Best Car Accident Lawyers in Huntington

FAQs

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

  855-969-4636 is the non-emergency hotline of the Huntington police department.

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

  Motor vehicle accident reports can be obtained from the Huntington Public Safety Office, located at 100 Main Street Huntington, NY 11743. Involved parties can also contact 631-351-3167 to request an accident report.

• What types of compensation are available to Huntington car crash victims?

  According to New York law, those hurt in vehicle accidents in Huntington are entitled to financial compensation for their medical expenses, including therapy and rehabilitation sessions, prescription medications, hospital transportation, and surgeries. Individuals are also eligible for non-economic losses like funeral or burial expenses and lost pay. Punitive damages, which in New York have no upper limits, are additional damages that a Huntington auto accident victim may be entitled to.

• What are the roads and intersections in Huntington that are prone to car accidents?

  The most hazardous streets in Huntington include Fulton Street and Route 109 Farmingdale, Middle Neck Road Great Neck Plaza, and Route 110 and New York Avenue Huntington Station. These are the places where car accidents frequently happen. Areas in Huntington that are prone to vehicle accidents include Sunrise Highway, which runs from Valley Stream to Freeport, Newbridge Road and Broadway in Hickville, Routes 25A and 112 in Upper Port Jefferson, and Brewster Street in Glen Cove.

• How is "duty of care" legally defined in Huntington?

  The duty of care is also known as the responsibility of Huntington drivers to drive safely, avoid collisions, and obey traffic rules. The goal of the duty of care is to safeguard passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians against fatalities and injuries brought on by carelessness. Drivers must not place others at undue risk of harm and must act responsibly. Despite this legal need to exercise caution, Huntington's roadways continue to see auto accidents.

• What is the cost of hiring a car accident lawyer in Huntington?

  According to Clio's Hourly Rate Statistics for Attorneys in 2022, the average hourly rate for Huntington car accident attorneys is $236. But, they often don't charge anything until an auto accident victim receives payment for their injuries. Huntington car crash lawyers can operate on a contingency fee basis, which means they are compensated out of the settlement received from the victim and they are not paid if their case is unsuccessful or before they begin reviewing cases.

• Who is liable for car crashes in Huntington?

  Depending on the circumstances of their case, Huntington accident victims may be able to hold a variety of parties accountable, such as reckless drivers and their employers, vehicle manufacturers, ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft, governments, and technicians. In contrast, New York is a no-fault insurance state, allowing accident victims to file claims for lost income and medical expenses regardless of who was to blame for the occurrence.

• 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.