Car Accident FAQ Brooklyn
Get answers to car accident questions from Alexander Karasik in Brooklyn. Learn about fault, insurance, uninsured drivers, settlements, and your rights.
Immediate Steps After an Accident
Q:
what should i do immediately after a car accident?
A:
Call a good car accident lawyer.
Q:
should i see a doctor after a car accident if i feel fine?
A:
Yes, oftentimes injuries do not manifest themselves right after an accident. It is important to seek medical attention immediately after the accident.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
Q:
do i need a lawyer for a car accident or can i handle the insurance claim myself?
A:
Unless your claim only involves property damage, you always need a good lawyer on your side who will maximize your recovery.
Proving Fault
Q:
how do i prove who was at fault for the car accident?
A:
Leave it to your lawyer to prove who caused the accident.
Q:
can i still recover damages if i was partially at fault for the car accident?
A:
Yes, In New York, there are laws governing “contributory negligence” which means the proportion of negligence is apportioned according to circumstances. This means that if you are partially negligent, you can still recover damages in an accident.
Uninsured & Hit-and-Run Drivers
Q:
what if the other driver is uninsured or flees the scene?
A:
There may still be insurance coverage available for this type of accident. If you are injured, please contact an attorney.
Dealing With Insurance
Q:
should i accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
A:
No. Never negotiate any settlements with any insurance company. Avoid talking to them altogether and leave this task for experienced attorneys.
Filing Deadlines
Q:
how long do i have to file a car accident lawsuit in new york?
A:
Generally, it is 3 years unless the accident involves a city bus or other NYC vehicle, in which case you have a shorter amount of time to file.
Cost & Fees
Q:
how much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
A:
In New York and New Jersey, personal injury attorneys do not charge fees for legal work to clients but work on contingency wherein they take a percentage from the recovery.