Best Car Accident Lawyers in Mount Vernon

FAQs

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

  The Mount Vernon Police Department's non-emergency number is (914) 665-2500.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your accident report in person at the Mount Vernon Police Department, located at 2 Roosevelt Square North. A police report costs between $6 and $20, depending on how you receive it. You are required to supply information such as the report number, your name, driver's license number, car plate number, the date/time of the accident, the location, who was involved, your mailing address, phone number, and email address.

• What if the driver who hit you in Mount Vernon has no insurance?

  If you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may be able to sue for damages. Your insurer may compensate you for your losses. You may also file a lawsuit with the assistance of a car accident attorney in Mount Vernon. All New York drivers are required by law to carry insurance before operating a motor vehicle. Still, uninsured motorists continue to take to the roadways, occasionally causing catastrophic collisions.

• What are the most common causes of automobile collisions in Mount Vernon?

  Common causes of auto accidents in Mount Vernon are speeding, drunk driving, failure to yield, and following too closely. According to the New York City Police Department, at least thirteen car accidents every day are attributed to speeding. Based on a report from the Westchester Governor, one-third of New York's fatalities are caused by intoxicated drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, 18,000 recorded auto accidents were due to failure to yield. Following too closely, on the other hand, causes over 12 percent of car accidents.

• Who is at fault in a parking lot car accident in Mount Vernon?

  Since New York is a no-fault insurance state, insured people are reimbursed for damages regardless of responsibility. Accidents in parking lots, regardless of who was at fault or not, are covered by insurance in Mount Vernon, which also pays for lost wages and other expenses. The minimum liability insurance required by New York for registered vehicles is $25,000 to $50,000 per injury, $50,000 to $100,000 per death, and $10,000 per accident for property damage. The no-fault system also has stringent filing and submission deadlines and complicated requirements.

• What is Mount Vernon's statute of limitations for car accidents?

  In New York, the statute of limitations for the majority of negligence cases is three years. Nevertheless, it may be significantly shorter in certain circumstances, particularly if the alleged wrongdoer is a municipality or public agency. If you can submit a third-party claim for your auto accident case in Mount Vernon, you must do so within the three-year statute of limitations. If a victim fails to register a claim within this period, they will likely be unable to initiate a lawsuit or obtain compensation for their losses.

• Where in Mount Vernon do car accidents usually happen?

  According to recent reports, the most dangerous intersections, streets, and highways for motorists where accidents occur in Mount Vernon include the N Terrace Avenue and W Grand Street intersection, the SR-907k Cross County Parkway, and the SR-22. Motorists are advised to take extra caution when traversing these roads.

• 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.