New York sees its fair share of car accidents, and Buffalo is no exception. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, achieving your most complete recovery should be your primary concern, and that involves obtaining money damages that covers your injuries. Fortunately, an experienced Buffalo car accident attorney can help.
New York’s No-Fault Insurance System
Motorists in New York must carry no-fault car insurance, and when they’re injured in car accidents, they turn to their own policies to cover their losses. The matter of fault isn’t taken into consideration, which expedites the claims process but leaves drivers less well covered in the sense that their physical and emotional pain and suffering – or non-economic losses – aren’t considered.
Serious Injuries
Only if you suffer an injury that is classified as serious can you pursue a car accident claim against the at-fault driver. Specific injuries include:
- Dismemberment
- The loss of a fetus
- A broken or fractured bone
- A permanent limitation regarding a bodily organ, function, or system
- Serious disfigurement
The Involved Insurance Company
It’s important to recognize that the insurance company handling your claim – whether it’s a no-fault claim or is filed against the negligent driver – is driven by profits. This means it will do what it can to limit your compensation, and this is why you should have a knowledgeable car accident attorney in your corner.
Driver Negligence
Car accidents are often the result of negligence on the part of the other driver, including the following common forms:
- Speeding and other forms of aggressive driving
- Distraction
- Exhaustion
- Failure to follow the rules of the road
- Impairment
If you suffered serious injuries as a direct result of the other driver’s negligence, the legal counsel of a dedicated car accident attorney can help to ensure you receive the just compensation you need.
FAQs
Is there a time limit for filing?
In New York, you have only three years to file a lawsuit against a negligent driver. Gathering the necessary evidence and building a strong case can take a considerable amount of time, which makes consulting with a practiced car accident attorney as quickly as possible an excellent idea.
How can I afford an attorney?
While your medical bills soar and your wages dwindle, you may wonder how you can possibly take on the additional expense of a car accident attorney. The good news is that most car accident attorneys get paid a prearranged percentage of the total compensation until after the claim is successfully resolved.
What happens if I’m also at fault?
In New York, you can file a car accident claim against another driver even if you share responsibility for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault you bear.
An Experienced Buffalo Car Accident Attorney Can Help
The well-respected Buffalo car accident attorneys at Steve Foley Law Firm are well-positioned to skillfully advocate for your rights and for your rightful compensation. We encourage you to reach out and contact us online or call us at 716-249-2222 for more information about what we can do to help you today.