What to Do After a Minor Car Accident

A minor car accident can happen at any time on Long Island. A small fender-bender in a parking lot or a car crash at a traffic light might not seem like a serious incident, but even a small crash can lead to injuries, costly vehicle repairs, and unexpected disputes with an insurance company.

Knowing the right steps to take following a minor accident ensures that victims protect both their health and their legal rights.

Small accidents can still cause serious injuries that require legal assistance. However, it's also important to ensure that the right steps are taken throughout the process. Here's what to do after a minor car accident.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess Safety - Pull to the Side of the Road

Following a car accident, things are often confusing. Even if the crash seems minor, it's important to remain calm and ensure everyone is safe. Injuries should be assessed and if possible, the vehicles should be pulled to the side of the road, so that they are not blocking traffic. Also, make sure to turn on hazard lights.

In some minor accidents, the drivers believe that they can take care of it without police officers or insurance intervention, but this could have some serious legal consequences. It could also be illegal, as New York State has laws about reporting accidents.

Step 2: Call the Police to Get an Accident Report

Though it might seem tempting to not call the police, this could be a mistake. In New York, if there are injuries or property damage that exceeds $1,000, the accident must be reported to the local police. Even if the damage seems like it might be only a couple of hundred dollars, oftentimes, there is hidden, significant damage, such as a bent frame, which can cause well over $1,000 in damage. A police report from the accident scene can be an invaluable tool for protecting your rights.

When police arrive, they will document the scene, take note of the details of the crash, and take statements from all drivers and other passengers that may be involved. They will also speak to other parties who have seen the accident, such as the drivers of other vehicles in the area. The report will contain important details about all parties involved that can be used if a law suit will be filed in the future.

Step 3: Exchange Information with Other Parties

Once everyone's safety is accounted for, and you have contacted law enforcement, it's important to exchange contact and insurance information with any other drivers involved. Other information you should obtain include:

• Driver’s license number

• License plate number

• Vehicle make, model, and year

• Insurance company name and policy number

It is also helpful to collect contact information from any witnesses. Neutral third-party accounts can be crucial in establishing what really happened. Whatever you do, also avoid discussing fault. This is not the time to start blaming others or determine who caused the accident.

Step 4: Document the Scene Following a Car Crash

Even in a minor accident, it's important to document everything for an insurance claim. Use your phone to take pictures and videos of the following:

• Damage to all vehicles involved

• The location of the accident

• Road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and signage

• Any visible injuries

Photos and videos will create an accurate record that insurance companies and attorneys can use to establish legal liability and the extent of damages. For more information, this car accident attorney in Long Island NY may be able to help.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

One of the most overlooked steps after a minor accident is seeking medical care. Many people assume that if they can walk away from the crash, they are fine. However, injuries such as whiplash, soft tissue damage, or concussions may not appear until hours or even days later. The same can be said for internal bleeding.

Visiting a doctor right away ensures that injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. It also creates a medical record linking the injuries to the accident. This is critical if medical expenses or long-term treatment become necessary. Oftentimes, insurance companies will argue that injuries were caused by other incidents, but with a medical record, that can't happen.

Male doctor examining the shoulder of a female patient, who is sitting on a hospital bed.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

New York is a no-fault insurance state. This means that every driver first uses their own insurance provider for medical expenses and lost wages. This is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Even for minor accidents, drivers are required to notify their insurance company as soon as possible following the accident, even if they are not hurt.

When speaking with insurance representatives, stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault, speculating about the cause of the accident, or minimizing injuries. These statements could later be used to reduce or deny coverage if a law suit is necessary.

Step 7: Understand Your Legal Obligations in New York

In addition to notifying your insurer, New York law requires drivers involved in an accident to file a Report of Motor Vehicle Accident (MV-104) with the DMV if property damage exceeds $1,000 or if anyone is injured. This form must be submitted within 10 days of the accident. Failure to do so can result in license suspension.

Even if the crash appears minor, following these legal requirements avoids unnecessary penalties.

Step 8: Track Expenses and Symptoms

Accident-related costs can add up quickly, even from a small crash. Keep records of:

• Medical bills and receipts

• Lost wages from time off work

• Vehicle repair invoices

• Transportation costs to medical appointments

It is also wise to keep a journal of any physical symptoms or limitations following the accident. Even minor accidents can cause ongoing discomfort that impacts daily life. Documenting these effects strengthens any potential injury claim.

Step 9: When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

Many drivers assume that attorneys are only necessary after major collisions. The truth is that even minor accidents can become complicated. Insurance companies may dispute liability, undervalue vehicle damage, or deny coverage for medical expenses. They can advise on what to do after a hit-and-run accident as well.

An experienced Long Island car accident attorney can provide guidance, negotiate with insurers, and ensure victims are not taken advantage of. The Law Office of Carl Maltese regularly represents clients in both major and minor accidents, helping them recover fair compensation for their losses. They can also assist with what to do after a car accident with injuries.

Legal representation can be especially important if:

• The other driver denies responsibility

• Injuries appear after the initial accident

• Insurance refuses to pay full compensation

• There is confusion about filing requirements

A “minor” accident may not feel like a big deal at first, but the effects can still be significant. From hidden injuries to insurance disputes, the aftermath can be more complicated than expected.

By staying calm, contacting the police, documenting the scene, seeking medical attention, and notifying insurance, drivers can handle the situation responsibly. For added protection, consulting a car accident lawyer ensures that victims receive the support they need to cover expenses and move forward.

The Law Office of Carl Maltese has been serving Long Island for years, guiding accident victims through the recovery process. Whether an accident is major or minor, the firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of those injured by negligent drivers.