Can Out-of-Pocket Expenses Be Recovered in a Personal Injury Settlement?

What Are Out-of-Pocket Expenses in a Personal Injury Case?

Quick Answer: Yes, out-of-pocket expenses like medical bills, transportation costs, and other injury-related expenses can often be recovered in a personal injury settlement in New York City. These costs are usually included to help cover the financial impact caused by the injury.

When considering the question, Can Out-of-Pocket Expenses Be Recovered in a Personal Injury Settlement?, it is important to first understand what out-of-pocket expenses are in a personal injury case. These expenses are costs that an injured person pays directly because of their injury. They are not covered or reimbursed by insurance or other sources at the time they are incurred.

Out-of-pocket expenses can include a wide range of costs related to the injury and recovery process. These are typically necessary and reasonable expenses that arise due to the accident or injury. Examples include:

• Medical Bills: Payments made for hospital visits, doctor consultations, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment that are not fully covered by insurance.
• Transportation Costs: Expenses for traveling to and from medical appointments, such as taxi fares, rideshare services, public transit, or mileage if using a personal vehicle.
• Home Care or Assistance: Costs for hiring help with daily tasks or personal care if the injury temporarily or permanently limits your ability to manage these on your own.
• Prescription Costs: Payments for prescription drugs needed due to the injury, especially if insurance does not cover the full amount.
• Medical Devices and Supplies: Items like crutches, braces, wheelchairs, or bandages that are necessary for treatment or recovery.
• Lost Wages or Income: Money lost because you could not work while recovering. While technically a separate category, lost income is often considered alongside out-of-pocket expenses in settlements.
• Other Miscellaneous Costs: This can include things like childcare expenses if you are unable to care for your children due to your injury, or costs to repair personal property damaged in the accident.

In the busy environment of New York City, these expenses can quickly add up. For example, traveling to multiple medical appointments across the city may involve significant transportation costs. Also, the higher cost of living and services in NYC can increase out-of-pocket spending related to recovery.

Understanding the full scope of your out-of-pocket expenses is important because they represent actual losses you have suffered. When you negotiate a personal injury settlement, these expenses are part of the financial damages you may seek to recover. Keeping detailed records and receipts of these expenses will be crucial for proving their amount and necessity during settlement discussions or court proceedings.

Can Out-of-Pocket Expenses Be Included in a Personal Injury Settlement?

Yes, out-of-pocket expenses can be included in a personal injury settlement in New York City, but there are important details to understand. Out-of-pocket expenses are costs that you pay directly because of your injury. These costs can add up and may include medical bills, transportation to doctor appointments, prescription medications, and other related expenses.

When you reach a settlement in a personal injury case, the goal is to cover all reasonable losses caused by the injury. This typically includes not only your medical expenses but also the out-of-pocket costs you have paid or will likely pay in the future. Including these expenses in your settlement helps ensure you are fairly compensated for the financial impact of your injury.

However, it is important to keep good records and proof of these expenses. Insurance companies and opposing parties will want to see receipts, bills, or statements that clearly show what you paid and why. Without proper documentation, it can be difficult to recover these costs in a settlement.

In New York, certain out-of-pocket expenses related to a personal injury claim may include:

• Medical bills: Payments for hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medical equipment.
• Prescription costs: Money spent on medications prescribed for your injury.
• Transportation costs: Expenses for traveling to and from medical appointments, including public transit, taxis, or mileage if you use your own vehicle.
• Home care or assistance: Costs for hiring help if your injury prevents you from performing daily tasks.
• Other related expenses: This can include things like medical supplies or costs for necessary home modifications.

It is also important to note that New York’s no-fault insurance system affects how some out-of-pocket expenses are recovered, especially in car accident cases. Your own insurance may cover many medical and related costs first, up to certain limits. If your expenses exceed those limits or if your injury meets the state’s “serious injury” threshold, you may pursue additional compensation through a personal injury settlement. This process can be complex, so careful documentation and legal advice are often needed.

In summary, out-of-pocket expenses are generally recoverable in a personal injury settlement in New York City if they are reasonable, necessary, and properly documented. Including these costs in your settlement helps address the full financial burden caused by your injury. If you have questions about how to track and claim these expenses, it is wise to consult with a personal injury lawyer who understands the specifics of New York law and insurance practices.

