Car Accident Lawyer Midtown Manhattan, NY

What To Do During A Car Accident

Experiencing a car accident can be a traumatic and disorienting event. It’s crucial to stay calm and take specific steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights. In Midtown Manhattan, NY, where traffic can be hectic, knowing what to do in the aftermath of an accident is essential. This article provides a comprehensive guide, including when to contact a car accident lawyer like those at The Eskesen Law Firm.

Immediate Steps Following an Accident

• Ensure Safety: Your first priority should be to check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
• Move to a Safe Location: If the accident is minor and your car is obstructing traffic, move it to the side of the road if possible.
• Exchange Information: Collect the names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details of all parties involved.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries.
• Report the Accident: Notify the police. A police report can be crucial in insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Dealing with Injuries and Trauma

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
• Document Your Injuries: Keep a detailed record of your medical visits, treatments, and how your injuries affect your daily life.
• Consider Emotional Impact: Car accidents can be psychologically traumatic. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or support.

Interacting with Insurance Companies

• Report the Accident: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
• Be Cautious: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you.
• Understand Your Coverage: Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered.

When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

• Complex Cases: If the accident involves significant property damage, injuries, or death, legal representation is crucial.
• Disputes Over Fault: If there’s a disagreement about who is responsible, a lawyer can help.
• Unfair Settlement Offers: If the insurance company offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your costs, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf.

Car accidents are challenging, but taking the right steps can significantly impact your recovery and legal proceedings. If you find yourself in a car accident in Midtown Manhattan, NY, remember to prioritize safety, gather information, and consider the necessity of legal assistance.

For expert legal advice and representation, reach out to The Eskesen Law Firm. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of your case with professionalism and care. Contact us to ensure your rights are protected and to get the compensation you deserve.

Car Accident Infographic

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Navigating the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan, NY, can be a challenge for even the most experienced drivers. Understanding the common causes of car accidents is crucial for prevention and preparedness. In the unfortunate event of an accident, knowing when to seek legal assistance, especially from specialized car accident lawyers like The Eskesen Law Firm, can be invaluable.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents. The use of mobile phones while driving, including texting and calling, drastically diverts a driver’s attention from the road, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. The act of looking away from the road for even a few seconds can have fatal consequences.

Other forms of distractions include:

• Eating and Drinking: These activities require the use of hands, which should be on the steering wheel, and can also take the driver’s eyes off the road.
• Adjusting Car Controls: This includes changing radio stations, temperature controls, or using a navigation system. Each of these actions can momentarily distract a driver from the task of driving.

Speeding

Speeding is a critical issue on the roads. Driving over the speed limit is dangerous as it decreases the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes on the road, such as a pedestrian crossing or a car stopping abruptly.

Aggressive driving behaviors related to speeding include:

• Tailgating: This practice reduces the distance for safe braking and reaction.
• Rapid Lane Changes: Frequent and abrupt lane changes can surprise other drivers, leading to collisions.
• Illegal Racing: Racing on public roads is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous, often resulting in severe accidents.

Driving Under the Influence

The influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain prescription medications can severely impair a driver’s faculties. These substances affect the central nervous system, leading to impaired judgment, reduced reaction time, and altered coordination.

Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, and sleet create hazardous driving environments. These conditions can dramatically affect road traction, leading to skidding and loss of control. Reduced visibility during such weather conditions also adds to the risk.

Driver Fatigue

Fatigue is a significant factor in many road accidents. Drivers who are tired have slower reaction times and reduced concentration. This can be due to lack of sleep or extended periods behind the wheel without adequate breaks.

Poor Road Conditions

Roads in poor condition are a significant hazard for drivers. Issues such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, and inadequate road maintenance can cause vehicles to lose control. Inadequate signage or poorly marked roadworks can also lead to confusion and accidents.

Vehicle Malfunctions

Mechanical failures in vehicles, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can lead to serious accidents. Regular maintenance of vehicles is essential to prevent such occurrences.

Inexperienced Drivers

Inexperienced drivers, typically younger individuals who have recently obtained their licenses, may lack the necessary skills and judgment required for safe driving. This lack of experience can result in poor decision-making in complex driving situations.

What Compensations Can You Receive

Car accidents can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Understanding what types of compensation you might be entitled to is crucial for mitigating these challenges. In Midtown Manhattan, NY, where the bustling streets often witness accidents, a knowledgeable car accident lawyer, such as those at The Eskesen Law Firm, can guide you through the process of claiming your rightful compensation.

Types of Compensation in Car Accident Cases

Medical Expenses

• Emergency Treatment: Costs incurred for emergency room visits, ambulance fees, surgery, etc.
• Ongoing Care: Expenses related to physical therapy, chiropractic care, or any long-term rehabilitation.
• Future Medical Costs: Anticipated expenses for chronic injuries or disabilities resulting from the accident.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

• Immediate Lost Wages: Compensation for the time off work due to the accident and recovery period.
• Future Earnings Loss: If the injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for diminished earning capacity.

Property Damage

• Vehicle Repairs: Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Rental Car Expenses: Reimbursement for the costs of a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired.

