Long Island Car Accident Lawyer
Advocating for Nassau County Car Accident Victims
No matter the severity, experiencing a car accident in Nassau County, New York, is a highly challenging time for anyone. Let the skilled Long Island car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C provide the legal counsel you need to receive the total and fair compensation you are entitled to.
In the aftermath of an accident, many individuals are unsure of their legal rights or the compensation they might be eligible for. It's crucial to understand that in Nassau County, car accident victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and even emotional distress. Our firm is committed to ensuring that you are fully informed and prepared to take legal action. We'll guide you through each step, providing insights into local laws that could impact your case.
Although car accidents can be devastating and life-altering—whether they involve motor vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians—our compassionate and knowledgeable Long Island car accident lawyer will help to relieve some of this stress by providing you with support, guidance, and legal services that you can rely on through this difficult time. Additionally, the state's no-fault insurance laws mean that your insurance policy covers initial medical expenses up to a certain limit. Understanding these laws can be complex, but with our help, maneuvering through these legalities can become much more manageable.
Every Long Island personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C. has the experience and resources to establish a strong case proving that the negligent behavior of the opposing party resulted in their failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to the car accident and your suffering. Our strategic approach in handling negotiations with insurance companies ensures that your interests are consistently advocated for.
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Common Causes of Car Accidents in Nassau County
Understanding the frequent causes of car accidents in Nassau County can help victims and their families prepare for legal proceedings. One common cause is distracted driving, where drivers are involved in activities like texting or talking on the phone, diverting their attention from the road. Impaired driving is another major issue, with alcohol and drug use significantly contributing to the frequency of accidents.
Additionally, Nassau County's busy roadways, such as the Long Island Expressway, see a higher incidence of collisions due to heavy traffic and speeding. Weather conditions like snow and rain also play a role in reducing visibility and complicating road navigation. At The Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C., we use our detailed understanding of these local factors to shape robust legal strategies that address the unique challenges in these cases.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
In the chaotic aftermath of a car accident, taking immediate steps to protect yourself and your interests is crucial.
We recommend the following actions:
- Ensure Safety First: If possible, prioritize safety by moving to a safe location. Turn on hazard lights, and call 911 for emergency assistance if injuries are severe.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other party involved. Be sure to collect the names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the scene, which may include vehicle damage, license plates, and any relevant road signs or signals.
- File a Police Report: Reporting the incident to law enforcement is essential, even for seemingly minor accidents. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
- Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the obvious severity of injuries, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be displayed immediately, and having a medical record is crucial for legal proceedings.
It's important to remember that the decisions you make immediately following a car accident can significantly affect your legal claim's outcome. Being informed and prepared for these scenarios can ease stress and strengthen your case. Obtaining legal assistance early is advisable, as it ensures that your rights are protected from the start.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Common injuries may include:
- Whiplash: A sudden jolt can cause the neck to whip around, resulting in whiplash. Symptoms may include neck pain, headaches, and dizziness.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can lead to fractures in various bones, requiring immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Severe accidents may cause traumatic brain injuries, varying from concussions to more severe cognitive impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injury to the spinal cord could result in paralysis or lifelong disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle strains, sprains, and other soft tissue injuries can result in chronic discomfort and limitations in mobility.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a crash may cause internal injuries, like organ damage or internal bleeding.
- Psychological Trauma: Car accidents can leave lasting psychological scars, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Understanding No-Fault Laws in New York
New York is a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents, which means that your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Understanding how the no-fault law works is crucial for navigating the aftermath of a car accident in New York. For instance, being aware of the $50,000 personal injury protection (PIP) limit can help set realistic expectations regarding coverage.
Key points about no-fault laws in New York:
- Your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the accident.
- In order to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet the "serious injury" threshold as defined by New York law.
- No-fault benefits do not cover property damage, so you may still need to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance for vehicle repairs or replacement.
- No-fault laws do not apply to motorcycle accidents, so riders are not eligible for no-fault benefits and can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for all damages.
Our experienced car accident attorney in Long Island can help you navigate the complexities of no-fault laws and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve after a car accident. Aspects like New York's specific insurance policy limits can often be challenging to decipher without professional assistance.
How Long After a Car Accident Can I Sue in NY?
In New York, you have three years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit. This time limit is known as the “statute of limitations.” The timeline begins running on the date the car accident occurred. However, there are some instances under which the statute of limitations may be much shorter. For example, if the claim is against a government entity, you might have only 90 days to file a notice of claim. It’s vital to be aware of these varying deadlines to protect your right to legal recourse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately Following a Car Accident in Nassau County?
Immediately following a car accident, prioritize safety by moving to a secure location if possible. Contact emergency services by dialing 911 if there are any injuries or significant vehicle damage. It's crucial to obtain a police report as it serves as a reliable account of the incident and is typically required when filing an insurance claim. Collect contact and insurance information from all involved parties and gather witness accounts if possible.
