After a car accident, every moment matters, which is why we created this clear, easy-to-follow guide to help you take the right steps. But if you’ve been injured, it’s important that you don’t wait — call The Irwin Law Firm right away at (212) 203-4529. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What To Do After a Car Accident in NYC
1. Report the Accident to the NYPD or NYS DMV
1. Report the Accident to the NYPD or NYS DMV
Notifying the NYPD by calling 9-1-1 from the accident scene is important, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. You may need to file an official accident report which will become a critical piece of documentation for insurance and legal purposes.
Where the damage to property is more than $1,000 or anyone is injured you should file an accident report with the NYS DMV, within 10 days of the accident, because that is what NY law requires if the police don’t come to the scene.
2. Monitor Your Health and Get Medical Attention, If Needed
You may not feel injured right away but it’s important to monitor your health in the days following the accident. Car accidents can cause injuries like whiplash, concussions, or other soft tissue injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor.
Seeking prompt medical care is not only good for your well-being but can provide necessary evidence for any personal injury claim you may file. Keep all medical records, bills, and prescriptions, as they may be essential for proving your injuries and damages in the claim process.
3. Organize Insurance Information
At the accident scene you should exchange insurance information with all drivers involved. In the days following, keep contact information and photos organized and make a timely report to your car insurance provider to make sure your claim is processed correctly and before any insurance deadlines.
In New York, there is a strict 30-day deadline within which you must file a no-fault claim with your vehicle’s insurance company.
4. Organize Other Evidence
Having the following evidence organized can support your case and help establish fault.
- Any photos at the scene (vehicle damage, injuries, street scene)
- Witness contact information and statements
- Road conditions, traffic signs, weather, visibility
- Make mental notes of the other drivers’ actions, such as if they appeared distracted or under the influence
5. Document Expenses and Relevant Contacts
Expenses after an accident can add up. These include out-of-pocket costs such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, rental car fees, or missed work. Keep copies of your expenses, as they may be an important part of your case. Make sure to save receipts for every expense related to the accident.
Also, it’s a good idea to remember any relevant contacts you have with insurance adjusters, medical professionals, or the other driver’s representative. With so many moving parts and parties involved after an accident, remembering these interactions can help reduce stress and keep everything organized.
6. Communicate with Your Employer
If you need to take time off work due to injuries or stress, let your employer know right away. Provide them with any necessary medical documentation to explain your absence. If your injuries lead to lost wages, this will be important when calculating your damages and potential compensation.
7. Keep Track of Your Vehicle’s Condition
If your vehicle is damaged in the accident, it’s important to have it inspected by a certified auto body shop. Keep records of all repairs. If your car is totaled, this can be part of the compensation you seek from your insurance claim or lawsuit. You should keep copies of all repair documentation, as well as insurance information pertaining to a total loss.
If you need a rental car, you may be able to get it through insurance if you have rental reimbursement. If you do not have rental reimbursement, you should save all receipts for the rental to get reimbursed by the other vehicle’s insurance.
8. Review Your Legal Options
You should consult with The Irwin Law Firm because we are an experienced car accident law firm. We will go over your legal options and provide you with the necessary support when dealing with your insurance company and the other vehicle insurance company.
We will help you understand whether you have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit, and will help you navigate any disputes over fault or compensation with the other driver’s insurance company.
9. Avoid Discussing Your Accident Publicly
It’s important not to discuss the details of the accident publicly, especially on social media. Anything you post could be used by the other party, their insurance company, or their lawyers to undermine your case. Even if you feel fine, avoid posting about your injuries or accident experience until your case is resolved.
How to Know if You Should Call The Irwin Law Firm
How do you know if you need to call us to represent you? This is an important question, and the answer is simple – if you were injured in an accident and feel that you are not at fault, then it’s a good idea to consult The Irwin Law Firm – we are an experienced and trustworthy injury law firm that specializes in car accidents in New York.
Injuries Beyond Minor Soreness
If your car accident resulted in injuries that are more serious than soreness that resolved in a day or two, you should consider hiring The Irwin Law Firm. Injuries like broken bones, whiplash, concussions, or spinal injuries can require long-term medical care, significant medical bills, and lost wages.
We will help you understand your rights, assist in coordinating your medical treatment, and ensure you are more than fairly compensated for your injuries, pain, suffering, and any other losses. Additionally, if the injuries require long-term rehabilitation or permanent care, we will fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
Case is Complex and/or Involves Multiple Parties
Some car accidents can be more complicated due to factors like multiple vehicles involved, unclear fault, or more severe damage. If your accident involves several parties (such as multiple drivers, pedestrians, trucks, or even a government entity responsible for poor road conditions), the case can become legally complex.
In these situations, it’s best to have a lawyer like The Irwin Law Firm who can investigate the case, gather evidence, and navigate the complexities of multiple-party claims. We will also help ensure you receive the appropriate compensation and that your rights are protected throughout the process.
You Need Help Dealing with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be a hassle, especially when they downplay your injuries and offer you less compensation than what you deserve. Many people become overwhelmed because insurance companies are very difficult to work with. This is another reason why you will want to hire The Irwin Law Firm.
Our team is extremely skilled at negotiating with insurance companies and we will protect you from the insurance companies who will try to take advantage of you. From handling various items of insurance claim paperwork to ensuring that your settlement covers all your losses, The Irwin Law Firm provides peace of mind and maximum compensation throughout the process.
Disputes Over Liability
Another reason some of our clients hire The Irwin Law Firm after an accident is a dispute over liability. If there is a dispute about who is at fault or if the other driver is denying responsibility, we can help gather the evidence needed to establish liability.
