When you first get your license, you most likely excitedly took your car for a spin by yourself for the very first time. This is a special moment in everybody’s lives. However, while driving is a symbol of freedom and adventure, it is also important you have a safety plan in place, just in case you ever need one. For instance, many young drivers do not think about what they should do immediately following a car accident. However, if the accident was not your fault, you must know what to do going forward to ensure you don’t end up paying for damages, or, in the worst case, injuries. Read on to learn more.

What are the most frequent causes of car accidents?

Car accidents are generally caused by driver negligence, however, they are also sometimes caused by outside factors, such as inclement weather conditions, poor road conditions, negligent road design, defective car parts, and more. Unfortunately, driver negligence contributes to the majority of car accidents, despite the fact that these accidents are usually avoidable. Some examples of driver negligence are as follows:

• Texting and driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to yield
• Speeding
• Navigating directions while driving
• Talking on the phone and driving
• Driving while drowsy
• Unsafely changing lanes
• Failing to check blind spots
• Ignoring traffic lights and signs
• Disregarding other rules and regulations of the road

What should I do after a crash?

After a crash, you must ask the other party for their name and insurance information. If he or she shows you their insurance info, take a picture of it. You should then call the police, who will document the accident and ensure everybody is safe. Next, you should take pictures of your car and theirs, and contact your insurance company. This gets the ball rolling on the claims process. If you have been injured, or wish to file a lawsuit, you must receive medical attention immediately. A physician will treat your injuries accordingly and provide you with medical documentation regarding their extent, of which you may also use to prove your claim.

Can I recover financial compensation if I am injured in a car crash?

To recover compensation, you must first satisfy the burden of proof by providing sufficient evidence that proves you were injured due to another party’s negligence. Hiring an experienced attorney can help you do so.

What is the statute of limitations in New York State?

The statute of limitations in New York is three years. This means that if you were injured, you have three years to file a lawsuit against a negligent party. Hire an experienced attorney who knows how to promptly get the claims process started.

Contact our experienced New York firm

Hausman & Pendzick effectively represent victims of neglect 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.