If you live in Queens or frequently visit the area, you are likely familiar with the borough's dense population and heavy traffic. According to recent data from the New York Police Department (NYPD), traffic fatalities in Queens have surged significantly in 2024, showing a 43% increase compared to the average rate. This alarming rise highlights the dangers posed by the borough’s congested roads.
Victims of Queens car accidents would never have imagined their lives to change so abruptly as they stepped out of their homes, but the fact remains that what life may bring to us is always unpredictable. While you can’t control what happens, what you can do, however, is to prepare for unexpected situations in the best way you can. This guide will walk you through the ways a Queens car accident lawyer can assist if you find yourself involved in a Queens car accident.
Types of Car Accident Cases Handled by Queens Car Accident Lawyers
Sinces Queens is an NYC borough that is frequently affected by car accidents, several types of car accident cases have been identified as more frequent than others. Car accidents occur mostly in areas such as intersections, parking lots, stop signs, stop lights, and highways.
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents in Queens caused by tailgating and sudden stops. When a vehicle crashes into the one in front, the driver and passengers can become victims of whiplash injuries.
Another type of car accident that requires the legal expertise of a car accident attorney Queens is t-bone accidents. These accidents are also known as side-impact or broadside collisions. As suggested by the name, side-impact collisions are a result of drivers failing to manage the vehicle at an intersection or a stop light. As the sides of vehicles are prone to more damage than the front or rear, t-bone accidents cause more serious injuries.
The type of car accident and the severity of injuries sustained will determine the level of legal assistance required from your Queens car accident attorney. Regardless of the specifics, it is essential to consult your Queens car accident lawyer as soon as possible as early consultation ensures you receive timely guidance and the necessary support to build a strong case for compensation.
Particularly in the case of hit-and-run accidents where the identification of the responsible party requires investigation, legal assistance from Queens auto accident attorneys is an absolute necessity.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Queens?
After a car accident in Queens, knowing the right steps to take can significantly impact your recovery, both physically and legally. To take care of yourself and your loved ones, you need to keep several things in mind.
Immediately after the crash, the most critical action is to check for injuries. Whether minor or severe, getting medical attention is essential since some injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not show immediate symptoms.
If possible, move to a safe area to avoid further accidents. However, in cases of severe damage or injury, wait for the police to arrive before moving your vehicle. Calling the police is required by law in Queens, especially when there is injury, death, or significant damage.
This step is also important as the police will fill out a police report that is required for filing insurance claims and building a legal case, should there be a need. Experienced Queens auto accident attorneys will evaluate your accident case and fight for deserving compensation once you consult them.
During the aftermath of a car accident, it is vital to exchange information with the other drivers as well as witnesses involved. Gather contact details, license plate numbers, and vehicle descriptions calmly. Additionally, take the time to document the scene with photos and videos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any injuries. This evidence is key if insurance companies undervalue your claim.
Most importantly, even if you feel uninjured, seek medical attention. A medical report is necessary when your car accident attorney Queens negotiates with insurance companies. As insurance companies try to minimize payouts, you need the legal expertise of top auto accident lawyers in Queens. Although you yourself can notify your insurance company until your Queens car accident lawyer takes over, avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice.
Consulting the best car accident lawyer Queens can help you to protect your rights especially if the at-fault party or the insurance company fails to offer a fair resolution. So, an important step to take right after a car accident is to consult a skilled car accident lawyer who can make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, property damage, or lost wages.
Understanding Insurance Laws with a Queens Car Accident Lawyer
If you face a car accident in Queens, you have to adhere to the New York state laws on claim insurance. New York operates under a no-fault insurance system. The New York no-fault insurance law ensures that your medical expenses and lost wages are covered, regardless of who the at-fault party is. This makes the compensation process faster as you don’t have to wait for a fault determination.
However, if your injuries are severe, you will be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party with legal assistance from top auto accident lawyers in Queens. Different injury types are covered under the serious injury threshold as per New York laws. If your serious injuries are proven to surpass the serious injury threshold, you can seek additional compensation for pain and suffering or other damages with the legal aid of auto injury lawyers Queens.
The no-fault insurance system in New York is helpful for courts to streamline their processes so that time is not wasted over minor accident disputes that insurance companies can resolve. However, insurance companies try to lower your compensation with minimum coverage.
You also need to make sure that your insurance policies are continuously maintained. If a policy lapses, you might have to undergo penalties and even be suspended from driving privileges.
Common Injuries in Queens Car Accidents
Car accidents in Queens can result in a wide variety of injuries, ranging from minor cuts to life-threatening conditions. Understanding the most common types of injuries can help victims recognize the severity of their situation and seek the appropriate care.
As with any other accident category, car accidents also lead to injuries of a severe nature. From burns to traumatic brain injuries, the range of injuries that you may be prone to when driving in Queens is exhaustive.
The most common type of injury caused by car accidents in Queens is whiplash. When your neck muscles are strained due to sudden movements in a rear-end collision, whiplash occurs. This injury may lead to long-term pain and reduced mobility if left untreated.
Another cause of concern in auto accidents that occur in Queens as well as other areas in New York that are highly congested is head injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries. The chances of hitting your head on a steering wheel, dashboard, or window due to a sudden jolt during the crash are very high, more so, if you don’t wear a seat belt. Even the slightest symptoms such as confusion and headaches should be taken seriously as prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing a permanent disability.
Depending on the nature of your auto injury, top auto accident lawyers in Queens can determine the best course of action to recover a deserving compensation. Car accident attorneys in Queens advise you to get a medical report following a car crash even if you feel like the injuries are not that serious. This is due to the fact that securing compensation from insurance companies requires negotiation.
If your injuries fall under the threshold of serious injuries as per the law of New York, your Queens auto injury lawyer will file a lawsuit against the at-fault party to secure additional compensation for pain and suffering, medical treatment, and lost wages due to permanent disabilities that no-fault insurance does not cover.
Legal Help from a Queens Car Accident Lawyer
Contacting a trusted Queens car accident lawyer is the first step towards getting the justice and compensation you deserve. While you focus on your recovery, you can expect your car accident attorney Queens to make use of many resources such as expert witnesses, accident reconstruction experts, and medical professionals to investigate your case carefully.
Don’t make the mistake of coming to your own conclusions on how your accident case can be resolved, especially with the opinions of insurance companies and the involved driver. Only your car accident lawyer in Queens will put your priorities first and advise you for your benefit. Therefore, stay alert and don’t let others sway your mind right after the car accident. Instead, call your car accident attorney Queens immediately.
At Alex Yadgarov & Associates, we understand how difficult this time is for you and do our best to preserve your peace of mind. We will negotiate with insurance companies and the at-fault party for you. If need be, we have experience in handling court cases and will work towards getting the compensation you deserve.
For further reading
Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Queens
Steps to Take After a Car Crash: Tips from the Best Car Accident Lawyers in Queens
Auto Injury Lawyers Queens: Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Car Accident
Need help after a car accident? Our experienced Queens car accident lawyers are here for you. Book your free consultation today and get the guidance you deserve!