Best Car Accident Lawyers in Brooklyn, NY

FAQs

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

  311 is the non-emergency contact number of the Brooklyn local police station.

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

  You can request a copy of the report at the precinct where the collision occurred during the first 30 days from the date of accident report was filed. Download two copies of the accident report (Request for Copy of Collision Record) and either mail them to the precinct of the incident or drop them off in person at the precinct. You can request a police report online using the Collision Report Retrieval Portal. It will take seven business days from the date of the incident to be accessible on this portal.

• What are the most dangerous intersections for motorists in Brooklyn?

  The most deadly intersections in Brooklyn are Tillary Street and Flatbush Avenue, with Atlantic Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. These also include Jay Street and Myrtle Avenue, Erskine Street and Seaview Avenue, Atlantic Avenue and Conduit Boulevard, Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard, Jay Street and Tillary Street, and Graham Avenue and Grand Street. Location, poor signage, traffic volume, and increased pedestrian traffic play a role in more car accidents in some Brooklyn areas than others.

• How common are car accidents in Brooklyn, and what is the frequent factor?

  There were almost 2,500 motor vehicle incidents in Brooklyn alone, resulting in around 1000 injuries and four deaths. According to recently released data, a factor in these deadly incidents is the red-light running violations, which increased by 50% in the second half of 2021 and were linked to 23 traffic deaths in New York City. As a result, February 2022 was the deadliest month for road deaths since 2008.

• What are the legal rights of families who have lost loved ones in a deadly car accident in Brooklyn?

  Under New York state law, the decedent's spouse, children and parents, and the personal representative of the decedent's estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Brooklyn. This claim tries to compensate family members for the losses caused by the death of a loved one. Families may also submit a survivorship claim for medical care for the victim's conscious pain and suffering from the injury until passing.

• How does New York's no-fault state law apply to car accidents in Brooklyn?

  New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means that most accident victims must seek compensation from their insurance carrier. Brooklyn drivers must have at least $50,000 in PIP, or personal injury protection, coverage. As a result, if drivers or their passengers are injured, the PIP policy may cover up to $50,000 for each person. Victims can recover from the other party's insurance and receive the damages faster.

• What are the frequent damages in a car accident in Brooklyn?

  In car accidents in Brooklyn, there are two primary categories of financial damages. Property damage, current and future medical expenses, lost wages from missed work, and long-term loss of future earnings are considered economic damages which are payments made to compensate the victim for their direct losses. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of ability to enjoy life, and post-traumatic stress disorder, which have intangible effects and are the most difficult for victims.

• 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.