What to Do After a Car Accident in Brooklyn: A Step-by-Step Guide
At Evan Goldberg Law, we’ve helped many Brooklyn residents navigate the aftermath of serious collisions. This guide outlines the essential steps to take and how to protect your legal rights.
1) Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Move to a safe location if possible and turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 for anyone who is hurt. Even if symptoms seem minor, seek medical attention — issues like concussions or whiplash can surface hours later. Prompt care protects your health and creates important documentation for your claim.
2) Call the Police and File an Accident Report
New York law requires reporting crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Ask for the police report number at the scene so you can obtain a copy later. Official reports are critical when determining fault and dealing with insurance.
3) Exchange Information with the Other Driver
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make and model
Be courteous, but avoid discussing fault or apologizing. If the other driver won’t cooperate, wait for the police to assist.
4) Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you can, take photos or videos of the vehicles, the wider scene, traffic signals, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries. Get contact information for witnesses. These details can be crucial in proving liability later.
5) Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the incident to your insurer promptly. Provide basic facts only. Avoid recorded statements or accepting quick offers before you’ve spoken with an attorney.
6) Seek Legal Guidance Early
Medical bills, missed work, and long-term pain can follow a crash. Speaking with a Brooklyn personal injury attorney early helps you understand your options and avoid costly mistakes. Contact Evan Goldberg Law for a free consultation. We can:
- Evaluate fault and identify all potentially liable parties
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Calculate fair compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering
- File claims or lawsuits when appropriate
7) Keep Detailed Records
Save medical bills, treatment notes, diagnostic results, repair estimates, pay stubs showing lost wages, and any out-of-pocket expenses. Thorough documentation strengthens your claim.
8) Understanding No-Fault Insurance in New York
New York is a no-fault state. Generally, your own policy covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of fault. If your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold (for example, fractures, significant disfigurement, or permanent limitations), you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation. Our team can assess whether your case qualifies.
9) Why Choosing a Local Brooklyn Attorney Matters
Laws are statewide, but local experience affects case handling. A Brooklyn-based firm is familiar with the area’s traffic patterns, collision hotspots, and how claims are typically managed within the local court system and by insurers operating in the region. This familiarity with procedures and practices — not personal relationships — helps cases move efficiently and positions your claim effectively.
10) Contact Evan Goldberg Law After a Brooklyn Car Accident
If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t wait to get guidance. The sooner you act, the better your opportunity to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Learn more about our firm on the About Us page, or reach out through our Contact Us page to schedule a free consultation.