5 Things To Do if You’re at Fault for a Car Accident in Utica, NY
Car accidents can cause stress, confusion, and financial trouble. If you caused the crash, the legal and insurance issues feel heavier. New York law treats fault seriously, but you still have rights. You need clear steps to protect yourself and reduce the harm that follows.
Here’s what you need to do if you caused a collision in Utica, New York.
1. Stay at the Scene and Stay Safe
It’s critical to remain at the scene of any accident. Leaving—even briefly—can result in serious legal consequences, as New York law considers it a hit-and-run offense. Instead, follow the law by stopping, assessing the situation, and offering help if anyone appears injured.
Check on passengers and others involved. If it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic and activate your hazard lights. Use cones or flares if available to help prevent a secondary collision while awaiting assistance.
If anyone seems injured, call for medical help immediately. Don’t try to evaluate the severity yourself—leave that to trained paramedics. Stay calm, communicate clearly, and avoid assigning blame or speculating about fault.
Remaining present, cooperative, and composed not only protects your legal standing but also demonstrates responsibility—something that matters to both law enforcement and insurance companies reviewing the incident.
2. Call the Police and Report the Crash
In New York, police must respond to accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or major property damage. When officers arrive, they’ll create an official accident report, which often serves as key evidence in legal and insurance matters.
Provide your license, registration, and insurance details. Stick to the facts—avoid speculation or guesses—and ensure your statement is included. If witnesses are present, officers may take their accounts as well.
These reports can significantly impact how fault and compensation are determined, so accuracy and clarity are essential.
3. Gather Facts and Contact Info
Once it’s safe, collect key details at the scene. Exchange names, contact, and insurance information, and document license plates. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant signs or hazards. If witnesses are present, get their contact information—neutral accounts can be valuable in disputed cases.
Note the weather, lighting, traffic, and anything unusual while details are fresh. Well-organized evidence strengthens your claim and is often essential during insurance evaluations or legal proceedings. Both insurers and attorneys rely on this information to determine fault and support your case.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve left the scene and ensured your safety, contact your insurance company to report the accident. Most policies require prompt notification—often within just a few days. Failing to meet this deadline can jeopardize your ability to receive benefits.
Because New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, your own insurer is responsible for covering basic medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. However, this coverage is only available if you notify them in a timely manner.
When speaking with your insurer, stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or accepting blame. Provide the police report once it becomes available, along with any photos, witness information, and repair estimates you’ve collected. Keep your statements consistent with what you told law enforcement.
5. Avoid Admitting Legal Fault
Even if you believe you caused the accident, it’s important not to admit fault. That assumption could later prove incorrect—weather conditions, poor road maintenance, or the actions of other drivers may have contributed in ways you didn’t realize at the time. Do not admit fault to the police, the other driver, or your insurance company.
New York follows a pure comparative fault system, where multiple parties can share responsibility. Fault is assigned in percentages—for example, one driver might be 70% at fault, another 30%. A premature admission can unfairly shift the majority of blame onto you, even if the evidence tells a different story.
You are required to provide truthful information, but you are not obligated to apologize or explain what happened. Stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or statements that could be interpreted as accepting blame.
Get Legal Advice Before You Act
After a crash, you may be pressured to settle or provide a statement to the other driver’s insurer. Before responding, consult a personal injury attorney. Legal guidance helps protect your rights under New York’s no-fault system and can be critical if you’re facing a lawsuit that exceeds your coverage limits.
An attorney can also investigate contributing factors like road conditions or mechanical issues to potentially reduce your share of fault. Consultations are often available to help you explore your options with no immediate obligation.
Schedule a Consultation With a Personal Injury Lawyer
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming—especially if you believe you may have been at fault. You don’t have to face the legal and financial challenges alone. A car accident attorney can review your case, examine the evidence, and help protect your rights under New York law. Understanding the role of a car accident lawyer gives you a clearer picture of how they can support you through insurance disputes, liability claims, and court proceedings.
Potential consequences such as insurance disputes, liability claims, and out-of-pocket costs can be significant. Legal guidance helps you understand how New York’s fault rules apply and what steps to take next.
During a consultation, an attorney will review accident reports, injury documentation, and insurance communications to help clarify your options and prepare for any legal developments.