The impact of being hurt in a car accident can last a lifetime, leaving victims overwhelmed and uncertain about what the future holds. At James Alexander Law, our car accident attorneys in central New York are dedicated to helping injured victims and their families pick up the pieces and find justice after a crash. Here, our injury lawyers walk you through exactly what to do after a car accident to protect your rights and preserve valuable evidence.
Call 911
Even if a car or truck accident seems minor, it’s vital to call 911 right away. Police officers can document what happened, talk to witnesses, and create an official accident report, which is an important piece of evidence your injury lawyer will need if you decide to file a claim for damages. EMTs at the scene can evaluate and help injured victims and ensure they get the medical assistance they need.
Seek Medical Care as Soon as Possible
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, visiting the emergency room or seeing a doctor after a crash is a must. Symptoms of serious injuries like concussion, TBI, spinal trauma, or internal bleeding may not show up right away. Seeking medical treatment can protect your health and provide critical documentation of the accident and your injuries.
Document the Scene
If you’re able, gather as much evidence as you can at the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage and positions, traffic signs, and your injuries. Use the voice recorder or notes app on your phone to document everything you remember about how the crash happened, including location, time, weather conditions, and anything else you think may be relevant. Recording these details can make it easier for your car accident lawyer to piece together what occurred and prove fault.
Get Information from Witnesses
Witnesses often provide valuable insight into how a car accident occurred. If anyone saw or heard the crash, ask for their name and contact information. Your injury attorney may interview these witnesses later to provide testimony that strengthens your case.
Contact an Experienced New York Accident Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take after being hurt in a collision is to get in touch with a local, experienced car accident lawyer in New York. Insurance companies are not on your side. Even if an adjuster seems kind and concerned, their main priority is to protect the insurer’s bottom line. Do not give a statement, sign anything, or accept a settlement offer without speaking to our car accident lawyers first. We’ll evaluate your case and protect your rights so they can’t take advantage of you at this vulnerable time.
Save All Medical Documentation
Make sure to keep all medical reports, bills, receipts, prescriptions and any other documentation related to the accident or your injuries. This evidence provides proof of medical costs and is vital to accurately calculate the value of your claim.
Keep a Journal
It’s also a good idea to keep a daily journal of your physical symptoms, emotional state, treatment, and how your injuries have affected your daily life. Writing it all down can clearly demonstrate that you have suffered non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
How a Central New York Injury Lawyer Can Help
These cases can be complex, especially when commercial trucks or multiple vehicles are involved in a collision. Investigating and gathering evidence, proving liability, calculating damages, and negotiating with insurance companies require the skill and knowledge of seasoned car accident lawyers.
Over the past 40 years, our injury law firm has seen almost every kind of accident case imaginable. We have a proven record of success in recovering compensation for our clients. We know how to avoid common pitfalls, counter insurance company tactics, and fight for your rights in court if necessary.
Our injury lawyers are your local defenders who provide compassionate, tenacious legal representation you can trust. We’re a family-owned law firm with deep roots in central New York. Over the decades, we’ve built a reputation for treating clients like family, never backing down in our pursuit of justice, and helping injured victims can put a difficult chapter in their lives behind them.
No Fees Unless We Win
Our car accident lawyers understand that finances can be tight after a crash. That’s why we take cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and we only get paid if we secure a settlement or court award for you. Attorneys’ fees and other legal costs come out of the compensation you receive. With two convenient locations in East Syracuse and Rochester, we serve personal injury clients in central New York, the Southern Tier, and surrounding areas.
Safeguard Your Rights and Financial Future
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, taking steps to protect your rights can give you the best chance of a successful outcome for your case. Our compassionate central New York injury lawyers listen to your story, answer your questions, and guide you through the process with compassion, clarity, and relentless legal advocacy.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Central New York
At James Alexander Law, we know that being hurt in a car accident is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can go through. Let us take some of the weight off your shoulders. To schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney near you in New York, contact us, call 1-800-529-1333, or use the chat feature on our website to get in touch.