Document the scene extensively with photographs focusing on vehicle damages, traffic signals, and road conditions. Consulting with a car accident attorney shortly after an accident ensures that you understand your rights and the proper steps to take based on local laws in Nassau County. It's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even for minor injuries, to ensure your wellbeing and to document injuries for any potential legal proceedings.
How Does Fault Impact a Car Accident Claim in New York?
In New York, which operates under a no-fault insurance system, your initial medical expenses and lost wages resulting from a car accident are covered by your own insurance company regardless of who caused the accident. However, determining fault is still critically important, especially if your injuries qualify as a serious injury under New York law, allowing you to sue the at-fault driver for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Establishing fault involves careful consideration of evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photographic documentation. An experienced attorney from The Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C. can assist in investigating to determine and prove fault, which is crucial for obtaining full compensation beyond what is covered by no-fault insurance. Understanding how fault impacts a claim is vital for knowing your legal standing and for potential future litigation.
Can I Still Recover Damages if I Partially Caused the Accident?
Yes, New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This principle allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount of compensation you can receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 30%.
In such cases, documenting evidence and securing witness testimonies become crucial in minimizing your perceived liability. Attorneys at The Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C. have vast experience handling comparative negligence cases, offering strategic guidance to maximize your potential recovery. This local legal expertise is invaluable in negotiating settlements and presenting cases in a way that can favorably highlight the lower degree of your responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NY a No-fault State for Car Accidents?
Yes, New York is a no-fault state for car accidents. This law means insurance companies will generally reimburse insureds for damages regardless of who was responsible for the car accident. However, this doesn't relieve drivers of their own responsibilities. It is crucial to maintain comprehensive and collision insurance for instances where damages exceed the no-fault limits.
Understanding the scope of no-fault laws is essential for determining your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs you might incur. Despite the assumptions often made about no-fault states, drivers still face potential liabilities. For example, property damage isn’t covered by no-fault insurance, meaning that if your car is damaged, you may need to take further steps to ensure full compensation for your losses.
How Does the No-Fault Law Work?
In order for there to be a recovery for pain and suffering pursuant to New York no-fault motor vehicle insurance law, the injury sustained has to qualify as a serious injury as defined by the no-fault law. This implies that understanding what constitutes a 'serious injury' can hugely impact the course of your claim, and often, straightforward cases become complex due to the nuances of these definitions.
Timing also plays a crucial role in no-fault claims. You are typically required to submit a no-fault application to your insurance company within 30 days of the accident. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your ability to receive the benefits you’re entitled to. Engaging a car accident attorney can greatly streamline this process and help you meet all necessary deadlines efficiently.
Our Satisfied Clients
We genuinely care about our clients and will do everything we can to ensure their satisfaction
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“I highly recommend Mr. Goodman.”
I highly recommend Mr. Goodman. I was in a hopeless, scary medical debt situation which he was able to assist me with. From my first consultation with him the weight was lifted off my shoulders. Within just a short time court was able to be avoided and a reasonable settlement was established.- Gabrielle B. -
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You who are reading, will be in good hands. Goodman is a person of human quality, responsible and honest. I recommend it.- Melissa F. -
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I endorse this lawyer. Gregory A. Goodman is an excellent trial attorney and is very well researched in what he does. Mr. Goodman will never come to a trial or a motion conference unless he is fully prepared and knows everything that is going on with the file. He is a fierce advocate and is excellent at what he does. I highly recommend Mr. Goodman.- Jason T. -
“Mr Gregory was very pleasant, helpful & considerate.”
Mr Gregory was very pleasant, helpful & considerate. I would highly recommend him.- Ruth B. -
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“This firm was on point they keep in contact with you by letting you know everything that's going on with your case. I'm happy to have them represent me anytime. Thank you guys.- Shirvon G.
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“Greg is a very trustworthy, knowledgeable attorney”
Greg is handling a litigation matter for me. He is efficient, is moving my case right along and treating me with the upmost respect. He keeps me advised of all phases of the case and I believe he will fight for the best recovery that I can possibly receive. Not many attorneys are this conscientious.- Client -
“Best money I ever spent!”
Excellent lawyer! I live out of state and needed a lawyer in NY I could trust. He made no promises, always upfront about the possible outcomes. He always worked very hard to get me the results I needed. He came through every time! He understood my financial circumstances and worked with me so I could hire him within my budget. Best money I ever spent! He’s honest and trustworthy, and I’m grateful for his help in more than one legal matter. I can’t say enough great things about Greg.- Ted R. -
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Very professional, very respectful and kind, and got the job done for me.- Barwhale G.
