If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, you might be feeling confused, scared, and uncertain about what to do next. You are not alone in these feelings, and we are here to help you navigate through this challenging time. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand the emotional and physical toll a pedestrian accident can take on you and your loved ones. Our goal is to guide you through the process and ensure you get the legal support you need to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding Your Situation
After a pedestrian accident, many thoughts and questions may flood your mind. The physical injuries you’ve sustained can be overwhelming, and the legal process might seem like an additional burden. It’s normal to feel uncertain, but it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. Understanding what steps to take after an accident is crucial to ensuring your case is handled properly from the start.
First and foremost, your health and safety should be your number one priority. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, make sure you seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think your injuries are serious. Some injuries, such as internal trauma or whiplash, may not show up right away, and early treatment can help prevent future complications. Once your health is taken care of, you can begin focusing on the legal aspects of your case.
Gathering Important Information
In the aftermath of the accident, it is important to gather as much information as possible. This will be helpful when building your case. If you are able, take note of the driver’s contact information, insurance details, and the make and model of the vehicle involved. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information as well. Photographs of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles can also be valuable in supporting your case.
Additionally, if you’re able to do so, try to document your own account of the accident as soon as possible. Your memory may fade with time, and having a written record will help you remember the details when needed later on.
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Filing a Police Report
After the accident, you should contact the police to file a report, especially if there were any injuries or significant damage. A police report is an essential part of your case, as it provides an official account of what happened. Be sure to request a copy of the report, as it will be used by your attorney to help build your case and can be helpful when dealing with insurance companies.
It’s important to remain calm and cooperative with the police officers. Avoid admitting fault at the scene of the accident, as this could negatively impact your case. Stick to the facts and provide as much information as you can without speculating about what may have caused the accident.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.” - Jane D.
Seeking Legal Help
In New York, pedestrian accidents can be complex, especially if the accident involved a vehicle. Insurance companies and other parties may attempt to minimize their liability, leaving you with less compensation than you deserve. It’s at this point that seeking the help of a lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
A lawyer with experience in handling pedestrian accident cases can help you navigate the legal system and ensure your rights are protected. They will also be able to help you understand the various legal processes involved in your case, including dealing with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and pursuing litigation if necessary. Having an attorney on your side means you don’t have to face these challenges alone.
Understanding New York’s Pedestrian Laws
New York has specific laws in place to protect pedestrians, and understanding these laws is essential to your case. Pedestrian accidents are often subject to strict liability standards, meaning that the driver may be held responsible for the accident regardless of whether they were at fault. New York is a no-fault state, which means that your own insurance may cover some of your medical bills and lost wages after an accident, even if you were not at fault.
However, if your injuries are severe and exceed certain thresholds, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation. An attorney will help you understand these thresholds and whether it makes sense to pursue a personal injury claim.
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Dealing with Insurance Companies
One of the most challenging aspects of a pedestrian accident is dealing with insurance companies. After an accident, the insurance companies involved will likely begin their investigation, and they may attempt to settle the claim quickly. While a fast settlement might sound appealing, it is often in your best interest to wait until you have a clear understanding of the extent of your injuries and damages.
Insurance companies are known for offering low settlements, and without proper legal representation, you may end up accepting an amount that doesn’t fully cover your medical expenses or lost wages. A lawyer can help you understand the full value of your claim and ensure you don’t accept a settlement that doesn’t fairly compensate you for your injuries.
The Importance of Timely Action
In New York, you must act quickly to file a personal injury lawsuit after a pedestrian accident. The statute of limitations for most personal injury cases in New York is three years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
It’s important to remember that time is of the essence, and the sooner you seek legal help, the better your chances of securing a successful outcome. Your attorney will ensure all deadlines are met and that the necessary steps are taken to protect your rights.
Verdicts & Settlements
Recovering Compensation for Your Injuries
After a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The exact amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and other factors. A lawyer will help you gather evidence, document your damages, and present a strong case to maximize the compensation you receive.
If the accident resulted in permanent injuries or disability, your compensation may be significantly higher to account for the long-term impact on your life. Your attorney will ensure that all aspects of your recovery are considered when determining the value of your claim.
The Role of an Attorney in Your Case
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand the stress and confusion you may be feeling after a pedestrian accident. Our team is dedicated to providing the legal support you need to navigate through this difficult time. We will work with you to understand the details of your case, help you gather the necessary information, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Whether you are negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. We are here to guide you every step of the way and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you achieve a successful outcome. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.