If you were injured in a car accident in Brooklyn and intend to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other motorist, you will need to collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim. The more evidence you can obtain, the more likely you will have a successful claim outcome.

While the moments immediately following a car accident can be extremely stressful and chaotic, particularly when injuries are involved, key evidence will ensure that your legal rights are protected. An experienced car accident lawyer will help you navigate every step of the claims process.

Once the initial shock of the accident has subsided and you have assessed your injuries, it is in your best interest to collect as much evidence as possible immediately following the accident. If your injuries are not too severe, and you can move around safely, take pictures of your injuries, skid marks, debris, or broken glass on the road, the placement of the vehicles, and weather conditions. Keep detailed records of doctors’ reports and medical bills from your treatment. The following are examples of additional pieces of evidence that are valuable:

  • Witness testimony: This is important because the witness provides a firsthand description of what they saw and the events leading up to the accident. The testimony will not be biased if the witness does not know either party. If witnesses were at the scene, ask if they would be willing to provide a statement and ask for their contact information, including name, phone number, and address.
  • Property damage: Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle. This will show where you were hit and the severity of your injuries and provide other vital clues about the circumstances of the accident. If the other motorist claims that you hit them, the photos of the damage to your vehicle may help disprove that.
  • Medical report: Keeping medical records after a car accident is paramount. Firstly, these records serve as a comprehensive account of the injuries sustained and the medical treatments administered. Additionally, in the event of legal proceedings or insurance claims, medical records provide crucial evidence to support your case, helping to establish the extent of your injuries and the associated expenses. Keeping detailed medical records after a car accident is essential for protecting your health, legal interests, and financial well-being.

What Information Is Included in a Police Report?

You should also obtain a copy of the police report after a car accident. The police report summarizes the police officer’s investigation into the events leading up to the collision. This document generally includes some or all of the following details:

  • Approximate date, time, and location of the accident.
  • Information about the individuals involved in the accident, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information.
  • Contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident happen.
  • Diagram of the accident.
  • Weather, road, and lighting conditions during the accident.
  • Statements from the motorists involved.
  • Citations or breaches of the law.

What Steps Should I Take After a Car Accident in Brooklyn?

Unless a car accident is a minor fender-bender that did not cause any property damage or injuries, you should call 911 and report the accident. If the accident caused more than $1,000 in property damage, you must legally report the accident. If there are injuries, make sure that you notify dispatch so that they can send an ambulance to the scene. The following are additional steps you should take after a car accident:

  • Exchange information. Share contact information with the other driver, including driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as an apology when exchanging information. This can be used against you by the driver’s insurance company, which can hurt the outcome of your claim.
  • Take pictures of the accident scene. As discussed, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, your injuries, and anything else that may help your case and provide proof that the other motorist caused the accident.
  • Seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries do not seem serious, ensure you are examined by a medical professional at the accident scene or the nearest emergency room. If you fail to do so, the other motorist and the insurance company will argue that your injuries must not be severe if you do not find it necessary to seek treatment.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Me With My Case?

While you may not need a lawyer if you did not suffer any injuries or property damage, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced car accident lawyer if you were injured and wish to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver. A dedicated lawyer will interview witnesses, collect additional information like surveillance footage, explain legal issues, including contributory negligence and the impact this may have on your settlement, and ensure that your rights are protected.

Our Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki Assist Clients With Every Step of the Claims Process

If you were injured in a car accident and have questions or concerns about the legal process, including what evidence you should gather, do not hesitate to contact our Brooklyn car accident lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki. Call us today at 718-522-1020 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Brooklyn, New York, we serve clients throughout New York City, including The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.