Car accident claims can be a nightmare to navigate. One part of the problem is the presence of legalities that can be deceptively complex.
Additionally, there is the fact that a recovery process is likely going on that is both physically and mentally draining.
Many people do not have the fortitude to deal with the process of getting the compensation they deserve. However, hiring the right NYC car accident attorney can make all the difference.
Apart from the invaluable expertise in tackling the claim, there is access to resources that would not otherwise be available. Below is a guide to help with securing the right legal professional.
Understanding Car Accidents in New York
What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in New York City?
Some of the typical reasons car accidents happen in New York are:
Distracted driving
Tailgating
Failure to yield the right of way
Speeding
Drugs and alcohol
Human error
Of course, this list is by no means exhaustive. Similarly, the kinds of injuries sustained by victims of crashes can vary. This means that treatment needs can sometimes be very extreme.
In some situations, the affected party is simply unable to cope with the changes that the ordeal introduces.
Successfully filing a car accident injury claim is typically the best option, as doing so is likely to allow access to the finances needed to get back to an acceptable standard of living.
Car Accident Statistics in New York City
Crashes and their associated injuries are more widespread than people may think. Take a moment to review these numbers:
Over 228,000 motor vehicle accidents were reported in 2018.
The average number of accidents in 2018 was 624 daily.
An injury or death has occurred in 40% of NYC accidents.
The Best Time to Hire a Car Accident Attorney
When Is a Lawyer Needed for a Car Accident Claim in New York?
Here are some of the best times to consider retaining a personal injury lawyer after a motor vehicle accident:
After suffering serious injuries or significant property damage
If there are disputes over damages and compensation amounts
If the insurance company is casting blame in the victim's direction for the accident
It is highly recommended that a reputable car accident lawyer be contacted in the shortest possible order. Our team can advise on how to hire the best truck accident lawyer in NY.
The only things that should be given greater priority are getting medical attention and providing a statement to the police officer at the scene if there is one.
Time Limitations on Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Victims are allowed three years from the date of the accident to file a claim in New York.
This means that after that time has passed, it is no longer possible to pursue compensation through the legal system. Any exceptions would apply only to extenuating circumstances.
It’s essential to hire a car accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure the deadline is not missed. Waiting too long can make a claim more difficult to pursue.
The integrity of the available evidence may be compromised. Additionally, the negligent party may argue that the injuries could not have been severe if the victim chose to wait.
Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
What makes a good New York personal injury lawyer so beneficial to a car accident claim? Consider the following duties typically executed by a legal professional:
Protecting the victim's interests
Determining liability
Gathering evidence
Evaluating damages accurately
Filing a civil lawsuit if necessary
Negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation
Providing peace of mind and reducing stress during the claims process
The best way to view the attorney is as an extension of the victim during matters involving car accident injuries.
There is not only extensive knowledge of the legal elements, but there is also a genuine interest in securing a proper settlement for the client.
Choosing the Best Car Accident Lawyer
Many New York car accident attorneys advertise their services to crash victims. However, the quality of the engagement is not the same across the board.
A personal injury claim will require tremendous knowledge, experience, and other resources. For more information, the best car accident attorneys in Long Island may be able to help. Here are some of the key points to bear in mind if the goal is to choose the best possible attorney:
Look for an experienced car accident lawyer with a proven track record of success.
Check for reviews and testimonials from past clients.
Ensure the attorney has the necessary resources to handle the case.
Consider the lawyer’s time spent handling car accident matters.
The Car Accident Lawsuit Process
What Happens During a Car Accident Investigation?
Multiple investigations will occur after a car accident. Law enforcement will conduct the primary one.
This is one of the reasons that there will usually be a statement taken from the parties who were involved. The idea is to piece together the definitive version of what took place.
However, a car accident attorney will also investigate the crash site to gather evidence.
Apart from looking at the site, witness statements, visual media, and more will be reviewed to ensure that a solid case is built to protect the victim's interests.
How Are Victims Compensated in a Car Accident Case?
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, the victim may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and future financial needs.
The amount of compensation awarded will depend on the severity of the injuries and the complexity of the case. Two accidents can look the same and yield completely different settlements.
Each matter will usually be characterized by unique circumstances, and it is the responsibility of a New York car accident lawyer to understand them well.
Previous knowledge and experience will then be thrown into the equation to yield the best possible result.
Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
Getting compensation for a car crash is not a straightforward feat. Lawsuits are complex, time-consuming, and require complying with strict deadlines and procedures.
A good car accident attorney will guide their client through every step of the process.
While it is important to get the job done to secure compensation, keeping the victim informed and comfortable also comes with the territory.
Comparative Fault Rules in New York
New York City has pure comparative fault rules, which means that a victim is entitled to receive compensation for their injuries once they are not entirely at fault for the accident.
Note that the amount received will typically be affected by the level of responsibility for the crash that falls on the victim.
In some car accident cases, the injured party is partially to blame. For example, if such a person were 20% responsible for the collision, then they may only get 80% of the maximum possible compensation amount.
A car accident attorney will usually ensure that their client understands where the lines are drawn and how a settlement may be affected.
Resources for Car Accident Victims in New York
While compensation is great, making strides toward receiving it is sometimes not enough to foster a victim's sense of comfort during a personal injury lawsuit.
A good car accident attorney can provide an injured party with resources and support during the claims process.
Assuming the claim is successful, there may be compensation for emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
These funds can be used for counseling and other programs that can help with restoring a sense of normalcy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Injury in New York City?
Three years are allowed in New York, and this is counted from the day the car crash happened.
While this may sound like a generous window, it is usually harder to reliably secure full compensation as time passes.
An NYC car accident lawyer will do their best work when they get to build a case at the onset of the matter.
How Much Is a Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of a car accident case will depend on the severity of the injuries sustained and the complexity of the matter.
A car accident attorney helps tremendously in determining the value of a case and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure fair compensation is received.
What Steps Should Be Taken after a Car Accident?
Some of the recommended actions to take following a car accident are:
Seeking medical attention
Getting the contact details of involved parties and witnesses
Providing a statement to the police
Capturing picture and video evidence
Neglecting to speak to insurance companies without a lawyer
Refusing to admit fault
Calling a New York personal injury law firm
Schedule a Free Consultation Today with a Trusted Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney in New York!
Motor vehicle accident litigation is not straightforward. It will require resources, experience, and an unwavering drive to succeed.
After being involved in a crash, you are likely suffering physically, emotionally, and potentially even financially.
Do not allow negligent persons to get away after turning your life upside down.
The Law Office of Carl Maltese is here to help you get the compensation you deserve! We have secured millions of dollars for victims like you across numerous automobile accident cases.
Schedule a free consultation with us today!