If you're reading this, chances are you've just been involved in a car accident. First and foremost, take a deep breath. We understand you're likely feeling shaken, confused, and overwhelmed.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we're here to guide you through this time. Let's walk through some things to consider in the coming days to protect your health, rights, and future.
Table of contents
Immediate Actions: Things to Consider
1. Prioritize Your Health
If you are injured, go to the doctor. A doctor can:
- Identify and document any injuries
- Provide necessary treatment
- Create an official record of your post-accident condition
Why Immediate Medical Attention is Important
- Early treatment can prevent complications and speed up recovery
- Medical records serve as evidence if you need to file a claim
- Delaying treatment might be used by insurance companies to argue your injuries aren't serious
2. Gather and Organize Information
Collect as much information about the accident as possible:
- Names and contact details of all involved parties
- Insurance information from other drivers
- Contact information of any witnesses
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- The police report number
Tips for Effective Information Gathering
- If safe and practical, use your smartphone to take photos and record details
- Don't forget to note the exact location, time, and date of the accident
The more information you have, the stronger your position will be when dealing with insurance companies or potential legal matters.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
Put your insurance provider as soon as possible. This is necessary to comply with the notice requirements in most insurance policies.
Remember, while it's important to report the accident, you're not obligated to give a full statement right away.
What to Expect When Notifying Your Insurance
- They may assign you a claim number, so be sure to write it down
- They could offer to set up a repair estimate. You have the right to choose your own repair shop
Your insurance company isn't necessarily your enemy, but their interests might not always align perfectly with yours. Generally speaking, you have a duty to cooperate with your own insurance company when it comes to a first-party claim for no-fault benefits or an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim. Stay polite but cautious in your interactions.
The Next Few Days: Critical Steps to Take
4. Follow Up on Your Medical Care
Your health remains the top priority:
- Attend any follow-up medical appointments
- Follow your doctor's treatment plan exactly
- Be aware that some injuries, like whiplash, may take days to fully manifest
Understanding Common Post-Accident Injuries
- Whiplash: Neck pain and stiffness that often worsens over time
- Concussion: Headaches, confusion, or memory issues
- Soft tissue injuries: Bruising or soreness that may increase with time
- Psychological trauma: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD symptoms
Don't ignore any new symptoms that develop. Report them to your doctor
immediately.
5. Get Legal Representation
Now is the time to talk to a car accident lawyer if:
- You've sustained significant injuries
- Fault for the accident is disputed
- You're facing substantial medical bills or lost wages that are not covered by no-fault
- You're uncomfortable dealing with insurance companies
We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and options. Don't
hesitate to reach out. The sooner you have legal guidance, the better protected your interests will be.
Benefits of Early Legal Representation
- Ensures all evidence is properly collected and preserved
- Handles communication with insurance companies, reducing your stress
- Helps you avoid common pitfalls that could harm your case
- Provides a clear understanding of your rights and options
- Can often negotiate better settlements than individuals can on their own
6. Start the Insurance Claim Process
Begin the process of filing an insurance claim:
- Review your policy to understand your coverage
- Keep detailed records of all communications with insurance companies
- Be prepared for the possibility of a claim denial or a low initial offer
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Having legal representation can help you receive fair compensation.
Understanding Different Types of Insurance Claims
- Property Damage Claim:
- Covers damage to your vehicle
- May include rental car costs while your vehicle is being repaired
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Claim:
- Covers limited medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault
- Available in no-fault insurance states such as New York
- Bodily Injury Liability Claim:
- Filed against the at-fault driver's insurance
- Covers medical expenses and lost wages not covered by no-fault insurance, and pain and suffering
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claim:
- Used when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage
The Coming Weeks: Building Your Case and Recovery
7. Continue Documenting Your Recovery
As you recover, keep track of how the accident impacts your life. This may include keeping receipts for all accident-related expenses
Types of Damages to Document
- Economic Damages:
- Medical bills (current and estimated future costs)
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., transportation to medical appointments)
- Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium (impact on personal relationships)
8. Understand the Long-Term Picture
As you move forward, consider the potential long-term impacts of the accident:
- Your doctor may discuss the possibility of future medical needs
- Consider how your injuries might affect your long-term career prospects
- Think about potential impacts on your lifestyle and personal relationships
Factors to Consider for Long-Term Impact
- Potential for chronic pain or permanent disability
- Need for ongoing medical treatment or therapy
- Impact on your ability to perform your job or advance in your career
- Changes in your ability to participate in hobbies or activities you enjoy
Moving Forward: Your Path to Recovery
Remember, you don’t have to be alone in this journey. At William Mattar Law Offices, we're here to support you every step of the way.
We understand that right now, you're likely focused on your immediate recovery and getting your life back on track. That's exactly where your energy should be. Let us handle the legal matters while you concentrate on healing.
Our experienced legal team can:
- Guide you through the insurance claim process
- Protect your rights and advocate for fair compensation
- Handle communications with insurance companies and other parties
- Prepare for potential litigation if a fair settlement can't be reached from the other side
The Importance of Timely Action
- Statute of Limitations: In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, this can vary depending on the circumstances, being as short as one year.
- Notice of Claim: If your accident involved a government entity, you may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim. This is something that must be complied with before a lawsuit is filed.
- Insurance Deadlines: Your insurance policy may have specific deadlines for reporting accidents and filing claims.
These time constraints underscore the importance of taking action and getting legal help early in the process.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we have extensive experience guiding clients through every stage of the post-accident process. Our team is dedicated to:
- Protecting Your Rights: We can safeguard your rights throughout the claims process and any potential litigation.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Our experienced attorneys know how to value your claim properly and negotiate effectively with insurance companies.
- Handling the Paperwork: We take care of all the paperwork and legal procedures, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
- Offering Peace of Mind: Knowing that experienced professionals are handling your case can help reduce your stress during this time.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer Today
At William Mattar Law Offices, we've guided many clients through the aftermath of car accidents. We know what you're going through, and we're here to help.
Contact us today, and let us help you get the compensation you need to move forward with your life.