As winter comes to a close, many find themselves looking forward to summer. Warmer weather and trips to the beach are beckoning, and thousands of people in New York are heeding their call. One such summer activity is a road trip! Whether it’s a family road trip to Yellowstone or to Miami with your friends, long drives are a common summer pastime. Unfortunately, these carpools across the country aren’t immune to automobile accidents. If you are in a car accident in New York City—regardless of where you’re from—you should contact local legal representation. Shaevitz & Shaevitz in Queens, NY, are car accident lawyers who dedicate their time and expertise to acquiring fair compensation for clients like you.
Common Causes for Accidents on a Road Trip
In 2022, there were over 42,000 reported deaths from motor vehicle accidents in the US. While this doesn’t account for non-fatal car accidents, it demonstrates that accidents are unfortunately common. When on the road for hours on end, the threat of a crash only increases.
There are several potential causes of car accidents, including:
- Distracted driving: Taking your eyes off the road is always a risk, whether it’s a glance away or a full minute. Looking at your phone, messing with the GPS, changing the music, and even eating while driving can be incredibly dangerous.
- Drunk driving: Driving under the influence is always a recipe for disaster. Not only will you lose your license, but you run a serious risk of harming yourself and others.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive driving, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes all classify as reckless driving. These behaviors may become more likely the longer you drive, as discomfort and irritation play a large role in reckless driving.
- Drowsy driving: When on a road trip, it’s important to switch off driving responsibilities when possible. If it’s not possible, you should occasionally stop to rest, sleep, and eat. The longer you drive without a break, the more likely you are to fall asleep behind the wheel. This is incredibly dangerous and, unfortunately, common during long car rides.
When on a road trip, you should always practice good driving habits. In some cases, however, you can do everything right and still end up in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence.
Why Should You Contact Accident Lawyers in Queens, NY?
New York State is a comparative negligence state. This means multiple parties can be partially at fault in an accident and still be eligible for compensation!
In Queens, NY, we see tourists every day. People from all over the world come to New York City, including those on road trips. If you are in an automobile accident in New York, it’s important you contact a New York attorney.
Every state has its own local laws, and some attorneys may only be able to practice in certain states. Finding a New York lawyer like those at Shaevitz & Shaevitz is essential to your case as we have intimate knowledge of New York law.
Once you and your loved ones are safe and treated for any injuries, call an attorney. As your legal counsel, we offer expert advice and represent you in court or settlement negotiations. Gathering evidence like witness statements and police reports is a crucial part of our job, as well as contacting insurance providers for you.
It’s important to note that even if you are not from New York State, you may be eligible for no-fault benefits if your insurance company is authorized to do business in New York. No-fault benefits cover expenses like medical, hospital, and therapeutic care. However, you must file within 30 days of the accident, which we will assist you with. If your insurance company is not authorized in New York, you will not qualify for New York’s no-fault benefits and instead must rely on your insurance policy’s rules.
If your injuries surpass the serious injury threshold, you may be entitled to compensation for additional damages. This involves a separate lawsuit that we will help you file.
Let Shaevitz & Shaevitz, Car Accident Lawyers in Queens, NY, Handle Your Case
If your road trip culminates in a car accident in New York City, contact Shaevitz & Shaevitz. As car accident lawyers in Queens, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you with your case! We will gather evidence, determine your eligibility for no-fault benefits if you’re from out of state, and represent your case to earn fair compensation.
Book a no-obligation free consultation today to determine how much your case may be worth!
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