Best Car Accident Lawyers in Syracuse

FAQs

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

  (315) 442-5111 is the non-emergency contact number for the Syracuse police station.

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

  You can secure a copy of your accident report in Syracuse by contacting (315) 442-5111 or going to the Syracuse Police Department at 511 S State St, Syracuse, NY 13202. You will be asked for information such as your name; your driver's license number; vehicle plate number; your mailing address, phone number, and email; and the time, date, and place of the collision. An accident report might cost anywhere from $6 to $20, depending on how you acquire it.

• How do you establish liability in a car accident case in Syracuse?

  You and your attorney should establish the following factors in order to demonstrate the liability of the other party:

  • The at-fault party owed you a duty of care. Drivers have a responsibility to obey traffic regulations and drive with precaution.
  • The responsible party breached the duty of care. This indicates that the other motorist violated safety laws by speeding, failing to signal a turn, or operating a vehicle while distracted.
  • The violation of the duty of care led to the accident that resulted in your injuries, as well as the accompanying costs and effects.

• What forms do you need to fill out after getting involved in a car accident in Syracuse?

  There are certain forms you must complete in Syracuse, regardless of whether you were involved in a catastrophic auto accident or a minor one. Depending on the specifics of your collision, you might need to fill out documents like the no-fault insurance benefits application, MV-104 form, the Notice and Proof of Claim for Disability Benefits, or the Notice and Proof of Claim for Disability Benefits by Unemployed Claimants. You can prepare these important papers with the assistance of an attorney.

• If you suffered injuries as a passenger in a car accident in Syracuse, are you eligible for no-fault insurance benefits?

  You are eligible for no-fault insurance benefits if you sustained injuries as a passenger in a car accident in Syracuse. These include financial support for lost wages, medical costs, and other expenses. Regardless of who was responsible for the collision, the insurance provider of the car you are riding in will cover your primary benefits. You must submit a no-fault application form no later than 30 days after the accident to the insurance company to receive the compensation you are entitled to.

• Where in Syracuse do car accidents happen most frequently?

  Most car crashes in Syracuse happen in busy locations like I-81 and I-481. Collisions also take place in suburban and residential areas, such as East Syracuse, Onodanga Hill, Lakeland, Mattydale, and Galeville. Additionally, the intersection of I-690 and I-81 in downtown Syracuse is plagued with gridlock traffic and catastrophic vehicle accidents. Erie Blvd and S. South Street are two other roads with a high accident rate.

• What kinds of restitution are you eligible to receive following a car accident in Syracuse?

  There are two types of restitution that you can claim following a car accident in Syracuse. Economic damages refer to the direct financial losses you sustain as a result of the collision. These include disability accommodations, property damage and vehicle repairs, lost wages and lost future earnings, and all previous and future medical care. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, make up for non-financial losses. They might include mental agony, permanent disability, amputation and disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.

• 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.