Car Accident FAQ

Q: I just got into a car accident. What should I do?

A: First make sure everyone is ok. If someone is injured, call 911.  You should take pictures of the crash scene and the damage to your car.  You must share your personal contact and insurance information with any other drivers involved in the accident.

Q: What is the best way to take pictures of the accident?

A: Use your phone to take pictures of the roadway, intersection, and the damage to the automobiles.

Q: Why do I need the insurance information of the other drivers?

A: The law requires that you exchange personal and insurance information with the other motorist(s) when property damage occurs.  You can be charged with a violation or crime if you leave the scene without providing this information.  Obtaining this information is also necessary to file an insurance claim. It is important to let your insurance company know about the accident right away.

Q: Who else should I get contact information from?

A: In addition to getting contact information from the other drivers, you should make sure to speak to anyone who witnessed the accident. They can provide valuable testimony that may help you with any litigation that may occur.

Q: Should I call the police?

A: If you have been  injured or if you estimate the damage to your car to be in excess of $1,000.00, call the police.

Q: When do I need to report an accident?

If you’re in a car accident in New York, and any person incurred more than $1,000 in property damage as a result of the crash, all drivers must file a “Report of Motor Vehicle Accident” form with the DMV no more than 10 days after the accident. Failure to do so can result in suspension of your driver’s license.

If anyone was injured or killed in the crash, you must immediately notify the police, and an accident report must be filed with the DMV. It’s a crime to leave the scene of a car accident that causes personal injury or death without taking legally-required steps like this.

Q: Do I need to see a doctor after an accident?

A:  You should see a doctor after an accident within 48 hours if you have any pain, suffer any injury, or the accident was more than a fender bender (moderate to high impact).  A doctor can perform a medical evaluation to ensure you receive any necessary medical care, and provide potentially crucial medical evidence of any injuries you suffered.

Q: What can I be compensated for after an accident?

A: If you have been involved in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence you could be entitled to the cost of any repairs to your vehicle, plus the costs of any medical bills or rehabilitation related to your accident. You can also receive compensation for lost time off work, loss of the ability to work, as well as any other pain and suffering related to your injuries.

If you have been in an accident, call the law offices of McGuire, Pelaez & Bennett, PC at 631-348-1702.

If you have been charged with a traffic infraction of crime we will fight hard on your behalf.

If you have been injured, we can make sure you file the proper forms right away to make sure your medical bills are paid, your automobile can be repaired, and you can get compensation for any injuries you incurred, including lost wages, loss of enjoyment, pain and suffering and in some cases, punitive damages.