Being involved in a car accident in New York is frightening; being seriously injured can be life-altering. While motor vehicle accidents are governed by the state’s no-fault insurance system, obtaining just compensation requires having an aggressive attorney.
At Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C., we provide powerful representation to car accident victims and their families. We have the skills and experience to make sure your insurance company pays the full value of your claim. If you have sustained a serious injury, our trial lawyers are well-prepared to litigate.
Above all, we will fight to help you obtain the compensation you deserve, in or out of the courtroom. We offer free consultations and there is never a fee until we recover for you. Contact our Garden City office now to discuss your case with an experienced car accident lawyer.
The Experienced Choice in Any New York Car Accident
The term “car accident” is misleading because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that most accidents are the result of driver errors, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI)
- Disobeying traffic signals
- Driver fatigue
- Improper turning/Unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating
- Reckless driving
At the same time, car accidents can also be caused by road defects, faulty traffic signals, and inoperable street lights in which case a personal injury lawsuit can be filed against the government agency responsible for road and highway maintenance. Similarly, mechanical defects often contribute to collisions, in which case the manufacturer may be held liable through a product liability lawsuit.
Regardless of the cause of your car accident, trust Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C. to handle all the details of your claim so you can focus on recovering. We know how to fight back against insurers, will demand full payment of your claim, and are always ready to litigate to achieve the best possible outcome.
Why You Need a Nassau & Queens Car Accident Attorney
Car accident claims generally fall under the state’s no-fault insurance system. This means that you must file a claim with your own insurance carrier to obtain compensation for lost wages and medical expenses, regardless of which driver is at fault for the accident. A no-fault claim must be filed within 30 days of the accident.
While insurance companies have an obligation to honor the terms of auto insurance policies, which are considered contracts, insurers have an unfair advantage over injury victims and often delay or deny claims. Our car accident attorneys have the skills and experience to level the playing field and will fight to obtain the full value of your claim.
Can I file a car accident lawsuit in New York?
Under the state’s no-fault law, you can only file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident if you have (1) sustained a serious injury or (2) incurred financial losses greater than $50,000.
The law defines a serious injury as one that causes:
- Death
- Dismemberment
- Significant disfigurement
- Fracture
- Loss of a fetus
- Permanent limitation of use of a body organ or part
- Significant limitation of use of a body function or system
- Injury preventing you from performing for 90 days in the first 180 days immediately after the accident
Ultimately it takes a skilled car accident attorney to show that your injury meets the serious injury threshold and get you the compensation you need and deserve.
How Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C. Can Help With Your Nassau or Queens Claim
Dealing with insurance companies and navigating the legal system is daunting when you’ve been injured in a car accident. Let our attorneys handle all the details of your claim, including:
- Conducting a thorough investigation
- Handling all communications with the insurance company and/or opposing counsel
- Collecting medical evidence
- Demonstrating the other driver’s negligence
- Negotiating a fair and reasonable settlement
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary
We understand the physical and financial challenges facing you and will fight to win you compensation that considers all your future medical and financial needs.
If you have tragically lost a loved one in a car accident, our wrongful death attorneys can help you obtain compensation for final medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and loss of financial and emotional support. At Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C., we have a proven history of achieving significant settlements and jury awards for car accident victims and their families. When you become our client, you will have comfort knowing that our dedicated attorneys are at your side.
What To Do After A Car Accident in New York
After a car accident, it is wise to call the police immediately and seek medical treatment when injured. Some injuries may not surface for hours, days, or even weeks. The reports of first responders (e.g. police, EMTs) will serve as valuable evidence in your claim. Delaying medical treatment may worsen any injuries and adversely impact your case.
If possible, collect the names and contact information of the other driver and any witnesses, and take pictures of the accident scene, the damage to the vehicles, and your injuries. If you are not able to do so, ask someone for help.
Shortly after the accident, a claims adjuster from the insurance company may contact you. It is not required for you to speak with the other party’s insurance company directly after an accident. Before you speak with the insurer or sign any papers, it is important to consult with a skilled car accident attorney. Our car accident attorneys know how to protect your rights and will make sure you are treated fairly. Contact legal counsel first before speaking with the other party’s insurance company.
Contact Our Experienced Nassau County & Queens Car Accident Attorney
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, turn to Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C. Our personal injury attorneys have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of the injured and a track record of achieving positive outcomes through negotiation and litigation. Contact our office today so we start working on your claim. ¡Hablamos Español!
Bornstein & Emanuel, P.C. handles New York car accident cases in Nassau County, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan from their office in Garden City.