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Queens Car Accident Lawyers
Car Accident Experts with offices in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan & The Bronx
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Queens, the consequences can be life-changing. From medical bills to emotional trauma, the fallout can be overwhelming. That’s why you need a dedicated and experienced team of Queens Car Accident Lawyers to guide you through the complex legal maze and help you secure the compensation you deserve. At The Orlow Firm, we offer unparalleled legal representation to ensure that you’re not alone in this difficult time.
Table of Contents
ToggleKey Takeaways:
- Expert legal guidance can maximize your car accident claim.
- Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
- Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation
How The Orlow Firm Maximizes Your Car Accident Case
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. At The Orlow Firm, we specialize in car accident cases in Queens and across New York City. Our extensive experience and client-centered approach ensure that we are well-equipped to handle the unique challenges of your case. Here’s how we can help you maximize your claim:
Expert Legal Team: Our team of Queens Car Accident Lawyers is highly knowledgeable and experienced in personal injury law. We stay up-to-date with the latest legal precedents and regulations, ensuring that you have a robust case built on the strongest possible foundation.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Prompt and thorough investigation is crucial for substantiating your claim. We collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to collect evidence that proves the other party’s liability and the extent of your damages.
Aggressive Negotiation: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize your compensation. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will aggressively represent your interests to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.
Filing and Litigation: If negotiations don’t yield satisfactory results, we are prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court. Our attorneys have a strong track record in litigation, consistently securing favorable verdicts for our clients.
Claim Maximization: One of our primary goals is to secure the maximum possible compensation for your losses, which may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We meticulously calculate these costs and fight for every penny you deserve.
Personalized Service: Every client’s case is unique, and we treat it as such. We provide personalized legal counsel tailored to the specifics of your situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.
Regular Updates and Communication: We understand the importance of transparent and consistent communication. You will be regularly updated on the progress of your case, and our attorneys are always available to answer any questions you may have.
No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay us only if we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we concentrate on getting you the compensation you deserve.
Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation. Discuss your case with our expert Queens Car Accident Lawyers to understand how we can help you secure the compensation you rightly deserve.
What Victims in Queens Car Accidents Can Be Compensated For
In the unfortunate event of a car accident in Queens, New York, it’s crucial to understand what types of compensation you may be eligible for. The Orlow Firm specializes in car accident cases and strives to secure the maximum compensation for our clients. Below, we outline the various types of damages you can potentially recover:
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses: These can include immediate emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and future medical care related to your injuries.
Lost Wages: If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost wages. This also includes any potential future earnings you might lose as a result of long-term disabilities.
Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Rehabilitation Costs: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other types of rehabilitation services fall under this category.
Out-of-pocket Expenses: These are any miscellaneous expenses directly related to the accident or your injuries, such as transportation to medical appointments or the cost of medical equipment.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering: This encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress you experience as a result of your injuries. It can include conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This refers to your diminished ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, and other aspects of life that were affected by your injuries.
Emotional Distress: Emotional or psychological trauma, such as increased anxiety or sleeplessness, can be compensated under this category.
Loss of Consortium: This is relevant if the quality of your relationship with your spouse or family members has been negatively impacted due to the accident and resulting injuries.
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If your injuries have led to a permanent disability or have disfigured you in some way, you may be eligible for additional compensation.
It’s crucial to note that New York follows a “no-fault” insurance system for car accidents, meaning that your own insurance will typically cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. However, for serious injuries, you may step outside of the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
Our experienced Queens Car Accident Lawyers at The Orlow Firm can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system to ensure you secure all the compensation you’re entitled to. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss the specifics of your case.
Who Is Legally Liable in Queens Car Accidents
Determining who is legally responsible in a car accident in Queens or anywhere else in New York City involves a complex evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the incident. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers specialize in identifying the parties liable for your injuries and damages.
In most cases, the driver who is found to be at fault for the accident is primarily responsible. Negligence, such as speeding, running a red light, or distracted driving, often leads to liability. However, liability is not always straightforward and can sometimes be shared among multiple parties.
For instance, if a driver is operating a company vehicle at the time of the accident, the employer could potentially share in the liability, especially if the employer was negligent in hiring or supervising the employee. In cases involving commercial trucks, the trucking company, or even the manufacturer of faulty truck parts, could be held responsible.
Additionally, government entities could bear some responsibility if the accident was caused due to poorly maintained roads or malfunctioning traffic signals. In some instances, bars or restaurants could be held accountable for accidents caused by drunk drivers whom they overserved.
It’s also worth noting that New York operates under a “comparative negligence” system. This means that even if you are partially responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages, although your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
Thorough investigation and evidence gathering are crucial for establishing liability. Our legal team collaborates with accident reconstruction experts, examines police reports, and reviews surveillance footage when available, all aimed at identifying the responsible parties.
