If you get injured in a car accident in New York, you’ll want to know how liability works and how you can claim damages. NY is a no-fault state, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t hold a negligent driver accountable for their actions. A car accident lawyer in Queens can tell you more.
How Does Liability Work in a No-Fault State?
When you get hit in a no-fault state, you first use your own insurance coverage to cover expenses. If you are injured, personal injury protection coverage can help make up for costs like lost wages and medical expenses. This means that people can go to the hospital or doctor and get the treatment they need without having to worry about a lawsuit or out-of-pocket costs.
Unfortunately, for people with serious injuries the no-fault coverage may not be enough. This means that they will have to make a claim with another driver’s insurance company as well, and that’s when matters can get a bit more complicated.
Does Liability Matter If I Sue For Damages?
If your injuries are serious and you sue another driver for damages, liability matters quite a bit. You need to show that this other driver was negligent and that this negligence caused your injuries. If you cannot successfully pin the blame on another driver, it will be difficult to get their insurance company to give up any money.
What Evidence Can Help Prove Liability?
This is why it’s important to build a compelling case with plenty of evidence. Some things that can help you prove liability and your injuries include:
- Videos of the accident
- Eyewitness testimony
- Photos of the damage and accident scene
- Medical records
- Testimony from knowledgeable witnesses, like medical experts and accident reconstruction experts
- A police report
You may even want to keep a journal about your recovery and what kind of pain you’ve gone through thanks to your injuries.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
You are not required to hire a lawyer, but it is recommended. Building a personal injury case on your own isn’t easy, nor is negotiating with insurance companies. Our attorneys have plenty of experience when it comes to these matters though. We can help you:
- Gather evidence
- Connect with expert witnesses
- Defend yourself from accusations of wrongdoing
- Hold all liable parties accountable
- Calculate fair compensation
- Prepare for testimony or depositions
- Weigh the pros and cons of going to trial
The insurance companies have lawyers. Even the playing field by having an experienced attorney of your own, one who’s ready to help you fight for fair compensation.
Meet With Our Legal Team
So if you were hurt in an accident and you’re ready to claim compensation, contact the Law Offices of George Poulos. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about your legal options.
