New York is an excellent place to visit. Nevertheless, it can be quite confusing to navigate. So much is happening that accidents are likely. But what do you do in such a situation? Read on to find out. Knowing what to do next will at least make the entire situation appear less chaotic.
Make sure you’re safe first
The first thing to do is to ensure that you are safe and those who are with you are safe as well. A hit can cause a stressful situation. Thus, you should take a moment to evaluate the situation. You can move to a safer place if possible. New York traffic is quick, and escaping danger is the first and foremost thing.
Call 911, even if it seems minor
In New York, accidents, even minor ones, should be reported. This may be of particular use to travellers, as the report serves as a verifiable document to insurance companies, rental car groups, or anyone else who may need to know what transpired.
Take photos and gather data
Take pictures of:
- The vehicles involved
- The street or intersection
- Traffic signals or signs
- Any visible injuries
- Damage from multiple angles.
Next, obtain the other driver’s details like:
- Names
- Telephone number
- Insurance information
- License plate number.
This will be important as evidence.
Look for witnesses
New York accidents often involve other motorists, pedestrians, or shop employees. In case someone observed the occurrence, inquire about their contact details. Having a brief witness statement will prove helpful in case the circumstances are disorienting.
Contact your car rental company or rideshare provider
Driving a hired car? Call the company immediately. They will take you through their process. It usually involves filing an accident report and possibly exchanging vehicles.
In the case of an Uber or Lyft, the driver will record the accident. But you should still document everything yourself as a passenger.
Inform your insurer or credit card company
Your personal auto insurance, travel insurance, or credit card coverage may apply, depending on your situation. They all have different policies on rental cars, health costs, and travel insurance. Get in touch with them soon.
Watch out for any symptoms
You may be okay at the moment. But serious injuries might manifest later. During the next few hours or days, monitor your body. If something does not feel right, visit a hospital. There are numerous walk-in emergency centers in NYC, all of which can give documentation that might be valuable to the insurance.
Seek legal guidance in case of serious injuries
Should you or any other person suffer serious injuries, then it is prudent to have the best auto accident lawyer in New York on board. They will assist you in navigating your rights and making insurance claims. This is so reassuring for someone unfamiliar with New York law.
The final word
An accident can be overwhelming. It can be more confusing in a crowded city like New York. However, the situation is manageable when you know what to do.
