New York Auto Injury Help

What Should You Do if You Are Seriously Injured?

What you do or don't do following an automobile accident in which you've incurred a serious injury can have major repercussions later on -- both for your health and for your claim. Here are some first steps to take if you've been seriously injured in a car accident while in New York.

• If you are hurt and still inside the automobile, don't move unless the car is in imminent danger of being hit by additional vehicles or of catching on fire. You could make your injuries worse.

• Call for help immediately if you are able.

• Do not refuse medical help when it arrives just because you don't have insurance or are otherwise worried about paying the bills. Getting immediate care is vitally important.

• Provide honest answers to questions but do not volunteer opinions about fault, the extent of your injuries, or anything else accident-related. These statements could later be used against you.

• Always contact your own insurance company, regardless of who's at fault.

• Follow through with all medical appointments and treatments. You are expected to act responsibly to further your own recovery.

• Keep records of all bills, receipts, police reports, witness information, time lost from work, etc.

• Understand your insurance policy, the coverage it provides, and the statute of limitations. For example, claims for New York auto accident injuries must be filed within three years of the incident – but a no fault notification form is required within 30 days of the accident.

• Don't give a recorded statement to insurance company representatives or sign any documents before you understand your rights.

Finally, consider finding an attorney with experience working with car accident injury victims. The lawyers at the Jacob Fuchsberg Law Firm can help if you have been seriously injured in a New York automobile accident. For a free consultation, call us at 212-869-3500, come by our New York law office, or complete our contact form.