CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER IN LONG ISLAND

An auto accident can lead to devastating injuries that affect you for the rest of your life. You may be unable to return to work or afford the ongoing medical care you will need. When someone else’s negligence is the cause, you may be entitled to substantial compensation from the responsible parties.

Our experienced Long Island car accident lawyers at Shulman & Hill are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized legal support to injured individuals. We have been representing car accident victims for over a decade and have recovered over $1 billion in compensation, including a $5.1 million car accident settlement.

No case is too significant, complicated, or challenging for our experienced Long Island personal injury lawyers. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today to learn what we can do for you.

Benefits of Working With Our Long Island Car Accident Lawyers

When you choose Shulman & Hill, you become part of our family. Our focus is on providing a personalized experience and maximizing results. We will learn about your background and lifestyle before your injuries so we can understand everything you have lost. You will receive steadfast support and the individualized attention you deserve.

We are headquartered in Manhattan, have a satellite office on Long Island, and are committed to being fully accessible to you. If your injuries prevent you from coming to our office, our team can come to you or schedule a remote meeting.

You can count on us to answer your calls and keep you informed throughout your case. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so we charge nothing upfront, and you only pay if we win. We have a diverse staff with attorneys fluent in Spanish and Russian.

Our Client Results

We have recovered over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts for injured accident victims, including the following car accident case results:

• $1.5 million for a client injured in a rear-end accident.
• $1.35 million for a client injured in a head-on collision.
• $1.1 million for an Uber driver who was rear-ended by a commercial truck.
• $1 million for a driver struck by another vehicle.
• $650,000 for a taxi driver struck by a truck,
• $625,000 for a delivery driver struck by a bus.

Our car accident attorneys on Long Island can discuss the value of your claim when you turn to us for help.

Types of Auto Accident Claims We Handle

We can help you after any kind of motor vehicle collision. For example, you can reach out to us for the support you need after a:

• Head-on collision
• Rear-end collision
• T-bone accident
• Side-swipe accident
• Rollover accident

We’ll guide you throughout the claims process, providing the personalized support that you deserve. We believe in providing injury victims with personalized care and support, and we’re ready to address your needs right now. 

The Role of a Long Island Car Accident Law Firm

Our dedicated personal injury lawyers on Long Island will handle all of the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovery. You can count on us to:

Explain All Your Rights and Options

Our legal team will review your case during your free consultation, estimate your case value, answer your questions, and advise you throughout your case so you can make informed decisions. We take the time to listen to all your concerns so you can get peace of mind after an accident.

Conduct an Investigation to Gather Evidence

We will review camera footage, obtain police reports, gather witness statements, retain experts, review medical records, and build a strong case so we can maximize your compensation. We know how to support your personal injury claim after a motor vehicle accident in Nassau County, Suffolk County, Brooklyn, or Queens.

Correspond With All Relevant Parties

We will handle communication with the insurance company and other representatives for the defendants so you can focus on recovery. Our personal injury attorneys will prioritize your best interests during all legal communications.

Stand Up for Your Rights

We will fight for maximum compensation and prevent the insurance company from tricking you into accepting a lowball settlement offer. We will also protect you against wrongful allegations of fault.

Keep You Updated About Your Case

We are committed to ensuring an open line of communication and accessibility. We will answer your calls and give you prompt updates about progress in your case. You can reach out to our legal team with any questions or concerns you have throughout the legal process.

Focus on Resolving Your Claim

Our team will review all potential strategies to resolve your legal claim when you turn to us for help. We may help you get a settlement from the insurance company or even pursue a personal injury lawsuit if you qualify.

You can rely on us to get to work on your claim right away when you contact us for help, so don’t hesitate to reach out for a free initial consultation.

Car Accidents and No-Fault Laws in New York

New York uses a no-fault insurance system, which means your compensation after a crash will come from your insurance policy in most cases. Your no-fault insurance policy should cover:

• Your necessary and reasonable medical care
• A percentage of your lost income
• Other reasonable and necessary expenses for transportation or household help

If you need compensation for property damage associated with the crash, you typically have to make a claim directly against the other driver’s liability coverage insurance.

