White Plains is a busy and lively city in New York. It has great shops, nice parks, and lots of cars on the road. With all the traffic, a car accident claim can happen, even if you’re careful. If you get into a crash, it can feel scary and confusing. But don’t worry—you can take steps to protect yourself and your rights.
If you’re in a crash, an accident lawyer in White Plains can help you figure out what to do next. But before you even get to that part, here are the key steps you should take after a car accident, written in very simple words.
Stay Calm and Stay Safe
Right after the crash, take a deep breath. Try to stay calm. If your car is in a dangerous spot—like the middle of the road—move it if you can. If you’re hurt, or someone else is hurt, call 911 right away. Getting help is the most important thing.
Call the Police
Even if the accident is small, it’s smart to call the police. They can make a report about what happened. This report can help a lot when you file your claim later. Tell the truth, but don’t guess. If you don’t know something, it’s okay to say that.
Get Medical Help
Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show up right away. You might feel fine now and hurt later. A doctor can check you out and keep records of any injuries. These records will help your case.
Take Photos and Get Info
Use your phone to take pictures of:
- The cars
- The damage
- The road
- Any signs or traffic lights
- Any injuries
Also, get the name, phone number, and insurance info from the other driver. If there are any people who saw the crash, ask for their contact info too.
Tell Your Insurance Company
Call your car insurance company as soon as you can. Tell them what happened, but just share the facts. You don’t need to say it was your fault—even if you think it was. Let them figure that part out. They’ll open a claim and give you a claim number to track everything.
Keep Track of Everything
Start a folder or notebook for your accident. Keep copies of:
- Medical bills
- Doctor notes
- Repair estimates
- The police report
- Any letters or emails about the accident
This helps keep things organized and makes it easier to prove your case.
Talk to a Lawyer
If you’re hurt or your car is badly damaged, things can get tricky. That’s when it’s smart to talk to an accident lawyer. They can deal with the insurance company, help you get money for your injuries, and make sure you’re treated fairly. Most lawyers give a free first meeting, so it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Key Takeaways
- Stay calm and make sure everyone is safe.
- Call the police and get a report.
- See a doctor, even if you feel okay.
- Take photos and gather info from the scene.
- Report the crash to your insurance company.
- Keep track of all paperwork and bills.
- Ask a lawyer for help if things get complicated.
