Car crashes occur every day in the U.S. In 2021, police reported over 6 million traffic crashes that injured nearly 2.5 million people. While auto accidents may be commonplace, they can still upend our lives when they happen to us. On top of addressing injuries to you and your loved ones, you may be overwhelmed with the stress of dealing with insurance plains, vehicle repairs, and potential legal issues. That’s why consulting with a car accident law firm can be invaluable. The team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz is dedicated to helping you through this challenging time and reducing the stress of a complicated legal system. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, manage all legal aspects of your case, and provide the support you need to focus on your recovery.
Immediate Steps After a Collision
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, there are immediate actions you can take to protect your well-being and legal rights.
First, ensure your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention right away is essential, as some injuries might not be obvious. Call 911 if anyone is injured, and wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Next, contact the police to report the accident. A police report is an important piece of documentation that can support your case if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Provide the officers with accurate information about the accident and request a copy of the police report for your records.
While waiting for the police, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the crash. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact details and ask for their account of what happened. Take notes about the accident, including the time, date, location, weather conditions, and any other relevant information.
Even if you received immediate medical attention at the scene, it’s crucial to see a doctor for a comprehensive examination as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but can have long-term effects. A prompt medical evaluation ensures that your doctor can identify and treat any injuries early. The evaluation also provides a clear record for future legal or insurance claims.
When to Consult a Car Accident Law Firm
After an auto crash, consulting a law firm specializing in car accident cases can help protect your legal rights. If you have experienced any of the following scenarios, we recommend reaching out to an experienced attorney to handle your case:
Serious injuries or fatalities: If an accident leads to significant injuries or death, it’s crucial to consult with a car accident attorney. Approximately 38% of accidents in New York City involved a fatality or injury in 2022, highlighting the frequency of serious crashes.
- Complex liability issues: When fault is not clear-cut or multiple parties are involved, legal experts can determine liability and help you secure fair compensation.
- Accidents caused by negligent behavior: Cases involving distracted driving, drunk driving, or speeding often require legal assistance to prove negligence and maximize compensation.
- Long-term or permanent disabilities: When injuries lead to lasting impairments such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or significant scarring and disfigurement, an attorney can help ensure you receive adequate compensation for ongoing medical care and lost quality of life.
- Insurance claim disputes: If an insurance company denies your claim, offers a low settlement, or acts in bad faith, a lawyer will advocate on your behalf and negotiate for fair compensation.
- Uninsured or underinsured motorists: These situations can complicate the process of obtaining compensation and may require legal expertise to explore all available options.
- Commercial vehicles: Crashes with trucks or other commercial vehicles often involve multiple parties and complex regulations, necessitating legal guidance.
- Significant property damage: When there’s substantial damage to your vehicle or other property, an attorney can help ensure you receive proper compensation for repairs or replacement.
Timing of Legal Consideration
After an accident, you don’t have much time to file your claim with your insurance company. In New York, you must file a no-fault application form with your provider within 30 days of the accident—regardless of who is at fault. This is a requirement under New York’s no-fault insurance law, which mandates that all drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. Promptly filing your insurance claim ensures you can access benefits, such as medical expenses and lost wages, without paying out of pocket.
For lawsuits, it’s important to be mindful of the statute of limitations. This refers to the time you have to begin legal proceedings after an event. In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident. However, the timeline is much shorter if the accident involves a government entity. In these cases, you only have 90 days to file a “notice of claim.”
We understand that these processes and deadlines can be overwhelming. Discussing your situation with an attorney can provide clarity. The attorneys at Shaevitz & Shaevitz can help you navigate the legal and insurance claims process effectively.
Hurt in a Car? Choose an Experienced Car Accident Law Firm
Knowing when to consult a car accident law firm is crucial, but knowing who to consult is equally important. Experience, reputation, and specialization make all the difference in navigating the aftermath of a collision. Clients trust our team at Shaevitz & Shaevitz because of our proven track record in car accident and personal injury cases.
Our dedicated attorneys have the expertise and commitment to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. When you consult Shaevitz & Shaevitz, you’re choosing a team that will fight for you and provide the support and guidance you need to focus on your recovery. Contact us today to arrange a free and confidential case consultation.
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