Best Car Accident Lawyers in Staten Island

FAQs

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

  You may dial 311 to access the non-emergency contact number of Staten Island's local police station.

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

  You can get a copy of your police report in State Island by requesting online at the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) website or via mail. However, if you want to request a copy in person at the FOIL Unit's office located at One Police Plaza, you need to schedule an appointment by calling (646) 610-5296. You can only request a copy of your police record at least 24 hours after you file a complaint.

• What are the leading reasons for car accidents on Staten Island?

  According to the data from the New York Police Department, several factors are considered to cause a car accident on Staten Island. Most crashes are caused by negligence in driving, such as speeding and aggressive behaviors, drunk driving, failure to follow traffic rules and regulations, and distracted driving. In some cases, defective roadways often cause collisions.

• What should you do if you are involved in a Staten Island car accident?

  If you get involved in a car accident in Staten Island, take these steps: call for medical help, report the accident to the police, document the site and take photos, collect witness information, and ask for legal assistance from an expert. Lastly, avoid admitting fault or signing anything without consulting a lawyer.

• What damages claims can you file in a car accident lawsuit in Staten Island?

  In Staten Island, car accident victims can file for economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages compensate for monetary losses, such as lost wages, physical therapy, and in-home care. On the other hand, non-economic damages are more difficult to assess as they pertain to non-financial aspects of the injury, such as emotional and physical suffering, disfigurement, and anxiety.

• Where do car accidents usually happen on Staten Island?

  Staten Island's most dangerous areas for car accidents include Hylan Boulevard, Nelson Avenue, Father Capodanno Boulevard, Sand Lane, Clove Road, Victory, and Arthur Kill Road. These roads have high-speed limits and pose a danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users, resulting in many car accidents and injuries.

• Who should you hold liable for your car accident injury in Staten Island?

  Staten Island is under New York State's no-fault insurance system. If you are involved in a car accident and suffer injuries, you must first turn to your insurance provider for compensation, regardless of who caused the accident. To help you receive the compensation you deserve, getting legal advice is a smart move.

• 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.