Being involved in an accident is itself a tragedy; you might have suffered damages that are beyond repair, or your car might have been severely damaged by the crash. Anything can be the case, and to deal with the situation, you may want to pursue a legal claim to hold the opposing party accountable for the incident. Car accident lawsuits are tricky as they require a thorough understanding of the law and legal procedures. Going to court alone without legal representation can lead to blunders, and you might forget about compensation. Still, if you plan to proceed with your lawsuit, there are fundamentals that you must follow to ensure you don’t make mistakes that could backfire and cost your case in the long run.

There’s a solution if you don’t know how to proceed with your lawsuit: consult an attorney for assistance. A law firm like  Pottroff & Karlin LLC knows the ins and outs of the legal procedure and can guide you better. They ensure all legal procedures are followed and you are adequately compensated for your incurred damages.

Blunders to stay away from following a Manhattan car accident:

1. Call the Police and Law Enforcement: Call the local police immediately to report the accident. It doesn’t matter if the inflicted damage is minor; you must notify the police. This alone can help set the case in motion. The police will gather the necessary evidence and ensure all involved parties are notified. In a legal claim, having a police report is crucial, as it is the first step in showing that something serious happened.
2. Collect the Other Driver’s Insurance Information: After an accident, people often feel dizzy or lack the energy to gather the necessary information from the other driver. However, it is vital to record details such as the driver’s name, license plate number, contact information, vehicle’s condition, insurance company, and address. This will aid in filing your claim without resistance. At the very least, you should obtain the name and contact number; without this, filing a personal injury claim will be difficult.
3. Do Not Admit Fault: While filing your FIR report, the police may question you. Do not admit fault or any contributing factors that caused the accident. Such admissions can be recorded as testimony and used against you by the defendant to refute your claim. Also, when you meet the driver after the accident, do not say sorry or apologize for causing the accident, as this can be detrimental to your claim. If by any chance you were involved or at fault in the accident, first consult your attorney. They will guide you on what to say and what can affect your lawsuit.
4. Seek Medical Attention: Not all accidents require medical personnel at the scene, but if they are present to check your injuries, cooperate with them. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and whiplash, are not apparent immediately after the crash and can take a few days to show symptoms, impacting your life significantly if ignored. Even if no medical personnel respond to the accident, you should go to the emergency room and see a specialized doctor. Explain the accident to them; they will know what to check and suggest appropriate treatment. This way, you will have proper documentation and a medical record as proof of your injuries.
5. • Take Photos of the Accident and Damages: If you are conscious and have only minor wounds, you should take snapshots of the collision site, the car, and the other driver’s point of impact. Additionally, ask the police officer for any surveillance footage, as it can be valuable evidence to support your claim.
6. Stay Away from Social Media: Many people don’t realize that social media is also a part of our identity, showcasing our well-being, personal life, financial health, and more. After a car accident in Manhattan, avoid engaging in any social media activity until your case is resolved.