NYC Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents can be life-altering events, leaving victims to deal with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In the bustling streets of New York City, where traffic is a constant challenge, the risk of being involved in a car accident is ever-present. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in NYC, seeking the assistance of a qualified NYC car accident lawyer is crucial to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

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Financial Compensation You May Be Entitled To After a Car Accident Injury

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in New York City, you may be entitled to various forms of financial compensation. An NYC car accident lawyer can help you understand and pursue the full range of damages available in your case. Here’s an overview of the types of compensation you may be able to recover:

Medical Expenses From A Car Accident

This is often the most significant component of car accident compensation. It can include:

• Emergency room visits
• Hospital stays
• Surgeries
• Doctor’s appointments
• Prescription medications
• Physical therapy
• Rehabilitation costs
• Future medical expenses related to your injury

An NYC car accident lawyer can help ensure that all your current and future medical expenses are properly documented and included in your claim.

Lost Wages From A Car Accident

If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes not only the time you’ve already missed but also future lost earnings if your injuries will continue to affect your ability to work. An NYC car accident attorney can help calculate these losses, including:

• Salary or hourly wages
• Bonuses
• Commissions
• Self-employment income
• Lost business opportunities
• Loss of Earning Capacity

In cases of severe injuries that affect your long-term ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of earning capacity. This covers the difference between what you would have earned if you hadn’t been injured and what you can now earn. An NYC car accident lawyer can work with economic experts to project these long-term losses.

Pain and Suffering Caused By Car Accidents

This non-economic damage compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries. While it’s more challenging to quantify than medical bills or lost wages, an experienced car accident lawyer can help assess an appropriate amount based on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life.
Emotional Distress
Separate from pain and suffering, emotional distress damages may be available if you’ve suffered psychological impacts from the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

If your injuries have diminished your ability to engage in hobbies, sports, or other activities you previously enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of enjoyment of life.

Loss of Consortium

In cases where injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse, you may be able to claim loss of consortium damages. This can cover loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy.

Property Damage

You’re entitled to compensation for damage to your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident. This typically covers repair costs or the fair market value of your vehicle if it’s a total loss.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Any other expenses directly related to your accident and injuries may be recoverable. This could include transportation costs to medical appointments, home modifications to accommodate a disability, or the cost of hiring help for tasks you can no longer perform due to your injuries.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be awarded in rare cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future. An NYC car accident lawyer can advise you if punitive damages might be applicable in your case.

It’s important to note that New York follows a “no-fault” insurance system, meaning that your insurance company will cover some of your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, if your injuries meet certain thresholds defined by New York law, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party.

How Can an NYC Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, we understand how overwhelming life can become after a car accident. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the legal process and ensure you get the support you need. Here’s how we can help:

• Evaluate Your Case: We will carefully assess the details of your accident, gather evidence, and determine the best course of action to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
• Handle Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts. We’ll negotiate directly with them on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
• Prove Liability: We’ll investigate the cause of the accident, review police reports, gather witness statements, and consult with experts to build a strong case proving who was at fault.
• Calculate Damages: Our car accident attorneys will calculate the full extent of your damages, including not just medical bills and lost wages, but also pain and suffering, future medical needs, and other non-economic losses.
• Litigate if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
• Provide Guidance and Support: Throughout the process, we are here to answer your questions, provide updates, and offer personalized legal advice tailored to your unique situation.

Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Contact Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, today for a free consultation. We’re ready to fight for your rights and help you get your deserved compensation.

Different Types of Car Accident Cases We Take

As experienced NYC car accident lawyers, we handle many car accident cases. Each type of accident presents unique challenges and requires specific legal strategies. Here are some of the common types of car accident cases we take:

Rear-End Collisions

These are among the most common types of car accidents in New York City. While often perceived as minor, rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries, particularly whiplash and other neck injuries. Our NYC car accident lawyers can help establish liability and pursue compensation for your injuries.

T-Bone Accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, these accidents often occur at intersections and can result in severe injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of vehicles. Our team has experience in reconstructing these accidents to prove fault and secure fair compensation.

Head-On Collisions

These are often the most devastating types of car accidents, frequently resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. As your NYC car accident lawyer, we’ll work diligently to investigate the cause of the accident and fight for maximum compensation for victims and their families.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Common on busy NYC highways, these complex accidents often involve multiple parties and insurance companies. Our NYC car accident attorneys have the resources and experience to handle these intricate cases, determining liability and protecting our clients’ rights.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it can leave victims feeling helpless. Our team of NYC car accident lawyers can guide you through the process of seeking compensation through your own insurance policy and, if the driver is identified, pursuing a claim against them.

Drunk Driving Accidents

If a drunk driver has injured you, you may be entitled to both compensatory and punitive damages. Our NYC car accident lawyers will work to hold the intoxicated driver accountable and seek maximum compensation for your injuries.

Distracted Driving Accidents

With the rise of smartphone use, distracted driving has become a major cause of accidents. Our team stays updated on the latest laws regarding distracted driving and can help prove negligence in these cases.