Accurately determining who is legally responsible is a critical aspect of your car accident claim in Queens, as it has a direct impact on the compensation you could receive. The Orlow Firm’s extensive experience and investigative capabilities are vital in this regard. To discuss the specifics of your case, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.
Common Injuries Sustained in Car Accidents
Car accidents in Queens and throughout New York City can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions. The type of injury often depends on various factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, and whether the occupants were wearing seat belts. Regardless of the severity, any injury sustained in a car accident can have significant ramifications, affecting your ability to work, enjoy life, and even perform everyday activities. Below, we outline some of the most common types of injuries our Queens Car Accident Lawyers encounter in their practice.
- Whiplash: This is a common injury in rear-end collisions, affecting the neck and upper back. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward.
- Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often requiring long-term care.
- Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and other bones can easily break upon impact in a car accident.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility and quality of life.
- Internal Injuries: Organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys can be damaged, sometimes requiring immediate surgical intervention.
- Lacerations and Abrasions: Broken glass or metal shards can cause severe cuts that may require stitches or even surgical repair.
- Burns: These can occur from explosions, fires, or hot surfaces within the vehicle, leading to severe pain and scarring.
- Psychological Injuries: Car accidents can result in emotional and psychological trauma, including conditions like PTSD and anxiety.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscles, ligaments, and tendons can be stretched or torn, requiring physical therapy or even surgery for full recovery.
Recovering from any of these injuries can be a long and arduous process, often involving extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and the possible need for lifelong care. Beyond the physical toll, there’s also an emotional and financial burden to consider. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to cover the extensive costs associated with these injuries. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss how we can assist you in your recovery journey.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Queens
In Queens and the greater New York City area, car accidents can occur under a multitude of circumstances. At The Orlow Firm, we’ve represented clients involved in a wide array of scenarios, each presenting its own set of challenges and complexities.
Rear-End Collisions: One of the most common types of car accidents, often caused by one vehicle following another too closely or failing to stop in time.
Head-On Collisions: Among the most devastating and often fatal accidents, usually resulting from a vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic.
T-Bone Accidents: Occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another, commonly happening at intersections where drivers may ignore stop signs or red lights.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Involving three or more vehicles, these accidents are particularly complicated when it comes to determining fault and liability.
Hit and Run: Instances where the at-fault driver flees the scene, making it challenging to hold anyone accountable without sufficient evidence or eyewitness accounts.
Pedestrian Accidents: When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, often occurring in crosswalks or along busy streets.
Bicycle Accidents: Similar to pedestrian accidents, these involve a motor vehicle colliding with a cyclist, often resulting in severe injuries given the lack of protection for the cyclist.
Motorcycle Accidents: Unique in that motorcyclists are far more exposed and vulnerable than occupants of cars, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
Uber/Lyft Accidents: Ridesharing services add another layer of complexity when it comes to insurance and liability, given that multiple policies may be involved.
Commercial Truck Accidents: These can involve big rigs, delivery trucks, or any other commercial vehicle and often result in severe damage and injuries due to the size and weight of the truck.
Drunk Driving Accidents: Involving an intoxicated driver, these cases often result in criminal charges in addition to personal injury claims.
Understanding the unique aspects of each accident scenario is crucial for building a strong case. Whether you were a driver, a passenger, or a pedestrian, our experienced Queens Car Accident Lawyers at The Orlow Firm can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate the complexities of your specific situation. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your case in detail.
Relevant Laws for Car Accidents in New York
In New York State, and particularly in Queens, various laws come into play when dealing with car accidents. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident, and at The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers are well-versed in navigating the legal landscape.
No-Fault Insurance Laws: New York is a no-fault state, meaning that your own insurance company will cover your medical bills and lost wages up to a certain point, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
Comparative Negligence: New York follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Vehicle and Traffic Law: Various sections of New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law, such as rules about yielding, right-of-way, and speed limits, can be cited as the basis for establishing a driver’s negligence in an accident.
Insurance Requirements: New York State law requires all motor vehicles to have a certain minimum amount of liability insurance to cover any damage or injuries caused to others in an accident.
Dram Shop Laws: These laws can make bars and restaurants liable if they serve alcohol to someone who then causes a drunk-driving accident.
Cell Phone and Texting Laws: Using a cell phone without a hands-free device or texting while driving is illegal in New York and can be used as evidence of negligence if a driver involved in an accident was using a phone at the time.
Child Passenger Safety Laws: The state has specific laws concerning child safety seats and seat belt use for younger passengers, and failure to comply can result in liability if a child is injured in an accident.
