While many car accidents are simple fender-benders resulting in minimal damage, automobile accidents remaiIn New York, a motor vehicle accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. The aftermath often involves painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income, all while you navigate a confusing legal and insurance process. At Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C., our experienced New York motor vehicle accident attorneys are here to protect your rights, handle the complexities, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. We are your dedicated advocates, ensuring you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal battle.
Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle
Our firm has extensive experience representing victims in all types of motor vehicle accidents, regardless of the vehicle involved. We understand the specific laws and liabilities that apply to each type of incident.
- Car Accidents: From fender-benders to catastrophic collisions, we handle cases involving distracted driving, speeding, and other forms of negligence.
- Truck Accidents: These cases are often more complex due to federal regulations and the severe injuries they cause. We investigate driver fatigue, improper loading, and company negligence.
- Motorcycle Accidents: We represent injured riders, fighting to overcome the bias that often unfairly places blame on motorcyclists.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: We protect the rights of those on foot or on a bike who are injured by negligent drivers in our busy city streets.
Key Steps to Take After an Accident
Your actions immediately following an accident can have a significant impact on your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. See a doctor right away, even if your injuries seem minor. This creates a critical medical record of your condition.
- Document the Scene: If you can safely do so, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Gather Information: Collect the other driver’s contact and insurance information. Do not admit fault or apologize.
- Report the Accident: File a police report. In New York, you must file a report for any accident that causes injury or damage over $1,000.
Understanding Negligence and Liability in New York
New York is a “no-fault” state, which means your own insurance company typically covers your initial medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if your injuries are severe, you can step outside of the no-fault system and file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
To win your case, our motor vehicle accident attorneys must prove the other driver was negligent. This means proving they failed to act with a reasonable level of care, such as:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving (texting while driving)
- Disobeying traffic laws
Damages You Can Recover
The compensation you can recover in a motor vehicle accident lawsuit is broken down into two main categories:
- Economic Damages: These are the quantifiable, out-of-pocket costs of the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and future medical expenses.
- Non-Economic Damages: These are the intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, don’t wait. Contact our attorneys at Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C., for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case.
Contact Us
Please call us for a free consultation, and we will be happy to discuss any potential case with you.
Taking this step is crucial because the time you have to initiate legal action is limited. Acting promptly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
With our expert guidance, you’ll be able to navigate the complexities of your situation and avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your right to compensation. Our experienced team is here to ensure your rights are protected and to help you make informed decisions moving forward.