This can include reviewing police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and even accident reconstruction. The Irwin Law Firm will work diligently to protect your interests and ensure that the responsible party is held accountable, so you can get the compensation you deserve.
Loss of Property
In cases where your vehicle is severely damaged or totaled, or if you lose valuable personal property in the accident, we can assist with ensuring adequate compensation. Insurance companies often undervalue the worth of your vehicle or personal items, or they may offer insufficient repair costs.
The Irwin Law Firm will ensure your property is valued favorably for you and we will work to make sure you’re not left with out-of-pocket expenses. If the insurance company refuses to provide the coverage you are entitled to, legal action may be necessary to recover your losses.
What The Irwin Law Firm, PLLC Can Do for You and Your Car Accident Case
We understand that the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful. The Irwin Law Firm’s team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the claims and legal processes, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you.
We Investigate the Accident Fully
Our experienced legal team conducts a thorough investigation into the circumstances of your accident. We gather all the necessary evidence, including police reports, eyewitness testimonies, traffic camera footage, and expert analyses. By examining all aspects of the accident, we can establish a clear understanding of liability and ensure that no detail is overlooked. This comprehensive investigation strengthens your case and helps us build a compelling argument for your claim.
We Negotiate with The Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. At The Irwin Law Firm, PLLC, we have a proven track record of negotiating with insurance companies and securing maximum compensation for our clients. Whether it’s pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, or vehicle repair costs, we ensure that you get maximum compensation
We Represent You in Court
If your case cannot be settled through direct negotiations with insurance companies, we are prepared to represent you in court. With 20+ years of personal injury trial and litigation experience, we have a proven track record of success – a 99% success rate. We are your advocates in the courtroom. Our goal is to present your case clearly and persuasively to the judge and jury, working tirelessly to achieve the maximum compensation outcome.
We Aim for Maximum Compensation
The Irwin Law Firm is committed to helping you secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and damages. We understand that the impact of an accident can be long-lasting, both physically and financially. That’s why we aim to recover not just for your immediate expenses, but also for future medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of income.
We Give You a Clear Understanding of Your Legal Rights
Navigating the legal system can be daunting and confusing, especially if you have never been involved in a personal injury case before. We take the time to explain your legal rights and options clearly and in detail. We are always available to answer your questions because we want you to make informed decisions throughout the process. With The Irwin Law Firm on your team, you will never feel alone or in the dark about your case.
We Offer Clarity and Maintain Consistent Communication
Our clients appreciate how we keep them informed and involved every step of the way. Our team offers transparency throughout the entire process, providing you with regular updates on the status of your case. If you ever have questions or concerns, we are here to provide answers and address any uncertainties you may have. We prioritize clear communication to make sure you feel confident and supported.
You’re More Than Just a Case File
At The Irwin Law Firm, you’re not a number — you’re our priority. Unlike the large, impersonal firms, we deliver focused, hands-on personalized service tailored to your unique situation. Our clients are never treated as mere case numbers, and we don’t hide behind receptionists or answering services. Our clients have direct 24-7 access to our team, including personal cell phone numbers.
When you work with us, you get more than representation — you get real support, and we take the time to understand your unique needs and priorities. Our commitment is to provide responsive, professional service grounded in trust and respect, all while ensuring you receive maximum compensation for your injuries.
Se Habla Español
We offer bilingual services to better serve our Spanish-speaking clients. We understand that language barriers should never prevent anyone from receiving the legal help they deserve. If you prefer to communicate in Spanish, our team is here for you.
99% Success Rate, 20+ Years of Legal Experience, 65+ 5-Star Reviews
For over 20 years, The Irwin Law Firm has stood by our fellow injured New Yorkers, achieving a 99% success rate in personal injury cases. We don’t just handle cases—we fight for your peace of mind during what may be your most difficult moments. Every case is prepared with precision and purpose, because you deserve nothing less than the maximum compensation and justice you’re owed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had a great experience working with The Irwin Law Firm. The team was professional, responsive, and truly cared about my case. They explained everything clearly and made the process smooth and stress-free. I’m very happy I chose to work with them and highly recommend their services!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Asking Ethan Irwin to represent me, after my accident, was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He was my staunch advocate when I didn’t know where to turn. He is a highly skilled attorney who kept my best interests in mind and worked tirelessly towards the best outcome. I was also very impressed by the professionalism of Mr. Irwin and his team.
Meet Your Personal Injury Attorney Dedicated to Your Case: Ethan D. Irwin, Esq.
With over 20 years of proven success, Ethan D. Irwin—founder of The Irwin Law Firm, PLLC—has built a reputation as a relentless advocate for his clients. He has conducted trials across the City of New York and in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, consistently delivering results. Ethan has successfully prosecuted countless personal injury cases, earning the trust of those seeking justice and fair compensation.
Achievement Highlights:
– Is honored as a top personal injury and accident attorney by Super Lawyers
– Belongs to New York State Trial Lawyers Association and the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers
– Admitted to practice law in New York State Courts, and the Eastern and Southern Federal District Courts
– Served honorably in the United States Marine Corps
– Is recognized as a Lawyer of Distinction and Ten Best Attorney
You Can Reach Our Top Rated NYC Law Firm 24 Hours a Day – Available for Phone Consultations and Online
When you choose The Irwin Law Firm, PLLC you are not only selecting an attorney, you are enlisting smart, powerful, and compassionate advocates who will go the extra mile and fight for your rights. Let’s discuss your case.
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