What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in New York
October 10, 2025
Getting into a car accident is always stressful. One moment you’re driving home, and the next you’re facing flashing lights, shaken nerves, and questions about what to do next. In New York, where car accidents happen every day, knowing the right steps to take can protect your health, finances, and legal rights.
Below are the essential actions to take — and key mistakes to avoid — after a car accident in Westchester County or anywhere in New York State.
Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Your first priority should be safety. If it’s possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Use warning triangles or flares if you have them.
If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even minor injuries should be checked by medical professionals at the scene.
Step 2: Call the Police and File a Report
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §605, you must report any accident that results in injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage. Always call the police, even if the crash seems minor.
The responding officer will prepare a police accident report, which serves as an official, unbiased record of what happened. This document is critical for both insurance claims and any future legal action.
You can later request a copy of your report from the New York State DMV Accident Report Archive.
Step 3: Exchange Information Carefully
Exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
Be polite, but avoid discussing fault or apologizing. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as admitting liability. Stick to the facts.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Use your phone to record as much as possible:
- Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and weather
- Images of traffic signals, skid marks, or debris
- Photos of any visible injuries
- Videos showing the overall scene
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and contact information. Witness statements can be valuable if liability is later disputed.
Step 5: Get Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible. Certain injuries like whiplash or concussions may not show symptoms right away.
In Westchester, local emergency departments such as White Plains Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, or New York-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital can provide immediate evaluation.
Prompt medical documentation links your injuries directly to the crash, which is essential for insurance and legal claims.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
New York follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurer covers your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash.
You must file a no-fault claim within 30 days of the accident. When reporting, give accurate details but do not speculate about fault or the extent of injuries until a doctor has evaluated you.
Learn more here: New York No-Fault Insurance Basics
Step 7: Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
While not every accident requires legal representation, having an attorney can make a significant difference. A qualified personal injury lawyer can:
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Ensure deadlines and documentation requirements are met
- Accurately assess your damages, including pain and suffering
- Represent you in negotiations or court, if necessary
LFK Law Practice P.C. offers free consultations, so you can discuss your case at no cost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not calling the police – Without an official report, your claim may lack critical evidence.
- Admitting fault – Liability should be determined through investigation, not at the scene.
- Delaying medical care – Waiting to see a doctor can harm both your health and your case.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can change your day in an instant, but what you do next can protect your future. By staying calm, following the right steps, and getting professional guidance, you put yourself in the best position for recovery and fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Westchester County or anywhere in New York, our legal team is here to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your rights.