Pain and Suffering

• Physical Pain: Compensation for ongoing pain due to injuries sustained in the accident.
• Emotional Distress: This includes anxiety, depression, and trauma resulting from the accident.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

• Lifestyle Changes: Compensation for inability to enjoy hobbies and activities you once did before the accident.

Punitive Damages

• In Cases of Gross Negligence: These are awarded in rare cases where the defendant’s actions were especially harmful or reckless.

It’s crucial to seek legal advice soon after a car accident. In New York, there are specific time limits for filing a claim. Delaying can jeopardize your right to compensation. Our team at The Eskesen Law Firm is ready to provide prompt and effective legal assistance.

Speak with one of our attorneys about your accident. Call us at 212-433-4500 to schedule a free initial consultation.

YOU DESERVE MORE THAN A LOWBALL INSURANCE SETTLEMENT

How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Insurance

After a car accident, there are two critical timelines to be aware of: how long the accident affects your insurance rates and the time frame within which you can initiate a lawsuit. Understanding these aspects is crucial, especially in bustling areas like Midtown Manhattan, NY. The Eskesen Law Firm, with its seasoned car accident lawyers, can provide invaluable guidance through these complexities.

Duration on Insurance Record

• Typical Time Frame: Generally, a car accident stays on your insurance record for about three to five years.
• Varies by State and Insurer: The exact duration can vary based on state laws and the policies of individual insurance companies.

Impact on Insurance Premiums

• Initial Increase: After an accident, especially if you’re at fault, expect an increase in your insurance premiums.
• Decrease Over Time: Over time, and with a clean driving record, these premiums can decrease back to pre-accident rates.

Factors Affecting Insurance Impact

• Severity of the Accident: Major accidents, especially those involving injuries, may impact your insurance longer.
• Driving History: Drivers with multiple accidents or violations might find that accidents affect their premiums for a longer duration.

How Long After a Car Accident Can You Sue

Statute of Limitations

• General Rule: In many states, including New York, you have a limited time after a car accident to file a lawsuit. This period is typically three years for personal injury and property damage.
• Exceptions Exist: Certain circumstances, like accidents involving government vehicles, might have different deadlines.

Importance of Timely Legal Action

• Evidence Preservation: Over time, evidence can be lost or become less reliable. Acting quickly ensures that evidence remains fresh and more credible.
• Witness Recall: Witnesses’ memories are clearer shortly after the event, making their testimonies more valuable.

Factors Influencing the Lawsuit Timeline

• Injury Discovery: Sometimes, injuries or damages aren’t apparent immediately. The clock on the statute of limitations might start when you discover the injury.
• Minors: If a minor is involved, the timeline for filing a lawsuit may be extended until they reach adulthood.

Understanding the impact of a car accident on your insurance and the legal timelines for filing a lawsuit is essential. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Midtown Manhattan, NY, contact us at The Eskesen Law Firm. Let us help you navigate these complex issues with professionalism and care. We are committed to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

How long after a car accident can you sue

After experiencing a car accident, it’s crucial to understand the legal timeframe within which you can initiate a lawsuit. This is especially important in places like Midtown Manhattan, NY, where busy streets often witness numerous accidents. The Eskesen Law Firm, with its team of skilled car accident lawyers, is well-equipped to guide you through this process.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In the context of car accidents, this time frame varies based on several factors:

• General Time Frame: Typically, in many states, including New York, you have about three years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.
• Exceptions: Certain conditions can alter this timeline. For instance, if the accident involves government vehicles or entities, different rules might apply.

Factors Affecting the Statute of Limitations

Several factors can influence the timeline for filing a lawsuit after a car accident:

• Date of Discovery: In cases where injuries or damages are not immediately apparent, the statute of limitations might begin from the date you discovered the injury.
• Involvement of Minors: If a minor is involved in the accident, the statute of limitations may be extended until they reach the age of majority.
• Wrongful Death Claims: If the accident resulted in a fatality, the timeline for a wrongful death lawsuit may differ from personal injury claims.

Why Timely Action is Crucial

Acting within the statute of limitations is crucial for several reasons:

• Preservation of Evidence: Over time, evidence can become lost or less reliable. Acting promptly ensures that evidence is fresh and more convincing.
• Witness Memory: The recall of witnesses is typically clearer shortly after the accident, making their testimonies more potent.
• Legal Preparedness: Early consultation with a car accident lawyer allows for better preparation and development of a robust legal strategy.

How The Eskesen Law Firm Can Assist You

If you have been involved in a car accident in Midtown Manhattan, NY, it’s essential to understand your rights and the legal time frames for filing a lawsuit. We at The Eskesen Law Firm are here to provide professional legal guidance and support. Contact us as soon as possible to ensure that your case is handled within the appropriate legal timeline, safeguarding your right to compensation and justice. Our commitment is to work diligently on your behalf, ensuring that your legal journey is as smooth and successful as possible.

Client Review

“I highly recommend The Eskesen Law Firm. From our first meeting, Frank Eskesen and his team explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and were always very efficient, professional and caring. I’m beyond thrilled with the results.”
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