Can Passengers Recover Compensation for Car Accidents?
When we sit in the passenger seat, we trust that the person driving will get us safely to our destination. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Car accidents occur often and can result in serious injury. Read on to learn more about recovering compensation in a New York car accident.
Common Causes of Car Accidents?
Car accidents can be caused by a number of different factors. Some car accidents are the result of poor road conditions, inclement weather, or faulty car parts. That being said, the majority of accidents are a result of driver negligence. The most common examples of negligence include:
- Unlawful turns
- Careless lane changes
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Electronic device use
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drowsy driving
What Do I Do After an Accident Occurs?
If you are involved in a car accident, there are some important steps to take:
- Call 911. The police can file an accident report detailing who was driving, how the accident occurred, and more.
- Document the scene. You should take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, making sure to document any damage done to the cars or property involved. If there are multiple people in the car, each person should take their own photos.
- Obtain witness contacts. If anyone saw your accident occur, obtain their contact information. You and the driver may have differing opinions when it comes to the events of the accident and a third-party may be able to corroborate your version of events.
- Seek medical attention. People are often tempted to skip a trip to the hospital and recover at home. This is usually a bad idea. Going to the hospital helps ensure that your injuries are treated while also providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Make sure to ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents.
- Contact a personal injury attorney. A skilled attorney may be able to obtain security footage and police reports to help with your case.
- File your claim on time. If you wish to pursue legal action for your injuries, you will have to do so by a certain date. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In New York, the statute of limitations for a personal injury accident is generally three years from the date of the accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident due to the driver’s negligence, contact our firm today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED WESTCHESTER COUNTY FIRM
Hausman & Pendzick effectively represent victims of negligence in Westchester County and across the state of New York. We understand how challenging life can be without financial compensation for serious injuries you have wrongly sustained. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.
