Car Accidents

A motor-vehicle collision can put your financial security at risk between mounting medical bills and the cost of repairs. New York law generally allows car accident victims to seek compensation for those damages — but recovering a fair payout means building a strong claim first. The most valuable evidence depends on the circumstances, but often includes:

1. The Official Police Report

Responding officers document their impressions of the scene, including any suspicion that the other driver was impaired, drowsy, or distracted.

2. Eyewitness Statements

Passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians who saw what happened can help establish what occurred, particularly if you weren't able to observe everything yourself.

3. Video Footage

Surveillance camera or dash cam footage from the area can be critical to determining fault, and accident-reconstruction experts can sometimes determine what happened from photos of the wreckage — so it's worth photographing the scene before you leave, if you're able.

4. Toxicology Reports

If police conducted chemical testing at the scene, the results can help prove impairment contributed to the crash — which may also support a claim for punitive damages in addition to standard compensatory damages.

5. Medical Records

Proving liability is only half the claim — you also need to document the damages themselves. Keep every receipt and invoice for injury-related expenses, including replacement services, property repairs, and home or vehicle modifications.

Hurt in a Car Accident?

Get a free, confidential case review from Pascale Law — there's no cost or obligation to find out where you stand.