Navigating Car Accident Challenges in Brooklyn: Essential Information

What should I do (and NOT DO) if I get in a car accident in Brooklyn?

First and foremost, after a car accident, it's important to stay safe. Request immediate medical attention if necessary and notify law enforcement about the crash. The police can help you write an official report and exchange driver information. If possible, collect photo evidence of the point of contact, road conditions, and traffic signs, as well as witness statements and other relevant documents. Make sure to exchange insurance information with the other parties involved. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault for the accident, as well as giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters. Seek medical attention promptly. Consider reaching out to a Brooklyn car accident lawyer who has handled a similar personal injury case.

How much personal injury claim or maximum compensation can I receive as a car accident victim?

It is common for an injury victim to feel compelled to accept the initial settlement offered by the insurance company, even though it is often an unwise decision. Determining the true value of your personal injury case can be challenging. A personalized strategy can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve as the accident victim. Attorneys may pursue damages for: medical costs, income loss, anticipated medical care, reduced earning capacity, rehabilitation and other healthcare requirements, mental anguish, psychological trauma, decreased quality of life, bereavement damages in wrongful death cases, personal or property damage, and more.

What is the average settlement for a car accident in Brooklyn?

It's not easy to determine the average settlement amount for a car accident in Brooklyn. That's because settlement information is often kept private. Even when it's public, amounts tend to vary widely according to the unique nature of each accident.

It can be tough to put a price on a horrible moment. An experienced car accident attorney can help you value your car accident case based on your medical expenses, the severity of injuries, the presence of traffic violations, and more.

Is hiring a car accident lawyer in Brooklyn necessary?

It's completely up to you whether you choose to hire a car accident lawyer in Brooklyn. But it's worth noting that accidents can result in expenses, injuries, and paperwork that can be tough to manage alone. If that's the case for you, a car accident lawyer can help you work through the claims process and secure as much support as possible.

So when should I hire a lawyer?

Act promptly to protect your rights. In states with no-fault insurance laws like New York, all drivers are required to carry their own car insurance coverage. The first step is to file a claim with your own insurance company to seek fair compensation for damages. However, insurance companies may attempt to shift some of the blame to you to reduce their payout. In this scenario, your settlement may be decreased proportionally. Each responsible party can also be held accountable for their share of the fault based on the comparative fault rules. Navigating these complex rules can be challenging. To receive assistance, consider contacting a law firm for a qualified Brooklyn personal injury lawyer.

How much does a Brooklyn car accident attorney cost?

Personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency basis, meaning you'll only pay if you receive compensation. For cases that settle prior to a lawsuit being filed, lawyers generally charge a “pre-suit” fee of 33% of the final settlement amount. Cases involving lawsuits generally carry a “post-suit” fee of 40%.

It's important to discuss fees with your attorney to understand how they will be handled in your case.

What does the process of working with a car accident lawyer look like?

The process typically starts with a consultation to discuss your case. If your case moves forward, your legal team will start collecting documents and investigating.

Once the medical bills are in, your lawyers will assemble your claim and submit it to the insurance company. Then, they'll negotiate until you're satisfied with the offer. Most cases settle, but if an agreement is not reached, your lawyer may file a lawsuit on your behalf.

How long will it take to investigate a car accident claim in Brooklyn?

The average time it takes for personal injury cases to settle in Brooklyn is 1.5 years, but this can vary based on several factors—including the insurance companies involved, the details of your car accident, and the possibility of a lawsuit.

Some cases settle within a year, while others take multiple years to resolve. No matter what, your Brooklyn personal injury lawyer will start right away to get your case moving in the right direction.

What is the time limit for filing an auto accident claim?

In New York, the limit is three years for car accidents. However, it is advisable to take prompt action as insurance companies have their own deadlines for claim filing, which may differ from one policy to another. If a government entity is found responsible for the auto accident, the time limit to provide notice of your intent to seek a personal injury claim is only 90 days. Failing to meet these deadlines may lead to forfeiture of your entitlement to receive compensation for the damages and injuries you have incurred.

What happens once my Brooklyn car accident case is settled?

Once your case is settled, any outstanding fees—for your lawyers, your medical care, loans, and beyond—will be deducted from the gross (or total) amount. You'll then receive everything else. After that, your future is in your hands—the way it should be.