Unfortunately, accidents happen daily in New York City and Long Island. Whether it’s a car crash on the busy streets of Manhattan, a slip and fall in a crowded Long Island shopping mall, or a workplace injury at one of the many construction sites throughout the area, unexpected incidents are commonplace. The hustle and bustle of city life and densely populated areas often lead to a higher risk of accidents. These incidents can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for victims and their families. Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but understanding your rights and knowing the steps to take can make a significant difference in your recovery and compensation. If you were injured, we recommend consulting with an experienced Queens personal injury attorney who can help provide clarity and direction during this stressful time. Keep reading for some of our expert tips.
6 Tips From an Experienced Queens Personal Injury Attorney
Accidents are overwhelming, but when negligence causes injury, the situation can become even more distressing. At Shaevitz & Shaevitz, our goal is to help you secure the compensation you deserve. With over 65 years of experience in personal injury law and a vast network of resources, we are committed to supporting you through this challenging time.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After an accident, you just want the ordeal to be over. This may lead you to avoid medical care, especially if you think the injuries you sustained were minor. However, seeking immediate medical care is crucial. First and foremost, you may be unaware of the full extent of your injuries, and a medical provider can assess and diagnose conditions that may not be immediately apparent. Second, prompt medical assessment and records of your injuries serve as key evidence in your case.
Additionally, following your doctor’s advice and adhering to your treatment plan shows that you are taking your recovery seriously. This can prevent the defense from claiming you failed to properly address and reduce your injury.
2. Document Everything and Preserve Evidence
Keep detailed records of your accident, injuries, medical treatments, and communication with insurance companies. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. You should also save any physical evidence related to the accident, such as damaged clothing or vehicle parts. This concrete evidence can impact the outcome of your personal injury case as it can establish liability, prove the extent of your injuries, and demonstrate the accuracy of your claims.
3. Report the Incident
File a report with the appropriate authorities, such as the police for a traffic accident or a property manager for slip and fall accidents. Be sure to obtain a copy of the report for your records.
4. Keep a Journal
Maintain a daily journal documenting your physical pain, emotional distress, and how your injuries affect your daily life. Your entries can help convey the impact of your injuries on your quality of life.
5. Limit Communication and Avoid Social Media
Be cautious about what you say to insurance adjusters and other parties involved in the accident. Insurance companies do not have your best interest in mind and can use your statements against you. Seeking an attorney as soon as possible is a valuable step, as they can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring no misstatements are made.
Additionally, be mindful about what you post on social media. Refrain from posting about your accident or injuries since even seemingly innocent updates can be misconstrued and used to undermine your claim.
6. Retain an Experienced Queens Personal Injury Attorney
It’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible to understand your rights and options. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is generally 3 years from the day the injury occurred. However, there are various exceptions. For example, you have 2 years to file a wrongful death claim and just 90 days to file a suit against a city or government entity in New York, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). These nuances, intricacies, and exceptions can be difficult to understand, which is why seeking legal help is key.
An experienced Queens personal injury attorney can assist you throughout the legal process, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for you in court to help you get the maximum compensation possible for your claim.
Why Choose Shaevitz & Shaevitz?
The attorneys at Shaevitz & Shaevitz are ready to fight for you. Here’s why so many injured New Yorkers choose us:
- We don’t settle for lowball offers. Insurance companies want to minimize their payouts, offering settlements that are less than what you deserve. We will aggressively negotiate for you to ensure you receive fair and just compensation.
- Our team has over 65 years of experience. We have a deep understanding of personal injury law and the legal system, which helps us achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
- We get results! Having recovered over $500 million in verdicts and settlements, you can trust our team to get you the compensation you deserve.
- We treat you like family. We understand the emotional and physical toll that an injury can take. Our team will prioritize your well-being and treat you with the care and respect you deserve.
- Your consultation is free, and you don’t pay unless we win. We work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. We also offer free case consultations so that you can get expert guidance without additional financial strain.
Consult a Top-Rated Queens Personal Injury Attorney
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, you deserve justice. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. The experienced legal team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz can build a strong case and maximize your compensation. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the support you need. If you’re in need of a trusted Queens personal injury attorney, we can help. Contact Shaevitz & Shaevitz today to arrange a free case consultation.
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