What to Do After a Car Accident in NYC

A car crash in The Bronx happens in an instant, but the decisions you make in the minutes that follow can shape your recovery for months to come. The noise, the shock, the confusion, it all makes it harder to think clearly. That’s why knowing what to do after a car accident in NYC is critical. Your first priority should be checking yourself and passengers for injuries, then moving to a safe spot away from traffic if possible. Call 911 immediately to report the collision and get medical help on the way. Remember, you must stay at the scene by law. While you wait, gather essential information from the other driver (contact details, insurance, license plate) and any witnesses who saw what happened. Document everything with photos or videos of the vehicles, damage, and road conditions. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention right away. Minor injuries can worsen over time, and a medical record connecting your symptoms to the crash is crucial for any claim.

At Rubinowitz Law Firm P.C., we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a collision can be. Whether you were rear-ended on a major highway or T-boned at a busy intersection, we know the stress and uncertainty that follows. As a Bronx car accident lawyer, we’re here to stand by your side and protect your rights.

Call 911 and Check for Injuries

The first thing to do is ensure everyone’s safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately. Reporting the accident to law enforcement isn’t just common sense; it’s also legally required when injuries, deaths, or significant property damage occur.

When the police arrive, they’ll create an official report that becomes key evidence for insurance and legal claims. Provide only factual information, avoid speculation, and do not admit fault. Keep a copy or request the report number before leaving the scene.

Move Vehicles Only if It’s Safe

After an accident, safety comes before convenience. If your vehicle can be moved and doing so won’t risk anyone’s safety, move it to the side of the road to prevent additional collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

If it’s not safe to move, remain inside your vehicle and wait for emergency responders. Exiting your car on a busy street can be dangerous, so use your best judgment and keep passengers calm until help arrives.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s smart to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Having documentation that you received treatment promptly can also help connect your injuries directly to the crash. 

Why Even Minor Injuries Should Be Evaluated

Adrenaline and shock can hide pain for hours or even days. Getting evaluated by a doctor prevents small injuries from worsening and ensures a medical record exists if you pursue compensation later. Without this link, insurers may claim your injuries came from something else.

Report the Accident to Authorities

New York law requires drivers to report certain crashes. According to Section 605 of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, any driver involved in an accident causing injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage must file a Motor Vehicle Accident Report (MV-104) within ten days. Failing to file this form can result in penalties or even suspension of your driver’s license.

When completing the report, make sure all details match the police record and your insurance claim. 

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If possible, document everything before leaving. Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, skid marks, and the surrounding environment. Get names and contact information of witnesses and note the responding officer’s badge number.

Your phone is one of the best tools you have. Capture full-scene and close-up photos, and record short videos describing what you see. These details help clarify what happened.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as you can. Most policies require prompt notice of an accident, often within a few days. Give them the facts, but avoid making recorded statements before consulting with legal counsel. Insurance companies are businesses, and early statements can sometimes be used against you later.

Keep records of every conversation and document your claim number. If another driver’s insurer reaches out, don’t discuss details or sign anything without understanding the implications. That step should come only after you’ve reviewed your situation with a Bronx car accident lawyer.

Legal Deadlines and Statute of Limitations in NYC

Every legal claim has a set time limit. Under New York Civil Practice Law and Rules § 214, individuals generally have three years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This period applies to claims involving physical injury or property damage.

Missing this window can mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether. While three years may seem long, gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, and negotiating with insurers takes time. 

There are exceptions, such as cases involving municipal vehicles or government entities, which may require a Notice of Claim within 90 days. That’s why knowing what to do after a car accident in NYC as early as possible helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Speak With a Bronx Car Accident Lawyer

Police reports, insurance forms, and medical appointments accumulate quickly after a crash. When you’re trying to manage all three at once, it helps to have a Bronx attorney who knows the local courts, insurers, and traffic regulations thoroughly.

At Rubinowitz Law Firm P.C., we work with clients after serious collisions to protect their rights under New York law and help them understand their options. Confused about filing a DMV report or worried about missing a legal deadline? We’ll walk you through what to do after a car accident in NYC, step by step, while you handle your recovery. We’ll handle everything else. Call us at 212-524-2899 for a free consultation.

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

David Barnet

James Rubinowitz handled my case and I couldn’t have asked for a harder working, more compassionate, experienced attorney. Besides being a great attorney he is also a very nice guy who is really easy to work with. James walked me through the process. He told me what to expect and kept me apprised of every step along the way. He was almost always available to answer any question that I had and when he wasn’t he would get back to me almost immediately. I really felt like I had someone in my corner. I was very pleased with the settlement I received and would not hesitate to recommend this firm.

Noam Ross

I was represented by Ben and James Rubinowitz of this firm after being hit by a car and being injured so badly that I couldn’t walk for most of a year and had to have multiple surgeries. They were highly recommended by a friend and were expert, professional, and patient with me through the whole process. Between COVID backup in the courts and an insurance company that drew the process out as long as possible, it was easy to get discouraged, but they had a plan and helped me stay the course, always answered my questions, and prepared me well. In the room with their opponents their skill and preparedness showed and they had the upper hand. They eventually were able to turn the screws on the insurance company for a settlement that was worth the time.

Robin H

When Ben and James and their firm took on our case it was like our prayers had been answered. We knew we had the best legal team and our confidence in them never wavered. They provided endless attention and dedication to seeking justice. Everything was handled with the utmost sensitivity, care, and compassion. It was never lost on us on how lucky we were to have Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman, & Mackauf represent us. They are real-life guardian angels who walk the walk, talk the talk, and do right by their clients in the most profound, impactful way. That’s exactly what they did for us and there isn’t enough space here to fully express our gratitude for everything they have done for us.

Mia Salvaggio

After my sister and I went through a traumatic accident in 2018, a family friend recommended James Rubonowitz, and I could not be more thankful they did. I had nothing but a great experience with Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman, & Mackauf!

James Rubonowitz was there every step of the way with support and guidance for me and my family. He not only helped me with my settlement but also with incoming medical bills and without this help I would have been lost.

I would highly recommend James and his team to anyone in need!