Common Types of Out-of-Pocket Expenses in New York City Personal Injury Claims

In New York City personal injury claims, out-of-pocket expenses refer to the costs you pay directly because of an injury caused by someone else’s negligence. These expenses can add up quickly and may be included in your personal injury settlement if properly documented and proven.

Here are some common types of out-of-pocket expenses that people in NYC often face after a personal injury:

• Medical Bills: This includes payments for hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and medical equipment like crutches or wheelchairs. Even co-pays and deductibles count as out-of-pocket expenses.
• Transportation Costs: Traveling to and from medical appointments can be costly, especially in NYC where public transportation fares, taxi rides, or rideshare services add up. Parking fees near hospitals are also part of these expenses.
• Home Care and Assistance: If your injury limits your ability to perform daily tasks, you might pay for help with household chores, childcare, or personal care services. These costs are considered out-of-pocket expenses.
• Lost Wages and Income: If your injury causes you to miss work, the money you lose is an important expense. This also includes reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job or must work fewer hours.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Costs for physical therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological counseling that you pay for directly are out-of-pocket expenses.
• Medical Supplies: Items such as bandages, wound care products, or special mattresses purchased to aid recovery are included.
• Property Damage Related to Injury: Sometimes, injuries cause damage to personal items (like clothes or glasses) that you must replace yourself.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: These can include things like special dietary needs, adaptive devices, or travel expenses for out-of-town treatment.

Living in New York City can make some of these expenses higher due to the cost of living and the urban environment. For example, transportation costs might be more significant because of the reliance on taxis or public transit, and parking fees near medical facilities can be expensive.

Keeping careful records and receipts of all these expenses is crucial. This documentation helps prove the exact amount you spent because of your injury. When negotiating a personal injury settlement, having detailed proof of your out-of-pocket costs can improve your chances of recovering these expenses.

How New York Law Affects Recovery of Out-of-Pocket Expenses

New York law plays a significant role in determining whether and how out-of-pocket expenses can be recovered in a personal injury settlement. The state’s legal framework, including its no-fault insurance system and personal injury rules, shapes the process and limits for recovering these costs.

No-Fault Insurance System: New York is a no-fault state for car accidents. This means that after a motor vehicle accident, your own insurance company generally pays for your medical bills and certain other expenses, no matter who caused the crash. This coverage is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP). It usually covers:

• Medical expenses related to the accident
• Lost wages if you cannot work due to your injury
• Other necessary expenses, such as household services you can’t perform

Because of this system, many out-of-pocket expenses from car accidents are first covered by your own insurance. However, PIP coverage has limits, often up to $50,000 per person. If your expenses exceed this limit, or if your injuries meet New York’s “serious injury” threshold, you may be able to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party.

Serious Injury Threshold: New York law restricts when you can sue for damages beyond what no-fault insurance covers. To recover more than out-of-pocket expenses, such as pain and suffering, your injury must qualify as “serious.” Examples include:

• Fractures or broken bones
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring
• Loss of a body part or function
• Significant limitations on your daily activities

If your injury meets this threshold, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to recover out-of-pocket expenses not covered by no-fault insurance, along with other damages.

Proving Out-of-Pocket Expenses Under New York Law: To recover these costs, you must clearly document your expenses. This includes keeping bills, receipts, and records of payments for medical care, medications, transportation, and other accident-related costs. New York courts and insurance companies expect precise proof to verify your claims.

Limitations and Exceptions: New York law also sets certain limits on what expenses can be recovered. For example, you cannot recover expenses that were not reasonable or related to the injury. Additionally, some types of accidents—like motorcycle crashes—are treated differently under New York law and may affect your ability to recover out-of-pocket costs.

Impact of Insurance Company Practices: Insurance companies in New York may dispute or deny claims for some out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding how New York law applies helps you challenge improper denials and negotiate a fair settlement.

In summary, New York law allows recovery of out-of-pocket expenses in personal injury settlements, but this recovery is influenced by the no-fault system, injury severity, and proper documentation. Knowing these legal rules can help you protect your rights and seek fair compensation after an injury in New York City.

