After the initial shock of getting into a car accident, most people are left shaken, confused, and not sure of what to do after the dust settles. That’s why understanding what to do after a car accident in Rochester, NY can help. There are steps you can take to protect your rights and improve your chances of getting the compensation you’re entitled to. Acting early in the process can make a significant difference in your car accident case.
About Us
Offering more than 50 years of combined experience, Gattuso & Ciotoli has been a trusted name in New York’s legal community for decades. From the very beginning, we built our firm on a simple but powerful belief: every client deserves personal attention, clear guidance, and a legal team that truly cares about their future.
Over the years, we’ve cultivated meaningful relationships with clients who put their trust in us, with colleagues who respect our work, and with a community that knows we stand for honesty, professionalism, and proven results. When you choose Gattuso & Ciotoli, you choose much more than a team of experienced attorneys. You’re choosing dedicated advocates committed to seeing your case through to the end with the focus and care it deserves.
Prioritize Safety and Medical Care
Your first priority should always be to ensure everyone’s safety. That means moving your vehicle to a secure location if possible and checking yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can cover up serious issues like whiplash, concussion, or internal injuries, so it’s important to seek medical attention right away, as documentation of your injuries is important for any car accident case.
Call Law Enforcement and Document the Scene
Next, you need to contact the police and report the accident. A police report can be crucial when you’re dealing with insurance companies and trying to manage your claim. While waiting, take photos of any vehicle damage, skid marks, and traffic signals, and collect the names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all involved parties. If there are witnesses, it’s also important to get their contact information.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. When you talk to them, it’s very important that you stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or minimizing your injuries. Insurance adjusters may attempt to downplay the extent of your damages, so it’s essential to be precise and consistent.
Avoid Common Mistakes After an Accident
Small mistakes can harm your case or reduce the compensation you could get. Some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Avoid sharing details about the accident on social media, as anything you post could be used against you.
- Don’t provide recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting a lawyer first.
- Attend all medical appointments and follow your doctor’s instructions. Missing treatments or neglecting medical guidance can weaken your claim.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your rights while giving yourself the strongest chance at getting compensated fairly.
Gather and Preserve Evidence of Damages
Strong cases depend on solid evidence, so it’s important to keep repair estimates, medical bills, and proof of your lost income as organized as possible. Maintaining a journal of your pain, emotional struggles, and physical limitations can also be valuable.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer:
With 2.44 million people injured in car accidents in 2023 and claim payouts increasing by 6.1%, averaging $162,000 per case for non-lethal injuries, it’s clear that finding the right law firm is just as important as having a lawyer in the first place. Gattuso & Ciotoli have years of experience handling car accident cases in Rochester, and we know the ins and outs of local roads, courts, and insurance practices.
We focus on building strong, personalized cases tailored to the unique circumstances of every individual client, whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a complicated multi-vehicle accident. Our team handles every step of the process, so when you work with us, you get our unwavering commitment to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
Q: Can Your Prior Driving Record Affect Your Car Accident Case?
A: Your prior driving record can sometimes influence your car accident case. While a clean driving record can support your credibility, a previous accident or prior traffic violations could be used by insurers to question your driving habits. However, prior history doesn’t automatically determine fault in a new accident. Our team can appropriately frame your record and focus the case on the facts to keep your claim on track.
Q: Does Being Partially at Fault Affect My Ability to Recover Damages?
A: No, being partially at fault doesn’t affect your ability to recover damages. New York utilizes a pure comparative fault rule. This means even if you’re somewhat responsible for the accident, you can get compensated. When fault is assessed, you are assigned a percentage of responsibility, and any damages you’re awarded are then reduced by that percentage.
Q: Can Minor Accidents Still Result in Long-Term Medical or Financial Consequences?
A: Yes, minor accidents can still result in long-term medical and financial consequences. Minor accidents can cause injuries like whiplash, soft tissue damage, or chronic pain that could develop days or weeks later. There could also be hidden financial consequences associated with these injuries, like lost wages or even diminished earning potential. Our team can ensure that all relevant factors are considered when pursuing compensation.
Q: Are Passengers in a Vehicle Treated Differently Under New York Law?
A: No, passengers in a vehicle aren’t treated differently under New York law. Passengers have the right to file their own claims if they’re injured, even if they weren’t driving. However, the amount of compensation they receive depends on the driver’s fault, the insurance coverage, and any comparative fault assigned. Our team can guide passengers through the claims process, making sure they receive the medical care and financial compensation they’re entitled to.
Stand Strong With a Dedicated Rochester Car Accident Team
You don’t have to face insurance companies, complicated legal rules, or mounting medical bills after a car accident by yourself. At Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, we fight for our clients at every stage of the process, and we’re relentless when it comes to protecting your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.