Best Car Accident Lawyers in Binghamton, NY

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Binghamton, New York?

  The Binghamton Police Department can be reached at (607) 723-5321 for non-emergency matters.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Binghamton, New York?

  You can secure a copy of your crash report by dropping by the Binghamton Police Department at 38 Hawley St, Binghamton, NY 13901. You can also call them at (607) 723-5321 to order your document or fill out a request form on their website at http://www.binghamton-ny.gov/records-unit. An accident report normally costs between $6 and $20, depending on how you acquired it.

• How long do you have after a car accident in Binghamton to file an insurance claim?

  You have 30 days from the time of your Binghamton car accident to notify your insurance company and submit a claim in order to be eligible for no-fault coverage. For claims under other areas of your coverage, you may check your auto insurance policy for any deadlines. You typically have three years from the date of the collision to initiate a personal injury lawsuit if you make a claim against the responsible party. For minors, the deadline for submitting a claim is three years after they turn 18.

• How can you determine responsibility in a Binghamton car accident?

  Determining who was at fault in a car crash frequently requires a detailed investigation. To establish who is legally responsible for a collision, you can work with a qualified Binghamton car accident attorney who can assist you in gathering crucial evidence. These include witness statements, an accident report, cell phone records, analysis of damaged car parts, reports from an accident reconstruction expert, and photos or videos of the accident scene or the liable party disobeying traffic regulations.

• What kinds of severe injuries result from Binghamton car accidents?

  The majority of Binghamton car accident victims suffer from severe or permanently disabling injuries that make it impossible for them to work or go about their daily activities. Some of these severe injuries include amputation, dislocation of joints, permanent internal organ damage, severe burns, broken bones, and traumatic brain, neck, back, and spinal cord injuries.

• What types of compensation are you eligible for after a car accident in Binghamton?

  Once your PIP policy limits have been reached, New York law lets you seek additional compensation for losses caused by a car accident. In Binghamton, car accident victims frequently receive compensation for their medical bills, rehabilitation costs, projected future medical treatment costs, lost wages, emotional and physical suffering, decreased quality of life, scarring and disfigurement, and loss of consortium.

• How can an attorney assist you with your Binghamton car accident case?

  An experienced Binghamton car accident attorney can handle all the legal aspects of your claim, allowing you to concentrate on getting better. A legal team can perform a thorough investigation to identify all contributing factors to your accident, collect evidence that will support your claim, interact with insurance companies and other parties, negotiate with insurance providers to obtain the highest settlement possible, and represent you in court, if necessary.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.