Accidents happen: Finding the right New York Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents happen almost every five second in the United States, and if you get involved in one in New York, you may be eligible to contact a specialized New York car accident lawyer.
The legal system, especially involving personal injury, is complex, and that makes contacting an attorney who is both licensed and well-versed in New York and federal laws.
There are plenty of New York car accident attorney's available for you to choose from, but it is important you do your homework before contacting the first one you see.
However, after an accident, there are a few steps you should take before contacting a lawyer, ones that will not only help you with insurance, but also may serve to help your claim later on:
- Call the police
- Exchange information with the other parties involved, including name, driver's license, insurance, policy number, address, telephone and any passengers
- Do not admit any responsibility, make any statements, or sign anything.
No-Fault Benefits
Regardless of fault, In New York, you are entitled to No-Fault benefits, paid by the insurance company of the car you were driving or riding in regardless of who is ultimately found to bear responsibility. This covers a number of things that are crucial in the early days and to recover from an accident, including medical expenses, prescriptions, lost wages and others up to $50,000. File your claim within 30 days from the time of the accident. Benefits are obtained through the New York Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corp
When to contact an New York Car Accident Attorney
Contact a New York car accident attorney as soon as possible if you feel you suffered a serious injury as the result of the negligence of others. The attorney can help you file the necessary insurance paperwork and begin to prepare legal actions to seek damages. If you plan to file suit, your New York car accident lawyer to and you will determine the total amount you may be eligible to seek. Strict medical conditions must be proven to pursue legal actions and your attorney will help you determine if you have a case.
How much will it cost?
- Contingency: If your case is won, the attorney receives a percentage of the settlement, usually 1/3. If they lose, they do not receive a fee. You may be required to pay costs, such as filing fees. In New York, fees for workman's compensation claims are tightly regulated, and are generally lower
- Hourly: This is usually higher or lower based on the experience of the attorney.
- Retainer: This involves the creation of an escrow account into which you pay in advance. Lawyers deduct from this account in accordance with their hourly rate.
