Car accidents are a serious event that can cause significant physical, emotional & financial damages. They can also disrupt a victim’s normal life and livelihood. These losses include property damage, medical expenses, loss of income resulting from missed work, and the cost of replacing or repairing their vehicle. Fortunately, New York law provides for recovery of these monetary losses through insurance claims and civil lawsuits. However, navigating the complex legal landscape of insurance and car accident liability laws can be challenging when an injured person is focused on recovery. A qualified Accident injury lawyer can help.
The at-fault party’s insurance company is a profit-oriented enterprise with experienced adjusters and lawyers who represent their interests, which do not necessarily align with those of the injured plaintiff. A skilled New York car accident lawyer can provide the necessary legal expertise to counter these efforts and negotiate a fair settlement on behalf of the victim. If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, the lawyer will be prepared to file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party.
One of the most important roles a car accident lawyer can play is to help their clients document their injuries and treatment and quantify the losses they have suffered. This process can involve obtaining and reviewing medical records, conducting expert witness testimony, and analyzing police and crash reports. It is crucial that this information be presented accurately and thoroughly in order to receive full compensation for a client’s losses.
A qualified accident injury lawyer will also know how to evaluate and compare the worth of a settlement offer from an insurance company to what they would be able to recover in a court judgment. An attorney can also ensure that a client’s claim is filed within the applicable statute of limitations to avoid losing the right to recovery.
Accidents involving commercial vehicles such as trucks require an even higher level of experience and knowledge as they often involve issues like federal trucking regulations and corporate insurance providers. A lawyer who specializes in trucking accidents can help these victims obtain the maximum amount of compensation allowed under New York law.
Many drivers who are involved in crashes fail to carry adequate insurance coverage. When a car accident occurs due to the negligence of an uninsured or underinsured driver, the victim may be able to recover through their own auto insurance policy. This type of recovery is called uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and is governed by unique, technical laws. An experienced car accident lawyer can explain these laws and help a client protect their rights.