A crash scrambles your brain. One minute you're driving home. The next you're standing on the shoulder with your heart pounding, trying to remember what you're supposed to do.
Here's the problem. The things that protect your claim have to happen fast, right when you're least able to think straight. Miss them and you can't go back. The other driver's insurer will have its story locked in by tomorrow morning. If your side of the story isn't written down, photographed, and reported, it starts to disappear.
You don't need to memorize the law. Just follow this list.
The 10-step checklist
1. Stay calm and assess the situation
Take a breath before you say a word. Don't argue, don't accuse, and don't admit fault — not even "I'm sorry." Save your story for the police.
2. Move to a safe location and check for injuries
Get out of traffic if you can do it safely, then check on everyone. And even if you feel fine, see a doctor the same day. Adrenaline is a painkiller. Neck, back, and head injuries often show up days later, and the medical record ties your injuries to the crash.
3. Call 911 to report the accident and any injuries
Even for a "small" crash. Ask for police, and request an ambulance if anyone is hurt. The police report becomes one of the most important pieces of paper in your case.
4. Take photos of both vehicles, the damage, the scene, and the plates
Every angle of every car. Signs and signals. Skid marks. The weather. Your visible injuries. You cannot take too many pictures.
5. Write down the other driver's insurance, name, and vehicle details
Insurance card, license, plate, make and model. Photograph the cards instead of copying them.
6. Get contact information for the driver and any witnesses
Names and phone numbers, on the spot. Witnesses vanish fast.
7. Give your name and insurance information to the police
It's required, and it's where your side of the story gets written down. Be honest. Just don't guess about what happened, and don't accept blame.
8. Call a tow company if your car can't be driven
Get it towed somewhere it can be looked at properly. Need repairs or a way to get around this week? We help with a free rental car (no deposit) and an exceptional body shop. That's part of what we do.
9. Obtain the accident report
Ask the officers at the scene how to get a copy. If police never came and someone was hurt or there's real damage, you may also need to file a DMV crash report yourself.
10. Call your insurance company to file the claim
Right away, then follow their instructions. In New York, your no-fault application is generally due within 30 days of the crash. That form is what gets your medical bills and lost pay covered. One warning: when the other driver's insurer calls, be polite and say little. No recorded statements, no releases, no quick checks. Stay off social media about the crash, and get advice before you accept anything.
One more thing about those deadlines
The 30-day no-fault clock is only one of several. Claims involving city vehicles generally require notice within 90 days. Most New York injury lawsuits generally must be filed within 3 years. Your deadline may be different. That is exactly why you should get advice now, not later.
Keep this list, then make one free call
If the crash already happened and you're reading this after the fact, don't panic. Do the steps you still can, starting with the doctor and the insurance report. Then call us. We'll go through your situation for free, flag your deadlines, and tell you what your case may be worth. No cost, no pressure, no obligation. That's what we're here for.
Questions New Yorkers ask us
Do I have to call the police after a New York car accident?
Call 911 even for a small crash. The police report becomes key evidence later. If police never came and someone was hurt or there is real damage, you may also need to file a crash report with the DMV. For the full walkthrough, see our after-a-crash guide.
How long do I have to file a no-fault claim in New York?
Your no-fault application is generally due within 30 days of the crash. We explain the whole thing in our 30-day deadline guide. Your deadline may be different. That is exactly why you should get advice now, not later.
What should I say to the other driver's insurance company?
As little as possible. Be polite, confirm the basics, and skip the recorded statement. Here is what to say when the adjuster calls.
Still not sure where you stand? Get your free case review or call (347) 526-1246. A real person answers, 24/7.