Proving Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses After a Personal Injury

To successfully recover out-of-pocket expenses in a personal injury settlement, you must clearly prove these costs. Out-of-pocket expenses are the actual money you spent because of the injury. Insurance companies and courts require solid evidence to include these expenses in your settlement.

Here are key steps to prove your out-of-pocket expenses after a personal injury:

• Keep Detailed Records: Save all receipts, bills, and invoices related to your injury. This includes medical bills, prescriptions, transportation costs, and any other payments you made because of the injury.
• Organize Your Expenses: Group your expenses by category, such as medical costs, travel expenses, or household help. This makes it easier to present the information clearly to insurance adjusters or in court.
• Maintain a Log of Payments: Keep a written or digital record of when and how you paid each expense. Note the date, amount, and purpose of each payment to show a clear timeline.
• Use Official Documents: Medical records, pharmacy receipts, and repair bills are strong proof. These official documents have more weight than personal notes or estimates.
• Document Additional Costs: Some expenses may not be obvious, such as transportation to doctor appointments or hiring help for household chores. Keep receipts or records for these as well.

In New York City, where medical and living costs can be high, detailed proof of your expenses is especially important. For example, if you took a taxi to multiple doctor visits because of your injury, keeping those receipts will help show the true cost you faced.

Why Is Proof So Important?

Insurance companies want to verify that your claimed expenses are real and related to the injury. Without proper proof, they may deny or reduce your claim for out-of-pocket costs. Courts also require clear evidence to award these expenses in a settlement or judgment.

Additional Tips:

1. Request copies of all medical bills and payments from your healthcare providers.
2. Keep a mileage log if you use your car for medical trips, noting the date, purpose, and miles traveled.
3. Save any correspondence with insurance companies about your expenses.
4. If you pay for services like physical therapy or counseling out of pocket, get written statements or receipts.

By carefully documenting and organizing your out-of-pocket expenses, you strengthen your personal injury claim in New York City. This clear proof helps ensure these costs are considered fairly in your settlement discussions.

If you have questions about how to gather or present proof of your expenses, contacting a personal injury attorney can provide guidance tailored to your situation. For assistance, you may call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398.

The Role of Medical Bills and Receipts in Settlements

Medical bills and receipts play a crucial role in personal injury settlements, especially when you are trying to recover out-of-pocket expenses after an accident in New York City. These documents show the actual costs you have paid or owe for medical care related to your injury. Insurance companies and the responsible parties rely heavily on this proof to decide how much compensation to offer.

Here’s why medical bills and receipts are important in your settlement:

• Proof of Expenses: Medical bills provide clear evidence of the treatment you received. They list the services, dates of treatment, and charges, which help confirm the amount of money you spent out of your own pocket.
• Establishing Reasonableness: Insurance companies want to make sure that the expenses you claim are reasonable and necessary. Detailed bills and receipts show that your medical care was related to the injury and not unrelated or excessive.
• Tracking Payment Status: Receipts prove which bills you have already paid. This distinction is important because some settlements cover only amounts you have actually paid, while others may include bills you still owe.
• Supporting Lost Wage and Other Claims: Medical documentation often ties into other out-of-pocket costs, such as transportation to appointments or prescriptions. Keeping detailed receipts for these expenses helps support your overall claim.

In New York City, where medical costs can be high, having organized and complete medical records, bills, and receipts can make a significant difference in the settlement process. Without this documentation, insurance companies may dispute or undervalue your out-of-pocket expenses.

To help your case, keep these tips in mind:

1. Save all medical bills and receipts: This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, prescriptions, and medical equipment.
2. Keep copies of payments made: If you paid by check, credit card, or cash, keep those receipts as proof.
3. Request itemized bills: These provide a clear breakdown of services and costs, which strengthens your claim.
4. Organize your documents: Arrange bills and receipts by date and type to make it easier to present to insurance companies or lawyers.
5. Consult your medical providers: If you have unpaid bills, ask if they can provide statements or payment plans that clarify your financial responsibility.