Getting Compensation Outside of the No-Fault System

In some cases, you can qualify to seek compensation outside of the no-fault insurance system in New York. You may have this opportunity if you sustain severe injuries due to someone else’s negligence.

In this situation, you may qualify to file a claim directly against the party responsible for your crash. You could get additional funds to pay for your medical bills or lost income. You can also recover compensation for your non-economic damages, which could include your physical pain, emotional distress, and mental suffering.

What if You Contribute to Causing an Accident?

If you contribute to an accident and qualify to seek compensation outside of the no-fault insurance system used in New York, the state’s laws on pure comparative negligence become applicable.

These laws state that you can seek compensation, even if you partially caused the crash. However, your level of compensation will drop based on your percentage of fault.

For example, let’s say that your accident left you with $100,000 in losses. However, you hold 10% of the fault for the crash. In this situation, you could receive no more than $90,000 in compensation for your losses.

How Much Is Your Car Accident Case Worth?

Your car accident case could be worth a few thousand to millions of dollars. The amount you recover will vary based on the unique facts of your case, such as the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical care, the length of your recovery, changes in your earning capacity, and the effects on your quality of life.

New York’s no-fault insurance laws allow you to recover some of your medical expenses and lost wages from available personal injury protection (PIP) insurance regardless of who is at fault for your accident. If the other party was at fault, you may be eligible for additional compensation through their liability insurance or a personal injury lawsuit, including:

• Current and future medical costs
• Lost wages
• Lost future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Emotional distress

If your loved one died in a car accident, our compassionate Long Island wrongful death lawyers can help you pursue wrongful death damages, such as loss of financial support, your loved one’s pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and your loved one’s medical expenses.

Can You Get Punitive Damages After a Collision?

In some cases, the court system in New York awards punitive damages to car crash victims. These damages punish the party responsible for the collision and only become available in cases where the liable party acted with wanton disregard for the safety of others or malice.

We can review your situation and help you determine if your case qualifies you to receive this form of compensation.

Causes of Car Crashes on Long Island

Car accidents happen for many different reasons in New York. Some of the most common reasons for these crashes include:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving represents a tremendous hazard to everyone on the road. Drivers can get distracted by mobile devices, their passengers, the radio, or even eating and drinking. Even a brief moment of distraction can have catastrophic results.

Drunk Driving

You may qualify for compensation to cover your losses after a crash caused by someone driving under the influence (DUI). Our Long Island car accident attorneys can explain the steps you need to take after a crash caused by impaired driving.

Aggressive Driving

Drivers engage in aggressive or reckless driving when they tailgate other motorists, speed, weave in and out of traffic, ignore traffic signals, and take other dangerous actions behind the wheel. Our team can work on your personal injury claim after a crash caused by another driver’s reckless behavior.

Fatigued Driving

Tired drivers can endanger themselves and others. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and may experience lapses in judgment. They may also fall asleep behind the wheel, resulting in major accidents.

Types of Injuries in Car Accidents

Automobile accidents can result in serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Organ damage and other internal injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
• Cuts and burns
• Paralysis

A personal injury attorney will take your injuries seriously and get to work quickly on your claim to ensure you get the money you need to pay for your medical bills after a crash.

Potential Liable Parties in a Car Accident Case

In many car accidents, the liable party is often another driver. However, it is also possible that other parties caused or contributed to your accident. For example, if one of the vehicles had defective tires, brakes, or other defective components, the company that designed or manufactured the defective vehicle component could be liable for damages.

If the driver who hit you was working at the time of the accident, their employer may be on the hook for damages. If you were struck by a commercial truck, such as a semi-truck, the trucking company may ultimately be responsible for compensating you for the accident.

You can rely on a personal injury attorney to carefully investigate the causes of your crash to identify all potentially liable parties.

What if the Liable Party Flees the Scene?

Drivers have a legal duty to stay at the scene of a crash until the police arrive. Unfortunately, some drivers ignore this law and flee the scene.

If you or your loved one has been injured by a driver who fled the scene, our hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you recover compensation from every available source. We will conduct a thorough, independent investigation and may identify the hit-and-run driver.

Additionally, your no-fault insurance policy may cover your losses. You could have additional coverage through an uninsured/underinsured motorist policy.

