Unfortunately, car accidents occur often. When we are driven by someone, we are placing a lot of trust in that individual. We assume that the person driving will act safely and responsibly. But, this is not always the case, and serious injuries can occur. Read on to learn more about passenger injuries in car accidents in New York.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can be caused by a number of different factors, but most commonly they are a result of driver negligence. The most common forms of negligence include:
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving aggressively or recklessly
- Eating or smoking while driving
- Excessively speeding
- Failing to comply with traffic lights, signs, and other rules of the road
Fulfilling the Burden of Proof
If you are injured due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to recover compensation. In order to do so, you will need to prove that the accident was caused by negligence. One of the most important things you can do is take photos and videos at the scene of the accident. If there are multiple people in the car, each person should take their own photos. Additionally, it can be tempting to skip a trip to the hospital and recover at home. But, it is important to go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility. This will ensure that your injuries are treated properly while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Make sure to ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim
If you wish to pursue legal action, you will have to do so within a certain amount of time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In New York, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally three years. This means that if you fail to file within three years from the date of the accident, you will most likely lose your opportunity to recover the compensation you deserve. To avoid missing any important deadlines, reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact our firm today to discuss your case.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. We understand the implications of a serious accident, which is why we take pride in tenaciously representing our clients. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.