Staten Island Car Accident FAQ

No one is ever prepared to be a victim of a car crash. If the unexpected happens what should you do? Getting into an accident is always emotionally traumatic, and physical injuries can range from minimal to life-altering.

Whether this is your first or you have been the victim of multiple accidents, each event is different, and you may not know where to turn. Your best chance at obtaining the compensation you deserve is to connect with a trusted auto accident attorney. The professionals at Kuharski, Levitz & Giovinazzo, Esq. have extensive experience in personal injury law.

I’ve been in an accident. What should I do now?

If you or a loved one have been in an accident, the first step is to take care of yourself. Seek urgent medical attention if needed and if you are able to walk away from your accident always get a physical evaluation as soon as you are able. Injuries that are not immediately visible such as whiplash, a concussion, or trauma may evolve later.

Do I have to report my accident to the police?

All accidents of concern should be reported to the police. his police report will be helpful in your claim. If you are able to, document the event immediately.

Get the name, contact, and insurance of the other driver, name, and number of witnesses, and take as many photographs as you are able. The lighting, weather, and conditions of the road will not be the same as time passes.

How long do I have to report my accident to my insurance?

Each state has different rules with regard to the timeframe that you are allowed to report a motor vehicle accident to your car insurance. In New York, you have ten days after the accident to notify your vehicle’s coverage.

All drivers involved are held to this requirement. With focused personal injury representation, your attorney will know exactly what to present to the insurance.

What do I do if the at-fault party’s insurer contacts me?

In most scenarios, the at-fault party’s insurance company will contact you and offer you a settlement. They typically do this quickly and for their benefit. You may have not had the opportunity to calculate all of the damages you have incurred.

Don’t risk agreeing to an amount that does not cover the entirety of the damages suffered by you from their negligent driver. Hospital bills, property damage, and time lost from work are more easily calculated but don’t neglect to consider your current emotional suffering and future health care concerns that you may have. The right attorney will educate you on all you are entitled to.

What are economic and non-economic damages?

Economic damages are easily calculable. They include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. It is imperative that all receipts and prior pay stubs are retained in order to calculate the sum of the financial hardship you have incurred.

Non-economic damages are more difficult to tally, which is where a strong legal defense can come to your rescue. These injuries are subjective and do not have a receipt attached, but they are just as important. Receiving compensation for things such as pain and suffering, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment in life, disfigurement, and mental anguish is your right.

How long do I have to submit a personal injury claim?

Each state has a statute of limitations when it comes to filing a personal injury claim. In Staten Island, you generally have three years from the time of the accident to file a suit. Time limits differ from state to state and are put in place to ensure evidence is current and the courtrooms don’t get behind processing old cases.

What if I’m partly at fault for my injuries?

First, don’t admit fault to the insurance company, which can use your statements against you. Your lawyer can gather evidence that you’re not at fault, so you don’t suffer penalties for your claim. If you’re found at fault for part of the accident, your claim may be reduced by the amount of fault you’re accused of.

Get Answers from a Staten Island Car Accident Attorney

The questions above only touch on some of the concerns you may have due to injuries from a motor vehicle accident. If you have suffered physical and emotional trauma due to the negligent driving of another, your best chance at a favorable outcome is to contact an experienced lawyer with extensive knowledge of Staten Island personal injury law.