Car accidents happen often, especially in a busy area like Elmont, NY. You think it will never happen to you until it does, and you have no idea how to properly proceed with legal action. Having an Elmont car accident lawyer guide you through the steps can take a lot of the burden off your shoulders.
At Levine And Wiss, we recognize the importance of community involvement beyond our legal practice. We believe in the importance of a strong community and are committed to fostering that environment for all New York residents.
When you work with an Elmont personal injury lawyer on our team, you get compassionate legal representation and access to our dedicated team.
New York City Car Accident Statistics
New York City experienced many motor vehicle collisions in June 2024, with 7,828 reported incidents, according to the Police Department City of New York. These crashes resulted in 3,460 injuries or fatal collisions, showing the serious nature of many accidents on New York’s streets.
The human toll was substantial, with 2,051 motorists, 1,479 passengers, 495 cyclists, and 673 pedestrians injured, while 8 motorists, 1 passenger, 4 cyclists, and 14 pedestrians lost their lives.
Driver inattention and distraction emerged as the leading contributing factor, accounting for 2,314 incidents, highlighting the ongoing challenge of keeping drivers focused on the road. Following too closely (578 cases) and failing to yield right-of-way (530 cases) were the next most common factors, pointing to greater awareness and adherence to traffic rules.
Aggressive driving and road rage contributed to 90 collisions, while alcohol involvement was a factor in 187 incidents, emphasizing the persistent issues of impaired and aggressive driving.
The data reveals that passenger vehicles were involved in most collisions (6,010), followed closely by SUVs and station wagons (4,821). However, the involvement of 584 bicycles, 443 motorcycles, and 268 buses in accidents reveals the diversity of New York’s traffic and the need for comprehensive safety measures.
Interestingly, taxis were involved in 329 collisions, while large commercial vehicles with six or more tires were implicated in 599 incidents, highlighting the unique challenges posed by commercial and public transportation in the city’s complex traffic environment.
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How the At-Fault Party Is Determined
In New York, fault is typically established through evidence gathering, witness statements, and expert analysis. The process often involves a thorough investigation of the accident scene, a review of police reports, and an examination of any available video footage or photographic evidence. Factors considered in determining fault include:
- Traffic law violations
- Driver behavior and actions leading up to the accident
- Road conditions and weather at the time of the incident
- Vehicle maintenance records
- Expert testimony on accident reconstruction
Insurance companies play a significant role in the fault determination process. They often conduct their investigations alongside law enforcement efforts.
In some cases, fault may be shared between multiple parties, which is why you should understand comparative negligence in New York, which can affect the compensation available to injured parties.
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What New York’s No-Fault Insurance Policy Means for You
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system meant to streamline the claims process. Regardless of fault, individuals in a car accident can receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages from their insurance company under this policy. The main aspects of New York’s no-fault insurance policy include:
- Coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and incidental costs
- A limitation on lawsuits for minor injuries
- The ability to pursue legal action for serious injuries or when damages exceed policy limits
Despite its benefits, the no-fault system has limitations. Individuals with serious injuries or significant financial losses may find the coverage insufficient. In such cases, consulting with a car accident attorney in Elmont can help you through any difficulties and explore additional legal options for compensation because actions after car accidents matter and can make or break your case.
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Why You Should Have a Copy of Your Police Report
After being involved in a New York accident, knowing what to do after being injured is important. Officers responding to the scene will complete a traffic accident report, and one of the first things you should do is ensure you have a copy. This report will serve as vital evidence when filing a personal injury claim or dealing with insurance companies.
Obtaining a copy of your police report is straightforward and can significantly benefit your case. You can request a copy by submitting a Request for Copy of Collision Record form by mail or in person at the appropriate office. The Collision Report Retrieval Portal may have a digital copy available for download, typically within seven days of the accident.
The accident report is invaluable for your Elmont car accident attorney during the accident investigation process. It includes vital information such as the names and contact details of everyone involved, insurance information, accident details (date, time, location), weather and traffic conditions, and the officer’s initial fault assessment.
Having easy access to this information can be particularly helpful if your personal injury claim takes longer than expected to resolve, as details can fade from memory over time.
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How to Know if You Have a Justifiable Case
The strength of your case often depends on the severity of your injuries, the clarity of fault, and the extent of damages you have incurred. It is important to consider the accident’s immediate and long-term impacts on your life, health, and financial stability. Indicators of a potentially justifiable case include:
- Significant injuries requiring extensive medical treatment
- Clear evidence of the other party’s negligence or fault
- Substantial financial losses, including medical bills and lost wages
- Long-term or permanent disability resulting from the accident
- Emotional trauma or diminished quality of life
It is important to note that even if your situation does not perfectly align with all these indicators, you may still have a valid claim. Each case is unique, and seemingly minor accidents can sometimes lead to significant long-term consequences that are not immediately apparent.
A thorough medical evaluation and legal assessment with a car accident lawyer in Elmont can uncover less obvious impacts and strengthen your position, ensuring you do not overlook potential grounds for compensation.
Work with an Elmont Car Accident Attorney
At Levine And Wiss, our Elmont car accident lawyers believe informed decisions lead to optimal outcomes. Our attorneys offer a confidential, obligation-free consultation to analyze your Elmont car accident case and reveal your legal options.
Schedule your free consultation today and gain the strategic insight needed to navigate your claim with confidence and clarity.
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