What to Do After an Accident in New York or New Jersey
If you've just been in an accident, seek medical care first, then contact IJA Law Group as soon as possible at (914) 220-8393. The steps below protect both your health and your legal claim.
Responsive Communication
Legal issues become even more stressful when people struggle to get updates or answers about their case. The firm prioritizes responsiveness and typically replies within 24 hours whenever possible.
Immediate Steps to Take Right Now
Get medical attention
Even if you feel fine. Some injuries, including closed head injuries, don't show symptoms right away.
Call the police
If the accident happened on the road or a job site, and get a copy of the report if one is filed.
Document everything
Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage, and get the names and contact information of witnesses.
Avoid giving a recorded statement
To any insurance company, including your own, before speaking with an attorney.
Contact IJA Law Group
as soon as possible so we can start protecting your case immediately.
What to Do After Specific Accident Types
Steps by Accident Type
After a Car or Auto Accident
Move to safety if possible, exchange insurance information, and avoid admitting fault at the scene, even out of politeness. Fault is determined by evidence, not by what's said in the moment.
After a Trucking Accident
Try to get the truck's license plate, DOT number, and the trucking company's name if visible. These cases often involve both a driver and a company, and that information matters.
After a Construction Accident
Report the incident to a supervisor and request that it be logged, but understand that a workplace injury report is separate from, and does not replace, speaking with an attorney about a possible claim.
After a Catastrophic Injury
Focus on medical care and keep records of every diagnosis, procedure, and provider. Contact us as soon as you or a family member is able to.
Why Timing Matters
Why You Shouldn't Wait to Call
New York and New Jersey both impose strict deadlines for filing a personal injury claim. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and insurance companies begin building a file designed to minimize what they pay you, often within days of the accident. The sooner an attorney is involved, the sooner your case is protected.
Where We Serve
Local Help Across White Plains, NYC & Northern New Jersey
Whether your accident happened in White Plains, the Bronx, Queens, New York County, Nyack, or in Essex, Bergen, or Hudson County, NJ, we can help you take the right next steps immediately.
Office address: IJA Law Group, 445 Hamilton Avenue, 11th Floor, White Plains, NY 10601 | (914) 220-8393
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I see a doctor even if I feel okay after an accident?
Yes. Some injuries, particularly head and spinal injuries, don't show symptoms immediately. Seeing a doctor also creates a medical record that supports your claim.
Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?
Avoid giving a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize what they pay.
How soon after an accident should I contact a lawyer?
As soon as possible. Evidence and witness memories fade quickly, and both New York and New Jersey have strict deadlines for filing a claim.
Get Immediate Help
If you or someone you love was just injured, don't wait. Reach out now by phone, text, or message, whichever is easiest for you.
Serving White Plains, the Bronx, Queens, New York County, Nyack, and northern New Jersey. Free consultations. Spanish-speaking service available.