What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Staten Island

The shock of impact and rush of adrenaline in the wake of a car crash can leave you dazed and wondering what to do next. At Chelli & Bush, Attorneys at Law, we understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll collisions can take on victims and their families. These tips from our Staten Island personal injury lawyers about what to do to after a car accident in New York can help you protect your rights and your health. 

Key Takeaways

• Seek medical care—Going to the ER or seeing a doctor as soon as possible ensures you get the care you need and provides vital documentation of your injuries.
• Document the scene—Taking photos of wrecked vehicles, your injuries, and the scene provides valuable evidence your Staten Island car accident attorney will need.
• Speak to a lawyer first—Do not admit fault, give a statement to insurance adjusters, or accept a settlement without consulting with a personal injury lawyer first.
• Trusted attorneys with a proven record—Our personal injury law firm has been in business for more than five decades and has obtained more than $500 million for injury victims in Staten Island, Brooklyn, and the greater NYC area. 

Move to Safety and Call 911

If your vehicle is in a dangerous position or obstructing the flow of traffic after a crash, move it to the shoulder or another nearby safe place if possible. However, if the car isn’t creating a hazard for other drivers, leave it in place. This enables responding officers to see exactly how the vehicles were positioned at the moment of impact.

Always call 911, even after a minor car accident. Answer their questions honestly and directly, but do not admit fault. Let EMTs check you out and go to the ER or see a doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms of injuries like whiplash, traumatic brain injury, and internal bleeding aren’t always apparent right away. Seeking medical help protects your health and medical records document your injuries. 

Document the Scene

The evidence you gather at the scene can lay a foundation for building your case. If you’re seriously injured or can’t move, ask a passenger or bystander to help.

• Take photos and video of the scene, damage to vehicles, skid marks, traffic signals, your injuries, and anything else you believe is relevant.
• Exchange insurance, driver’s license, and contact information with all involved drivers.
• Ask for contact info from witnesses who saw the crash happen or stopped to help.
• Request a police report or incident number from law enforcement at the scene.
• Contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Notify Insurers the Right Way

Although it’s important to inform your insurer after a car accident in Staten Island, be careful with your words. Unfortunately, even your own insurance company’s priority is protecting their bottom line. 

Stick to the facts and do not admit fault or use statements like “I’m fine,” as you don’t yet know the extent of your injuries. Keep in mind that you are not required to give a recorded statement, sign anything, or accept a settlement from the other driver’s insurance adjuster. Don’t let them pressure you at this vulnerable time. Seek the counsel of a car accident attorney and let them do the talking for you. 

Follow Doctor’s Orders

Whether you’re suffering from whiplash or something more serious like a traumatic brain injury (TBI), you may not recognize symptoms in the first few days or weeks after a car accident. However, it’s important to seek medical care and follow treatment recommendations you receive from healthcare providers. Delaying treatment can not only jeopardize your health but also give insurance companies an excuse to claim your injuries aren’t that severe or weren’t caused by the crash.

Track accident-related expenses and make a dedicated folder for all medical bills, doctor’s instructions, prescriptions, and diagnostic test results. Keep a journal of your pain levels, physical and mental condition, and how the injury affects your ability to work or perform daily tasks. 

When to Call a Car Accident Lawyer

If you’re wondering when to contact a personal injury lawyer after a car accident, the answer is as soon as possible. Although you have up to three years to file a car accident lawsuit in New York, an attorney can help preserve valuable evidence, build a compelling case, and give you the best possible chance of a successful outcome that covers the full scope of your injuries and losses. Having a trusted car accident attorney by your side can give you peace of mind and allow your family to focus on what’s important – healing and moving forward. 

Why Choose Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Staten Island?

Working with a legal team that understands the challenges you’re facing can make all the difference after a car accident in New York. At Chelli & Bush, Attorneys at Law, we offer:

• Decades of local experience—Our law firm has been a fixture in Staten Island for more than 50 years, and we truly care about the people we serve in our communities. We’re familiar with local court systems, judges, attorneys, insurance adjusters, and experts, which gives our clients a distinct advantage.
• Proven results—We’ve recovered more than $500 million for our clients. We’re dedicated to helping you get the fair compensation you need and deserve.
• No upfront costs—Our car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Near You in Staten Island

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the team at Chelli & Bush, Attorneys at Law, is here for you. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney near you in Staten Island, NY, contact us or call 718-987-8444. We serve clients in Staten Island, Brooklyn, and surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Accident Claims in NY

Should I call a personal injury lawyer even if the crash was minor?

Yes. Our car accident attorneys in Staten Island offer free consultations, so you really have nothing to lose even if we don’t move forward with your case.

Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim after a car accident?

In some cases, New York law prohibits insurers from increasing premiums solely for filing a claim. Our team can help you navigate the specific details of your policy.



How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in New York?

You typically have three years from the date of the crash to file a car accident lawsuit in New York. In wrongful death cases, you have up to two years to file. However, cases involving government agencies have much shorter deadlines to give notice of your intent to file a claim, or you may lose your right to recover compensation.