Uber/Lyft Accidents

Rideshare accidents involve unique insurance considerations. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian injured in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, our NYC car accident lawyers can navigate the complexities of these cases.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

In a city like New York, where walking and cycling are common, accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists are unfortunately frequent. These cases often result in serious injuries, and our team is committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable road users.

Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Due to their size and weight, accidents involving trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles often result in severe injuries. These cases can be complex, often involving multiple parties, including the driver, the company, and potentially the vehicle manufacturer. Our NYC truck accident lawyers have the experience to handle these intricate cases.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and accidents often result in serious injuries. Our team understands the unique challenges of motorcycle accident cases and works tirelessly to ensure riders receive fair compensation.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accidents

If you’ve been hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage, you may still have options for compensation. Our NYC car accident lawyers can help you navigate your insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Weather-Related Accidents

New York’s weather conditions, from summer thunderstorms to winter snow and ice, can contribute to accidents. We can help determine if the weather affected your accident and if any parties failed to take appropriate precautions.

Vehicle Defect Accidents

Sometimes, accidents are caused not by driver error but by a defect in the vehicle itself. Our NYC car accident attorneys can help you pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer in these cases.

Road Hazard Accidents

Potholes, inadequate signage, or poorly designed roads can all contribute to accidents. If a road hazard caused your accident, we can help you pursue a claim against the government entity responsible for road maintenance.

No matter what type of car accident you’ve been involved in, our team of NYC car accident lawyers has the knowledge and experience to handle your case effectively. We understand that each accident is unique, and we tailor our approach to the specific circumstances of your case.

Common Injuries from a Car Accident

Car accidents can result in many injuries, some of which may not be immediately noticeable. Here are some of the most common injuries seen in car accidents:

• Whiplash: A common injury caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck during impact.
• Broken Bones: Fractures to arms, legs, ribs, and other bones are frequent in car accidents.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Ranging from mild concussions to severe brain damage, TBIs can affect cognitive functions and quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can lead to partial or full paralysis, requiring lifelong care.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, particularly in the neck and back.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, often requiring emergency medical care.
• Lacerations: Cuts from broken glass or debris, which may require stitches or lead to scarring.
• Bruises and Contusions: Impact from airbags, seatbelts, or the steering wheel can result in severe bruising.

If you experience any of these injuries after a car accident, seeking immediate medical attention is critical to your health and any potential legal claim.

Common Causes of NYC Car Accidents

Car accidents in New York City can occur for many reasons, often due to driver negligence or hazardous road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technology can divert a driver’s attention from the road, leading to accidents.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a frequent cause of accidents, especially in congested city areas where traffic can stop suddenly.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, running red lights, and weaving through traffic create dangerous situations that can lead to collisions.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment reduces a driver’s reaction time, coordination, and judgment, significantly increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can make NYC roads slippery, reducing visibility and causing longer stopping times.
• Failure to Yield: In a busy city environment, failing to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or other drivers can lead to serious accidents.
• Pedestrian and Cyclist Interactions: NYC has a high volume of pedestrians and cyclists, and accidents can occur when drivers fail to observe crosswalks or give their right of way.
• Drowsy Driving: Fatigued drivers may have slower reaction times or even fall asleep at the wheel, increasing the risk of accidents.

By understanding these common causes, drivers can take steps to reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety in New York City.

What To Do After a Car Accident in NYC

The actions you take immediately following a car accident can significantly impact the success of your case. To protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome, follow these steps after a collision:

• Call 911: This is critical for ensuring your safety and creating a record of the accident. Police officers will generate a report, which can be valuable evidence later in your case.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor after an accident is important. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable, and a medical professional can document your condition.
• Exchange Information: Collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of everyone involved in the accident, including witnesses.
• Document the Scene: Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Contact an NYC Car Accident Attorney: Before speaking with insurance companies, it’s wise to consult with a car accident attorney. They can help protect your interests and ensure you don’t accept an unfair settlement.

Get the Help You Deserve After a Car Accident

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to take action. The team at Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and let an experienced NYC car accident attorney guide you through your case.

Car Accident Lawyer FAQs

What injuries qualify for a car accident claim?

Injuries that qualify include whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, internal injuries, soft tissue injuries, and severe lacerations.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in NYC?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally three years from the accident date. However, certain cases involving government entities may have shorter deadlines.

What compensation can I receive after a car accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future medical expenses related to your injuries.

Do I need an attorney to file a car accident claim?

While not mandatory, working with an attorney can greatly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. An attorney can handle the legal complexities, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

After a car accident, call 911, seek medical attention, exchange information with the other driver(s), document the accident scene with photos, and contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation.

What is the no-fault insurance system in New York?

New York’s no-fault insurance system means that your own insurance will cover certain expenses like medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, serious injuries may allow you to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.

What evidence is needed to prove my case?

Key evidence includes the police report, medical records, photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and any traffic camera footage. An attorney will help you gather and present this evidence to build a strong case.