What to do with a car after a fender-bender can be one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, legal issues to face immediately following an auto accident according to a pamphlet, "If You Have An Auto Accident," produced and distributed by the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA).

Legal experts say a driver could be held liable for damages that occur to vehicles not directly involved in the accident, but as the result of their trying to avoid the site of the mishap.

The pamphlets are revised annually by NYSBA and include the following titles: "HIV/AIDS and the Law," "Your Rights to an Appeal in a Civil Case," "Your Rights if Arrested," "Buying and Selling Real Estate," "Your Rights as a Crime Victim," "Divorce & Separation," "Living Wills and Health Care Proxies," "Rights of Residential Owners and Tenants," "The Role of the Lawyer in Home Purchase Transactions," "Why You Need a Will," "You and Your Lawyer," "If You Have An Auto Accident," and "Adoption in New York."

Last year, a total of 302,350 pamphlets were distributed across New York state to schools, law offices, and numerous events organized by local bar associations.

Single copies of these pamphlets are available free of charge to the public by sending a self-addressed envelope to: Pamphlets, New York State Bar Association, One Elk Street, Albany, NY 12207. Desired titles should be indicated on the envelope.