Every year, thousands of New Yorkers are involved in car accidents that leave them injured, unable to work, and facing mounting medical bills. If you’ve been in a crash that wasn’t your fault, you deserve compensation – but winning your case depends largely on the evidence you collect.
At Proner & Proner, our team led by Mitchell Proner has been helping accident victims across New York City for over 60 years. We’ve secured millions in settlements for our clients because we understand exactly what evidence makes the difference between a denied claim and a substantial settlement. Let’s talk about it.
What to Gather at the Accident Scene (Urgently!)
The moments after an accident are crucial for collecting evidence that might disappear later. If you’re physically able (and only if it’s safe to do so), try to gather.
Photographs and Videos
Your smartphone can be your most powerful tool at an accident scene. Take pictures of:
- All vehicles involved, capturing the damage from multiple angles
- The entire accident scene including road conditions
- Skid marks on the road
- Traffic signs or signals in the area
- Your visible injuries
“I’ve seen cases completely turn around because of the pictures of the incident,” said Mitchell Proner, in our latest Youtube Live.
Contact Information
Collect from everyone involved:
- Names, phone numbers, and addresses
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Contact information for any witnesses
Even if the police collect this information, having your own record provides a backup that could prove invaluable.
Police Report
Always call the police after an accident. The responding officer will create an official accident report that includes:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Statement of facts about what happened
- Names and information of parties involved
- Statements from witnesses
- Citations issued
- Officer’s assessment of what happened
This document serves as an official record and carries significant weight with insurance companies and in court.
The amount of time you’re getting treatment, the quality and quantity of visits to doctors, the type of treatment that you get, whether it’s injections, whether you need a surgery, whether you, in fact, have that surgery, diagnostic testing, X-ray, MRIs that come back positive, all these factors will increase the value of your claim.
Medical Evidence: Documenting Your Injuries
The foundation of any successful car accident claim is thorough medical documentation. Your lawyer will help you to get the following information:
Emergency Medical Records
If you were transported by ambulance or visited the emergency room, these records establish the immediate connection between the accident and your injuries.
“Never refuse medical attention after an accident,” advises Proner. “Even if you think you’re just shaken up, some serious injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Getting checked out protects both your health and your legal case.”
Follow-up Treatment Records
Keep detailed records of:
- All doctor visits
- Specialist consultations
- Physical therapy sessions
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment needed
- Home care services
Each medical record strengthens the link between the accident and your ongoing health issues.
Medical Bills and Expenses
Save every receipt related to your injuries, including:
- Hospital bills
- Doctor’s visits costs
- Medication expenses
- Therapy costs
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Home modifications needed due to injuries
These documents help calculate the financial impact of your injuries.
Evidence of Financial Losses
Car accidents don’t just cause physical pain – they hit your wallet hard. Be clear with:
Lost Wages
If you’ve missed work due to your injuries, collect:
- Pay stubs from before and after the accident
- Letters from your employer stating missed days
- Documentation of sick leave or vacation time used
- Statements showing reduced hours or responsibilities
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Evidence of Non-Economic Damages
Some of the most significant impacts of an accident can’t be measured in money. Document:
Expert Testimony and Reports
At Proner & Proner, we often strengthen cases by bringing in experts:
- Accident Reconstruction Specialists who can scientifically demonstrate how the crash occurred
- Medical Experts who can explain the long-term implications of your injuries
- Economic Experts who calculate lifetime financial impacts of permanent disabilities
Why Proner & Proner is your best option
With 60 years of experience handling New York City accident cases, our team knows exactly what evidence will make your case strongest. We have:
- A network of investigators who can secure time-sensitive evidence
- Relationships with top medical and technical experts
- Experience negotiating with every major insurance company
- A track record of successful settlements and verdicts
- Resources to build comprehensive, compelling cases
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in New York City, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact Proner & Proner today for a free consultation. We’ll help you gather and preserve the evidence you need to win your case and get the compensation you deserve.
We return our clients’ phone calls. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. I give out my personal cell phone number to all my clients, and I tell them they can feel free to contact me at any time. That’s what makes us different.
