes that follow a collision, not only will it be easier to remain calm, but you may also put yourself in a better position to recover damages from the at-fault driver. In some cases, this compensation is necessary to avoid insurmountable debt. An injury lawyer can evaluate your accident to determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. If your collision happened in New York and you would like to speak with a New York City personal injury attorney, contact Jaroslawicz & Jaros PLLC today for a free consultation at 212.227.2780. Until then, read on to learn more about taking legal action after a crash:
Taking Legal Action in the Aftermath of an Auto Accident
Physical recovery should always be your priority if you have been injured from an auto accident. If you have been injured, then you should call the police immediately. If you are able, then you should exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers. This will aid in filing an insurance claim and will be important if you file an injury lawsuit. If you or someone else has been injured in the crash, then you are legally required to file an accident report, according to the New York Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. This report may be crucial evidence that proves the other driver is liable for the wreck. Even if no one was injured, it may still be a good idea to file an accident report so there is an official record of the incident. This is because some injuries do not become apparent until several weeks or months after the collision. It is also important to understand that any emergency services, such as EMS, fire department and police, will have to file their own reports. You should inquire about copies of these documents as they may make a difference in a court case.
Recovering Damages from an Injury Lawsuit
Depending on the nature of your accident, you may be eligible for several types of damages. These include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your attorney not only can identify the damages to claim but also can help you quantify them. If you were recently the victim of an auto or motorcycle accident and wish to speak with a personal injury lawyer in New York City, contact Jaroslawicz & Jaros, PLLC today for a free consultation. We can review the details of your collision to determine if filing a lawsuit would be in your best interests. Call us today at 212.227.2780 to learn more