Reporting Your Car Accident to the DMV in NY

If you are involved in a car accident in New York, you must file a motorist crash (accident) report with the New York DMV within 10 days of the accident, regardless of fault, if:

• Someone was injured.
• Someone was killed.
• Anyone, including you, sustained property damage of $1,000 or more.

We can explain how to properly report your crash when you turn to us for help.

Where Do Accidents Happen on Long Island?

Accidents can happen anywhere on Long Island, with many occurring in Nassau County and Suffolk County. Some roads also see higher accident rates than others. Particularly dangerous roads include:

• Southern State Parkway
• Northern State Parkway
• Sunrise Highway (Route 27)
• Hempstead Turnpike (Route 24)
• Long Island Expressway (I-495)
• Jericho Turnpike (Route 25)
• Route 110

While these roads see many accidents, crashes can happen anywhere in our area.

Dangerous Intersections on Long Island

Some of the most dangerous intersections on Long Island include:

Straight Path and Sunrise Highway

The intersection at Straight Path and Sunrise Highway poses dangers to motorists for many reasons. Many drivers speed through this intersection, abruptly change lanes, and merge without checking their blind spots.

Additionally, there’s limited visibility at the intersection, and the length of the turning lanes increases the likelihood of accidents.

Old Country Road and Broadway

This intersection is a centrally located crossroads that’s near busy commercial areas. We often see heavy congestion in this area and complicated traffic patterns that can confuse drivers, resulting in major accidents.

In many cases, the many lanes of traffic at this intersection result in drivers running red lights. Large trucks and parked vehicles can also disrupt visibility at the intersection, further increasing the chances of a crash.

Veterans Memorial Highway and Old Nichols Road

This intersection sees many accidents due to drivers speeding through and issues with poorly timed traffic signals. We see a lot of sideswipe accidents and multi-vehicle collisions as drivers from business parks and residential neighborhoods all try to get to their destinations.

Jackson Street and North Franklin Street

The intersection at North Franklin Street and Jackson Street sees an incredibly high volume of foot, bicycle, bus, and vehicle traffic. Some of the hazards at this intersection include limited left-turn lanes, poor signage, and issues with visibility.

Drivers often become frustrated and impatient, especially during peak school hours.

Nesconset Highway (State Route 347) and Nicolls Road

This intersection sees some of the heaviest use on Long Island. The shopping malls and restaurants in the area add to the hazards faced by drivers. Additional hazards come from cyclists and pedestrians using the intersection and from its wide crossing distances.

Many drivers end up running red lights at this intersection, resulting in many rear-end collisions. Our team can step up to assist after a crash anywhere in New York City. Contact us now to discuss what you should do and how we can help with your personal injury claim.

Why Do Accidents Happen More in Some Locations?

Accidents are more likely in some areas for a variety of reasons. Some reasons for higher accident rates include:

Aging Infrastructure

As road infrastructure ages and wears out, it becomes increasingly hazardous to motorists. Some intersections have broken traffic lights or plants overgrowing road signs, for example. Additionally, as pavement wears out, it can develop potholes and other issues that increase the risk of accidents.

Lack of Pedestrian Crossings

Long Island has many urban areas with a lot of pedestrians. Limited crossings increase the chances of certain types of collisions, like pedestrian accidents.

Inadequate Signage

Lack of proper signage on the road can cause confusion if drivers need to merge or make a sudden turn.

While all of these factors can contribute to crashes, New York expects drivers to adapt to the hazards on the road and to exercise increased caution when necessary. We can give you more information about potential hazards and address your legal needs after a crash.

What to Do After Your Automobile Accident

After a car crash, you should:

Notify the Police

If someone was injured or killed, you must report the accident to law enforcement immediately and remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives.

In cases involving property damage only, you must exchange insurance and license information with the other driver. Leaving the scene of an accident without meeting these requirements can lead to legal consequences.

Get Medical Care

Make sure that you seek immediate treatment for your injuries after a motor vehicle crash. Getting treatment quickly will establish a connection between your accident and your injuries, making it easier for you to get the money you need to cover your medical expenses.

Gather Evidence

If possible, make sure you collect evidence from the scene of the crash. You may get pictures of your injuries and the damage to your vehicle. We also recommend that you talk to witnesses and get their contact information.

