Winter in Central New York is no joke, especially this year with our record-breaking snowfall. Snow-covered roads, black ice, and whiteout conditions are a reality from Syracuse to Watertown and beyond. Unfortunately, these conditions also lead to a sharp increase in car accidents every winter.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a winter auto accident, knowing what to do next can protect your safety, rights, and ability to recover compensation. At Greene Reid & Pomeroy, our experienced personal injury attorneys have helped countless Central New Yorkers navigate the aftermath of serious winter crashes.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a winter auto accident in Central NY.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety — Yours and Others’
Your first priority after any accident is safety.
- Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
- If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to avoid secondary collisions. This is especially important on icy roads where stopping distances are longer.
- Turn on hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles if available.
Winter-specific tip: Be cautious when exiting your vehicle. Ice on the roadway or shoulder can cause slips and falls, leading to additional injuries.
Step 2: Call Law Enforcement
In New York, you should contact the police after any accident involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
A police officer will:
- Secure the scene
- Document weather and road conditions
- Create an official accident report, which can be critical evidence later
Be factual, but avoid speculating or admitting fault, especially when winter conditions are involved. Be careful not to say things like “It was my fault,” “I slid on ice” or even “I’m fine.” All of these statements can be used against you. Stick to facts only, no conclusions: “The road was icy,” “Visibility was poor,” and “I’d like to get checked out by a medical professional.” And don’t be afraid to say you need a moment to collect yourself before saying anything at all.
Step 3: Document the Scene (If You Can Do It Safely)
Winter accidents often come down to road conditions, visibility, and speed, all of which can change quickly. If you are physically able:
Take photos or videos of:
- Snow, ice, slush, or untreated roads
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks or lack thereof
- Traffic signs, signals, or obstructed views
- Weather conditions (snowfall, fog, freezing rain)
These details can be crucial in proving negligence or unsafe driving behavior.
Step 4: Exchange Information & Secure Witnesses
Exchange the following with all drivers involved:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle registration
If there are witnesses, get their names and contact details as well. Independent witnesses can be especially valuable in winter accident cases where fault may be disputed.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Even If You “Feel Fine”
Cold weather and adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious injuries like:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Back and spinal injuries
Seek medical care as soon as possible and follow all treatment recommendations. Medical records are not only vital for your health, they also establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company with Caution
You should report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but be careful:
- Stick to basic facts
- Do not provide recorded statements without legal guidance
- Do not accept early settlement offers
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by blaming weather conditions even when another driver failed to adjust their driving for snow or ice.
Step 7: Understand Fault in Winter Driving Accidents
Many drivers assume that “bad weather” means no one is at fault. That’s not true under New York law.
Drivers are expected to:
- Adjust speed for conditions
- Maintain safe following distances
- Use reasonable care in snow, ice, and reduced visibility
Failing to do so can still constitute negligence even during a snowstorm.
New York also follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault.
Step 8: Speak With a Central NY Personal Injury Attorney
Winter auto accidents often involve complex questions of liability, insurance disputes, and serious injuries. Before making any decisions that could affect your claim, it’s wise to speak with an experienced local attorney.
At Greene Reid & Pomeroy, we:
- Understand Central New York road conditions
- Know how winter weather impacts accident investigations
- Fight insurance companies that try to shift blame unfairly
- Help injured victims pursue full and fair compensation
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in New York?
In most New York auto accident cases, the statute of limitations is:
- 3 years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims
- 2 years for wrongful death claims
However, certain cases, especially those involving municipalities or public roadways, may have much shorter deadlines.
Don’t Let Winter Conditions Freeze Your Rights
A winter auto accident can leave you dealing with injuries, lost income, vehicle damage, and uncertainty about what comes next. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
If your family has questions after a winter accident, or you need some clarity before making insurance decisions, contact us at 315-492-2222 to speak with our office. A short conversation can prevent much bigger problems later.