Commercial Vehicle Regulations: If your accident involved a commercial vehicle like a truck or bus, federal and state regulations about vehicle maintenance and driver rest periods may be relevant to your case.
Understanding these laws can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident case in Queens. With The Orlow Firm on your side, you’ll have experienced Queens Car Accident Lawyers who can apply these laws effectively to advocate for your best interests. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss how these laws pertain to your specific circumstances.
New York Car Accident Statute of Limitations
In New York, including Queens, the statute of limitations plays a crucial role in personal injury cases arising from car accidents. The statute of limitations sets a deadline by which you must file a lawsuit, otherwise, you may lose your right to seek legal recourse. For personal injury claims related to car accidents, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can have severe consequences, essentially barring you from recovering any compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other losses.
There are some exceptions to this general rule. For example, if the person injured is a minor, the statute of limitations may not begin until they turn 18 years old. Also, if you are seeking to file a claim against a government entity, the rules and timelines can be significantly different and more restrictive. In those cases, you might need to file a notice of claim within a much shorter period, sometimes as brief as 90 days following the accident.
Given the complexity and importance of the statute of limitations, it’s vital to consult with qualified legal professionals as soon as possible after your accident. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers have extensive experience in navigating these timelines and can guide you through the process to ensure you don’t miss any crucial deadlines. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to find out how we can help you meet these essential legal requirements.
Prevention Methods for Avoiding Car Accidents in Queens
Accidents on the roads of Queens and throughout New York City can happen in a split second, often with devastating consequences. While it’s true that some accidents are unavoidable, many can be prevented through cautious and responsible driving. Prevention starts with the basics, such as always wearing a seatbelt and ensuring that all vehicle safety features, like airbags and antilock braking systems, are in working order. Proper maintenance of your vehicle can also go a long way in preventing accidents; this includes regular checks on brakes, tires, and lights.
One of the major culprits in car accidents is distracted driving. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or even adjusting the radio, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to a catastrophic accident. New York has strict laws against using handheld devices while driving, so it’s not just safe practice but also a legal requirement to use hands-free options.
Impaired driving remains a significant concern. Alcohol, drugs, and even some prescription medications can impair your ability to drive safely. If you plan on consuming substances that might impair your driving ability, it’s crucial to arrange for alternative transportation like taxis, rideshare services, or designated drivers.
Speeding is another significant issue. The speed limits are set for a reason, and they are particularly important in urban areas like Queens where pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists share the road. Adhering to the speed limit and adjusting your speed during adverse weather conditions can prevent many accidents.
Lastly, road rage and aggressive driving can be as dangerous as any of the above issues. It’s important to remain calm and composed, even when faced with other drivers who may not be exercising the same level of care. In such instances, it’s safer to maintain a distance from the aggressive driver rather than engage in a confrontational manner.
At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers strongly advocate for safe driving practices, not just as a way to avoid legal repercussions but as a method for protecting yourself, your loved ones, and others on the road. If, despite all precautions, you find yourself involved in an accident, we are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape that follows. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your specific case.
Additional Resources for Queens Car Accident Victims
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and stressful. To assist you, we’ve compiled a list of valuable resources that can help you understand the complexities surrounding car accidents in Queens. For personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.
- New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): The DMV website offers comprehensive information on vehicle registration, driver’s licenses, and rules of the road. Knowing the law can help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a driver.
- New York City’s Vision Zero: This initiative is aimed at reducing traffic accidents and fatalities. Their resources can provide insights into the city’s efforts to make the streets safer.
- New York State Insurance Department: This website provides vital information about insurance requirements and consumer rights in the state of New York, particularly useful if you’re having disputes with your insurance company.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): If your accident involved a commercial vehicle, the FMCSA website has regulations and guidelines about trucking and commercial transportation safety.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The NHTSA website provides an array of resources on vehicle safety, distracted driving, and other issues relevant to car accidents.
Remember, while these resources are useful, they can’t replace expert legal advice tailored to your situation. To discuss your specific case and how The Orlow Firm can help you, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I partly contributed to the accident?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you’re partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid when you win your case.
How long does it take to resolve such cases?
The duration can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case and other factors. It’s essential to consult with our attorneys for a more precise timeline.
What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. For an accurate assessment, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
The sooner, the better. Quick legal intervention can help preserve evidence, witness testimonies, and can also help you avoid missing the statute of limitations.
Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, going to court may be necessary.
If you have other questions or need personalized advice, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.
Why Choose The Orlow Firm as Your Queens Car Accident Lawyers
Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Car Accident Lawyers are committed to fighting tirelessly for your rights. With years of experience, a deep understanding of New York laws, and a client-centric approach, we go above and beyond to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Our track record speaks volumes about our expertise in handling complex car accident cases efficiently and effectively. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until we win your case. For expert legal assistance that puts your needs first, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.