In summary, medical bills and receipts are key pieces of evidence that show the actual financial impact of your injury. They help ensure that your out-of-pocket expenses are recognized and fairly included in your personal injury settlement. If you face challenges gathering or presenting this documentation, consider contacting The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for guidance on how to protect your rights and recover the expenses you are owed.

Can Lost Wages and Travel Costs Be Recovered Alongside Out-of-Pocket Expenses?

Yes, lost wages and travel costs can often be recovered alongside out-of-pocket expenses in a personal injury settlement in New York City. These types of damages are considered part of your economic losses, which means they represent actual money you have lost or spent because of the injury.

Lost wages refer to the income you miss while you are unable to work due to your injury. This includes:

• Time off from your regular job during recovery
• Reduced hours or pay if you cannot work full-time
• Loss of bonuses or commissions linked to your work

To recover lost wages, you will need to provide documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, or statements from your employer that confirm your income before and after the injury.

Travel costs are expenses you incur traveling to and from medical appointments or treatment related to your injury. This can include:

• Public transportation fares (subway, bus, taxi)
• Parking fees near hospitals or clinics
• Gas and mileage if you use your own vehicle
• Rideshare or car service fares

It’s important to keep receipts, mileage logs, or other records to prove these travel expenses.

In New York, these amounts are typically included in your total personal injury settlement or award along with other out-of-pocket costs like medical bills and rehabilitation expenses. However, the recovery depends on clear proof that these losses were necessary and directly caused by the accident.

It’s also worth noting that New York’s no-fault insurance system covers some lost wages and medical travel costs up to certain limits. Beyond those limits, or if your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold, you may be able to recover additional amounts through a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

In summary, lost wages and travel expenses are important parts of your financial losses after an injury. Collecting proof and understanding how they fit with out-of-pocket expenses can help you recover a fair settlement. If you have questions about your specific situation, it can be helpful to speak with a personal injury attorney who is familiar with New York City cases.

Challenges in Recovering Out-of-Pocket Expenses in NYC Personal Injury Cases

Recovering out-of-pocket expenses in personal injury cases in New York City can be difficult for several reasons. These challenges often arise because of the complexity of insurance rules, legal requirements, and the nature of the expenses themselves.

1. Strict Documentation Requirements
Insurance companies and courts require clear proof of all out-of-pocket expenses. This means you must keep detailed receipts, bills, and records showing what you paid and why. Without proper documentation, it can be hard to prove the expenses are related to your injury.

2. No-Fault Insurance Limits
New York is a no-fault state for car accidents. Your own insurance covers medical bills and lost wages up to certain limits, regardless of fault. However, no-fault insurance does not cover all expenses, and if your costs exceed these limits, recovering the extra amount can be complicated. You may need to prove serious injury to pursue additional damages.

3. Disputes Over What Expenses Are “Reasonable and Necessary”
Insurance companies often challenge whether certain expenses were reasonable or necessary for your recovery. For example, some may question charges for alternative treatments, travel to medical appointments, or household help. These disputes require evidence and sometimes expert opinions to resolve.

4. Difficulty Recovering Indirect Costs
Out-of-pocket expenses can include indirect costs like transportation, childcare, or home modifications. These expenses are often harder to prove and value. Insurers may deny or reduce these claims if they are not clearly documented or directly linked to the injury.

5. Proving Causation
You must show that the expenses were caused by the injury from the accident. If the insurance company argues that the expenses were for unrelated health issues or pre-existing conditions, it can reduce or deny your claim. This requires careful medical records and documentation.

6. Time Limits and Deadlines
In New York, there are strict deadlines for filing no-fault claims and personal injury lawsuits. Missing these deadlines can mean losing the right to recover your expenses. Managing these time limits while dealing with injuries can be stressful and challenging.

7. Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They may delay processing claims, request excessive documentation, or dispute the amounts claimed. This can make recovering out-of-pocket expenses frustrating and slow.

8. Complex Legal Thresholds
To recover certain damages beyond no-fault insurance, New York law requires showing a “serious injury.” Meeting this threshold is not always easy, especially for moderate injuries. Without meeting this requirement, your ability to recover additional out-of-pocket costs may be limited.

