If you’re one of many New York residents who have been involved in a collision that resulted in injuries, you might also be among those who are considering litigation as a means of holding the responsible party accountable for negligence. Distracted driving, driver intoxication and driver fatigue are some of the most common issues of negligence that precede a crash. Following a car accident, the top priority is to seek medical attention.
After that, you will have numerous other issues to contend with and decisions to make, such as whether you should hire an attorney. If your injuries were moderate to severe, or even life-threatening, it’s a situation that is likely to spark financial distress during recovery. One of the benefits of hiring a personal injury law attorney when you’re planning on filing a legal claim is that he or she can determine the maximum compensation to which you may have a right for damages.
Determining when to settle with an insurance company versus filing a lawsuit
A personal injury attorney is a skilled negotiator who can review your case and determine the full extent and potential implications of the damages that occurred. Many people have made the mistake in the past of agreeing to an insurance company’s suggested settlement, only to experience far more adverse medical issues down the line than expected. Such a settlement (which might be a few thousand dollars) may not even come close to being able to cover post-accident care in such cases.
A personal injury attorney acts on your behalf in court
Litigation associated with a car accident can be complex and highly stressful. Having to discuss details of the incident may reawaken emotional trauma. Many litigants say that having an attorney by their side to speak and act on their behalf in court made their experience a lot less stressful. An attorney can also make sure that you receive a fair decision.
Every state has its own personal injury law guidelines
New York laws pertaining to car accident litigation may be different from laws in another state. For instance, states often vary regarding statutes of limitation that require one to file a legal claim within a certain amount of time following a collision. The issues that constitute “damages” also vary by state. This is another reason it is typically beneficial to act alongside experienced legal representation. An attorney is well-versed in state laws and can make recommendations accordingly.