Finally, make sure you write down everything that happened before and during the crash. A written account can assist as we build your personal injury claim.

Contact Our Long Island Personal Injury Law Firm

Make sure that you reach out to our team for professional legal advice after a collision. We’ll give you more information about what you should do after a crash and ensure you have support throughout all stages of the legal process.

We take charge of all legal matters so you can focus on healing.

What Shouldn’t You Do After a Car Crash?

We can help you avoid mistakes that could damage your claim for compensation after a motor vehicle collision. In most cases, you should avoid:

Admit Fault for the Crash

Taking the blame for a crash could impact the compensation you qualify to receive if you can make a claim outside of the state’s no-fault insurance system. Even apologizing after a crash could qualify as accepting fault for the collision, so exercise extreme caution in what you say.

Post on Social Media

Generally, you want to stay off social media after a crash. Insurance representatives and other lawyers can use the things you post to minimize your compensation, perhaps using posts to claim that your accident did not result in severe injuries.

Talking to the Insurance Company Without a Long Island Car Accident Lawyer

You should always have your Long Island car accident attorney at your side when talking to representatives from the insurance company. These representatives want to protect the company’s profits, and they don’t care about your losses.

You should also avoid signing any papers provided by the insurance company unless your Long Island car accident lawyer reviews them and approves. Accepting a lowball settlement offer could prevent you from getting fair payment for your losses.

Statute of Limitations in New York Car Accident Cases

According to CPLR § 214, there is typically a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New York. Certain factors can change the time limit for filing an injury lawsuit, but it is always best to get started on a car accident case right away.

The sooner our attorneys can begin an investigation and start building a case, the better your chances of recovering maximum compensation.

When you hire us, we take care of everything. We’re going to work with you on your medical treatment. We’re going to get the things filed immediately so there are no issues with billing and payment of your medical bills. That is why it’s so important to get a Long Island car accident lawyer involved right away.

How Long Do Car Crash Claims Take?

The time it takes to successfully resolve personal injury claims after auto accidents varies. The severity of your injuries, potential disputes regarding liability for the crash, and even the method we use to handle your claim will all influence how long it will take to fully resolve your claim.

We do everything possible to expedite the legal process on behalf of injury victims. We want to minimize the time you spend waiting for the compensation you need to cover your losses and move forward with your life.

What Should You Ask a Long Island Car Accident Attorney?

Before selecting a personal injury lawyer to handle your car crash claim, you should ask a few questions to make sure they’re a good fit for your needs. Make sure that you ask:

Do You Have Experience Handling Car Crash Claims?

You can improve your chances of getting fair compensation for your losses by hiring an attorney who has experience with motor vehicle accident claims. A Long Island car accident lawyer with experience will know what to expect throughout the legal process and can provide the support you need.

Our team has extensive experience with these claims, earned through over 200 years of combined time serving clients in our area.

Have You Successfully Handled Auto Accident Claims?

You can ask about the law firm’s success rate for handling cases like yours. Our team is proud to share our case results so you can review your record of success. For example, we recently secured $5.1 million for a client injured as a passenger in a vehicle.

We also invite you to review our testimonials to see what our clients have to say about the services we offer to injury victims.

Do You Think I Have a Valid Claim?

Find out what your attorney thinks about the strengths and potential weaknesses of your claim before moving forward with the legal process. Our team will communicate with you honestly, using our knowledge of legal codes in New York to assess your eligibility for compensation.

How Much Do You Charge for Legal Services?

Make sure you understand the costs of hiring a personal injury attorney before you sign any paperwork. Our team works on contingency, meaning we’ll receive a percentage of your final compensation for our legal fees.

You should also ask about other costs associated with your personal injury claim, so you know what to expect when it comes to securing legal assistance.

Get the Help You Deserve From a Long Island, NY, Car Accident Lawyer

Our team at Shulman & Hill believes that you deserve professional help and support after an auto accident. You can reach out to our Long Island car accident attorneys immediately after a collision to take charge of your future and your legal claim.

We’ll discuss all the legal options that can help you get fair compensation for your losses by using our extensive experience and legal knowledge to offer personalized support.

Reach out now and discuss your next steps with a risk-free initial consultation.