Understanding these challenges can help you better prepare for the process of recovering out-of-pocket expenses in a New York City personal injury settlement. Keeping detailed records, acting quickly, and knowing your rights are key steps. If you face difficulty recovering these expenses, consulting with a personal injury attorney can provide guidance tailored to your case.

How Insurance Companies Handle Out-of-Pocket Expense Claims

Insurance companies in New York City handle out-of-pocket expense claims with close scrutiny. They aim to pay only what is necessary and supported by clear proof. This means they will carefully review all submitted documents and may challenge expenses that seem excessive or unrelated to the injury.

Here is how insurance companies typically approach out-of-pocket expense claims:

• Requesting Detailed Documentation: Insurers require receipts, bills, and records to verify expenses. Without proper proof, they may deny or reduce reimbursement.
• Reviewing Medical Necessity: They examine whether medical expenses are reasonable and directly related to the injury from the accident. Treatments or purchases unrelated to the injury might be excluded.
• Limiting Coverage Based on Policy Terms: Insurance policies and New York’s no-fault laws set limits on what expenses are covered, such as caps on medical bills or lost wages. Insurers will apply these limits strictly.
• Questioning Non-Medical Expenses: Costs like transportation, childcare, or home care may be scrutinized more closely. Insurers may ask for additional proof or explanation of how these expenses relate to the injury.
• Negotiating Settlements: Insurance companies often try to negotiate settlements that minimize payouts. They may offer lump sums that cover some but not all out-of-pocket costs.

In New York City, the no-fault insurance system affects how these claims are handled after a car accident. Your own insurance company generally pays your medical bills and certain other expenses up to $50,000, regardless of who caused the crash. However, if your out-of-pocket expenses exceed these limits, or if your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold, you may seek additional compensation from the at-fault party’s insurer.

It is common for insurance companies to delay or deny out-of-pocket expense claims initially. They may request repeated documentation or question the necessity of certain charges. This can make it difficult to recover all your expenses without legal help.

Understanding how insurance companies handle these claims can prepare you to respond effectively. Keeping organized records, promptly submitting all required paperwork, and knowing your rights under New York law are important steps. If you face challenges, consulting with a personal injury attorney can help ensure your out-of-pocket expenses are fairly considered during settlement discussions.

What to Do If Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses Are Denied

If your out-of-pocket expenses are denied during a personal injury settlement in New York City, it can be frustrating and confusing. However, there are important steps you can take to address the denial and work toward recovering these costs.

1. Review the Denial Explanation Carefully

Insurance companies or defendants must provide a reason for denying your out-of-pocket expenses. Common reasons include missing receipts, expenses not related to the injury, or disputes over the necessity of the costs. Understanding the exact reason helps you know what to fix or clarify.

2. Gather and Organize Documentation

Collect all evidence supporting your expenses. This includes:

• Receipts and invoices for medical bills, prescriptions, travel, and other related costs.
• Medical records showing the treatments or services you received.
• Proof of payment such as credit card statements or canceled checks.
• Notes or logs detailing why certain expenses were necessary (for example, travel to medical appointments).

Having clear, organized proof strengthens your case when disputing the denial.

3. Contact the Insurance Company or Opposing Party

Reach out to the insurance adjuster or the party responsible for the denial. Ask for details about what is missing or unclear. Sometimes, providing additional documents or explanations can resolve the issue without further conflict.

4. File an Appeal or Formal Dispute

If informal communication does not work, you may need to file a formal appeal. Many insurance policies and settlement agreements include procedures for appealing denied claims. Follow these steps carefully and submit all required documentation.

5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

If your out-of-pocket expenses continue to be denied, speaking with a personal injury lawyer experienced in New York City cases can be helpful. An attorney can:

• Review your case and the denial reasons.
• Help gather and organize evidence.
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
• Explain your legal rights and options for further action.

Legal guidance can improve your chances of recovering the expenses you are owed.

6. Keep Detailed Records Moving Forward

Whether or not your expenses are denied now, keep thorough records of all costs related to your injury. This will be invaluable if disputes arise later or if you decide to pursue litigation.

