Automobile collisions that involve two or more vehicles are very dramatic, but single-vehicle accidents also do a lot of damage. In fact, thousands of injuries are caused by single-vehicle crashes every year, and most traffic accident fatalities result from these accidents.
If you were harmed in a single-vehicle crash as a passenger, it is in your best interest to speak with a NY car accident attorney as soon as possible. There are strict filing deadlines in these cases, and New York has complicated auto accident liability laws.
Your attorney will guide you through the process and pursue every available avenue to help you get the money you need to get better and take care of your loved ones.
What Causes Single-Vehicle Crashes?
There are several ways a single-vehicle accident can occur. The driver may be intoxicated, driving too fast, or not paying enough attention to the road. Some of the worst passenger injuries result when the person operating a vehicle drives off the road.
A common type of single-vehicle accident is a rollover, which may occur when the driver makes a sudden turn to avoid a pedestrian, animal, or a hazard in the roadway. Single-vehicle crashes can also be the result of a collision with a stationary object, such as a barrier, wall, or tree.
Factors that contribute to single-vehicle accidents include:
- DWI
- Distracted driving
- Road hazards
- Debris
- Speeding
- Dangerous maneuvers
- Poorly graded roads
- Construction equipment left behind
- Careless drivers in other vehicles
It’s Important to Act Right Away If You Have Been Injured in a Crash
Even though New York is a no-fault state when it comes to automobile accidents, you may be able to recover compensation from various parties if you were a passenger who was injured in a single-vehicle accident. The laws in this area are complicated, and you will definitely want to discuss your options with a New York personal injury attorney.
When this type of accident occurs, it’s important to contact your own automobile insurance carrier right away. You only have 30 days after the accident occurs to file a Med Pay (medical payment) claim with your personal carrier.
Your attorney will advise you on the best strategy going forward. You may choose to file a no-fault insurance claim against the driver of the vehicle you were traveling in, and there are additional ways to seek compensation. In New York, a bodily injury claim is separate from a no-fault injury claim.
How Your NY Car Accident Attorney Can Help
It’s important to find an attorney who’s ready to take your case to trial if the other side refuses to make a reasonable offer. A lot of attorneys are willing to take any offer the insurance company makes. These lawyers are happy to sign some papers and get paid, even when the offer isn’t nearly enough to cover the victim’s expenses.
The experienced New York car accident lawyers at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP will fight to get the money you need to cover your medical bills and other expenses that result from the accident, such as loss of income due to time missed from work.
Our firm has won over a billion dollars for our clients, and we won’t back down from anybody. When we file a single-vehicle accident claim, it includes the following types of damages:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement
- Lost wages
- Medical devices
- Reduced quality of life
- Rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy
- Reduced earning capacity
- In-home nursing care
- Wheelchair ramps for your home
- Wrongful death
Who Is Liable for Your Injuries?
Your attorney will investigate the accident and file a claim or a lawsuit against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries. This may include:
- The driver of the vehicle you were traveling in
- Manufacturers of defective automobile parts
- Public officials responsible for road safety and maintenance
- Contractors that do road work
- Driver in other vehicles
- Businesses and drivers responsible for debris falling into the roadway
Were You Injured in an Automobile Accident in New York?
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP we’ve dedicated our practice to getting justice for people injured by the careless actions of others. We treat our clients with respect and compassion, and we’re always available to speak with you about your case.
Our New York City personal injury attorneys have been recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum for providing outstanding service to our clients.
Call (212) 986-7353 to arrange a complimentary consultation today.