A Queens Car Wreck Lawyer Answers Your Common Questions

The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that motor vehicle accidents claimed over 40,000 lives in 2023. This alarming statistic reflects the critical need for car accident attorneys. In New York City, especially with the busy roads and constant traffic, car crashes are all too common. It is important to know what to do in the event of a crash, and that’s where a car wreck lawyer in Queens, NY, can really help. The attorneys at Shaevitz & Shaevitz have been handling car crashes for over 65 years. Trust our experienced attorneys to manage your car accident case and provide answers to your most pressing questions.

What Should I Do After a Car Wreck in Queens?

The immediate first step after a car crash is to call the police. They will call for any emergency services you may need, including an ambulance. Your health and safety should always come first.

If you’re able, we encourage you to take pictures of the scene and gather information, such as vehicle damage and injuries. If you can’t, a passenger or bystander may be able to help. Be sure to record injuries, exchange contact and insurance details, and document the accident to support your case. The information can be vital for proving fault.

Once you’ve received medical care, we encourage you to call a lawyer before your insurance company. It’s best not to speak with the insurance adjuster yourself, as they may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages. At Shaevitz & Shaevitz, we handle all communication with the insurance company to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.

How Can a Queens Car Wreck Lawyer Help Me?

A car wreck lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals involved in vehicle collisions. Lawyers are crucial in helping accident victims navigate the complex legal process of securing fair compensation.

One key benefit of hiring a lawyer is that they’ll handle your interactions with the insurance companies involved. Insurance adjusters work to minimize payouts, so anything you say could be used against you. A lawyer, however, works for your best interest and ensures you receive the compensation you deserve!

A car accident attorney also helps you file your claim. In New York, no-fault claims must be submitted within 30 days, regardless of who was at fault. Our experienced team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz will file the claim for you and ensure compliance with all legal requirements.

Contacting a car wreck lawyer after an accident is crucial, as proving who is at fault can be difficult. A skilled lawyer will provide specific guidance tailored to your case and help you receive a fair settlement. At Shaevitz & Shaevitz, we’ve secured over $500 million in verdicts and settlements, and we remain committed to pursuing justice for injured victims and their families.

Who Pays for My Auto Accident Damages in Queens?

New York State is a no-fault state, meaning all drivers must have at least $50,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) as part of their auto insurance policy. Your PIP then provides up to $50,000 in benefits after a car crash, covering initial medical expenses, lost wages, and hospital bills, regardless of fault. We’ll assist you in filing your no-fault claim within 30 days of the accident to ensure you qualify for these benefits.

Scenarios Based on Fault in a Car Wreck

Let’s consider some scenarios based on fault. Here is a breakdown of how compensation for a car wreck works in New York State.

If you are determined 100% at fault:

• Your no-fault benefits will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to the coverage limit.
• You cannot sue the other driver for additional damages.
• You may be held responsible for the other driver’s property damage.

50% at fault:

• Your PIP insurance still covers your initial medical expenses and lost wages up to the coverage limit, even if you are partially at fault.
• If your injuries meet the “serious injury threshold” (see below), you can pursue legal action against the other driver. Your compensation, however, will be reduced by your percentage of fault—in this case, 50%.

0% at fault:

• Your no-fault benefits cover your initial medical expenses and lost wages, as usual.
• If your injuries meet the “serious injury threshold,” you can sue the driver found at fault for additional compensation without reduction, as you have been cleared of any negligence.

Serious Injury Threshold

To file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional compensation, your injuries must meet New York’s “serious injury threshold.”

The Serious Injury Threshold includes:

• Death
• Significant disfigurement
• Dismemberment
• Loss of a fetus
• Loss of an organ, function, or system permanently
• Limitation in the use of an organ or body part permanently
• Significant restriction in the use of a body function or system
• Medically diagnosed injury or impairment that prevents you from doing what’s considered a person’s “usual” daily activities for 90 days or more during the 180 days immediately following the accident

Contact a Qualified Car Wreck Lawyer in Queens Today

After a car wreck in Queens, you may find yourself overwhelmed with questions and uncertainty about your legal rights and options. A dedicated Queens car wreck lawyer can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. At Shaevitz & Shaevitz, we understand the complexities of car accident cases and are here to address your concerns. Whether you’re unsure about the steps to take following an accident or how to pursue compensation for your injuries, our experienced team is ready to help. Schedule a free consultation with Shaevitz & Shaevitz today to see how we can assist with your case and provide the answers you need.

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