7. Understand New York’s No-Fault and Personal Injury Laws

New York’s no-fault insurance system covers many immediate medical expenses and lost wages after a car accident. However, it has limits and specific rules about what can be recovered. Knowing these rules can help you recognize when your denial might be unfair or when additional claims are possible.

Summary

If your out-of-pocket expenses in a personal injury settlement are denied, don’t ignore the issue. Review the denial reasons, gather proof, communicate with the insurance company, and consider legal help. Taking these steps can protect your rights and increase the chance of recovering the costs you have paid due to your injury.

If you need assistance understanding or disputing denied expenses in a New York City personal injury case, you can contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a consultation.

When to Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer About Your Expenses

If you have suffered a personal injury in New York City and have out-of-pocket expenses, it is important to know when to seek help from a personal injury lawyer. While some expenses may be covered by insurance or settled quickly, there are times when legal guidance can make a significant difference in recovering your costs.

You should consider contacting a personal injury lawyer about your expenses if:

• Your insurance company denies or delays payment for medical bills, prescription costs, or other necessary expenses related to your injury.
• You are unsure which expenses can be included in your personal injury settlement or how to properly document them.
• Your out-of-pocket costs are substantial —for example, if you have paid for ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or medical equipment.
• You have lost wages or had to pay for travel to medical appointments and want to understand if these costs can be recovered along with your out-of-pocket expenses.
• The insurance settlement offer seems too low and does not fairly cover your expenses and losses.
• Your injury is serious enough to consider a lawsuit outside of the no-fault insurance system, which often requires legal advice to navigate.
• You want help gathering and organizing documentation such as medical bills, receipts, and proof of lost income to support your claim.

Personal injury lawyers have experience working with insurance companies and understand New York laws that affect your ability to recover out-of-pocket expenses. They can help ensure that all eligible costs are included in your settlement and that you meet important deadlines.

In New York City, where medical and living expenses can be high, even small out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly. Early legal advice can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering these expenses fully.

If you are facing challenges with your expenses after a personal injury, calling a personal injury lawyer can provide clarity and support. For assistance, you can reach The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 to discuss your specific situation and understand your options.

Next Steps for Recovering Out-of-Pocket Expenses in a NYC Personal Injury Settlement

After an accident in New York City, taking clear and organized steps is important to recover your out-of-pocket expenses in a personal injury settlement. Here are practical next steps to help you protect your rights and maximize your recovery:

1. Gather and Organize Documentation: Keep all receipts, bills, and proof of payment related to your injury. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, transportation expenses, and any other out-of-pocket costs you have paid. Well-organized records make it easier to prove your expenses during settlement negotiations.
2. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. In New York, timely notification is necessary to file a no-fault claim, which covers many out-of-pocket costs related to medical care and lost wages.
3. File a No-Fault Insurance Claim: Since New York is a no-fault state, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage should cover reasonable medical expenses and lost income up to $50,000. Submit your claim with supporting documents to your insurer as soon as possible.
4. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: An attorney familiar with New York personal injury laws can help you understand your rights and guide you through the claims process. They can assist in identifying all recoverable out-of-pocket expenses and ensure these costs are included in your settlement demands.
5. Keep Detailed Records of Lost Wages and Travel Costs: If you miss work or have travel expenses related to medical treatment, track these carefully. Provide pay stubs, employer letters, or mileage logs to support your claim for reimbursement.
6. Communicate Clearly with Insurance Adjusters: When negotiating a settlement, clearly itemize your out-of-pocket expenses. Provide copies of your receipts and bills to back up your claims. Avoid accepting offers before ensuring your expenses are fully accounted for.
7. Prepare for Possible Disputes: Insurance companies may challenge some expenses or delay payments. If your out-of-pocket costs are denied or undervalued, document all communications and consider legal assistance to advocate for fair compensation.
8. Understand the Settlement Agreement: Before agreeing to any settlement, carefully review the terms to confirm that all your out-of-pocket expenses are included. Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot ask for more money later.

Following these steps can help ensure you recover as much of your out-of-pocket expenses as possible after a personal injury in New York City. If you need help understanding your claim or negotiating with insurance companies, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a consultation. We are here to assist you through this process with clear information and support.