After a car wreck, there’s no need to worry when you call Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC. Our team of Long Island car accident lawyers will handle all the details while you focus on recovering from any injuries. We can help you navigate the legal process and secure a fair settlement.
Our New York car accident law firm has decades of experience negotiating with insurance companies to get fair compensation for the victims of injuries. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Why Car Accident Victims on Long Island Need Legal Support After an Accident
Car accident victims on Long Island often face a long and challenging road to recovery, both physically and emotionally. The aftermath of a serious car accident can be overwhelming, with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering associated with the injuries you sustained.
Coping with these difficulties while simultaneously trying to recover physically can be an overwhelming experience. Focusing on recovery should be the top priority for car accident victims, but unfortunately, the financial pressures and legal complexities that follow an accident can be a major source of stress.
Dealing with insurance companies, filing claims, and navigating the legal system can be time-consuming and confusing, especially for those who are already struggling with the challenges of healing and moving forward with their lives. Our Long Island personal injury lawyers can give you the support you need to put the accident behind you.
Results Our Car Accident Lawyers Have Achieved For Accident Victims
Our Long Island car accident lawyers aim for appropriate compensation in each car accident case we handle. Whether that means advocating for a high payout during settlement negotiations or representing you at trial, our law firm is prepared to fight for you.
We work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve for your losses. Here are some of the results we’ve achieved for our clients who were injured in vehicle collisions:
| Award Amount | Type of Case |
|---|---|
| $1,500,000 | Client was a passenger in vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver and as a result suffered multiple injuries, including traumatic brain injury. |
| $850,000 | Client was traveling on the Long Island Expressway when he was rear-ended and pushed into the car ahead of him. |
| $445,000 | Client’s vehicle was struck by another vehicle when turning left into a private lot. |
| $395,000 | Client’s vehicle became disabled on the New York State Thruway and, after stopping to put his flashers on, was rear-ended at a high rate of speed. |
| $300,000 | Client’s car was struck by a vehicle which had not stopped at a stop sign. |
We will fight for your rights as if you were a member of our own family, and that is our promise! You can read more about the results we have achieved for our clients here.
How Negligence Causes Car Accidents on Long Island, New York
Suffolk and Nassau Counties experience a high number of car accidents each year. The most common cause of car accidents is negligence.
With so many drivers texting while driving, speeding, and breaking other driving laws, car accident lawsuits are common. Some of the common causes of motor vehicle crashes on Long Island include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, and eating behind the wheel can lead to serious crashes.
- Following too closely: Many rear-end collisions are caused by a tailgating driver being unable to slow down when the car in front stops short.
- Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit or travel too fast for conditions are at an increased risk of a collision.
- Drunk driving: Driving under the influence can affect vision, comprehension, reaction time, and coordination.
- Defective roads: If you hit a pothole or swerve to avoid an obstruction in the road, you can lose control of your vehicle.
- Illegal passing: When you pass another vehicle in an unsafe manner, it can cause an accident.
If you’ve been injured and you believe another driver’s negligence was to blame, our team of car accident lawyers on Long Island can fight for your rights.
Long Island Car Accident Lawyer FAQs
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Long Island Car Accident Lawyer?
At Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, we offer a completely free legal consultation online or in person. During the consultation, we’ll ask for more information about the accident, and you will learn more about our services and experience.
It will cost you nothing upfront or out-of-pocket to hire us because we work on a contingency fee basis. Until we win or settle your case, you do not owe us anything.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in New York?
Every state has a time limit for how long you have to file a lawsuit for a car accident, known as the “statute of limitations.” In New York, the statute of limitations is generally three years to file a car accident case and two years to file a wrongful death claim in cases of fatal auto accidents. These time limits are outlined in CVP § 214 and EPT § 5-4.1.
There are some exceptions to this time limit, though they are rare. Your Long Island car accident attorney can tell you the time limit that applies to your case and make sure you have your documentation filed within the deadline.
Don’t delay your fight for compensation and risk losing the opportunity to get justice. Contact Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC through our online contact form or call us today.
Do I Need to Call the Police for a Minor Accident in NY?
In New York, it’s generally advisable to call the police for any accident, even if it seems minor. While state law only requires you to report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000, having an official police report can be invaluable for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
The police can document the scene, gather witness statements, and provide an unbiased account of the incident. Additionally, it’s important to note that you may want to consult with a lawyer even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured at the time of the accident. Some injuries, particularly soft tissue injuries or concussions, may not be immediately apparent and can develop or worsen in the days or weeks following the accident.
A Long Island car accident lawyer can help protect your rights, guide you through the claims process, and ensure you don’t unknowingly settle for less compensation than you may be entitled to if injuries surface later. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health and legal rights.
Why Car Accident Claims On Long Island Can Be Complex
Several factors can complicate a car accident claim, making the process of obtaining compensation more challenging. Some of the most common complications include:
- Disputed liability: When there is disagreement about who was at fault for the accident, it can significantly complicate the claim process. This often leads to a lengthy investigation and potential legal battles to determine liability.
- Lack of evidence: If there is insufficient evidence to support your claim, such as a lack of witnesses, no police report, or minimal documentation of the accident scene, it can be more difficult to prove fault and the extent of your damages.
- Pre-existing injuries: If you have pre-existing medical conditions or injuries similar to those suffered in the accident, the insurance company may argue that your current injuries are not a result of the accident, complicating your claim.
- Multiple parties involved: Accidents involving multiple vehicles or parties can complicate the claim process, as it may be challenging to determine fault and allocate liability among the parties involved.
- Uninsured or underinsured drivers: If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage or is uninsured, it can be more difficult to obtain adequate compensation for your damages.
- Delayed or gaps in medical treatment: If you delay seeking medical treatment or have significant gaps in your treatment history, the insurance company may argue that your injuries are not severe or are unrelated to the accident.
- Conflicting medical opinions: When there are conflicting medical opinions about the extent and cause of your injuries, it can complicate your claim and make it harder to reach a settlement.
- Bad faith insurance practices: In some cases, insurance companies may engage in bad faith practices, such as denying valid claims, delaying payments, or offering unreasonably low settlements, which can complicate the claim process.
A Long Island car accident attorney can help you navigate these complications. We can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests throughout the claim process.
You Can Recover Compensation If You Share Some of The Blame For The Accident
According to New York Civil Practice Law & Rules Article 14-A, New York follows comparative negligence rules, which means you can get compensation in an accident, even if it was partially your fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, and you may also have to pay compensation to another party based on your percentage of shared fault.
This “comparative negligence” rule makes injury cases more complicated but allows more people to recover losses after accidents. With this rule, it’s important that you consider consulting with a lawyer since your percentage of fault will directly impact the amount of your compensation.
Why You Should Let Your Long Island Car Accident Lawyer Handle The Insurance Companies
After a car accident, it is highly advisable to let your car accident lawyer handle all communications with insurance companies. There are several important reasons why this is the best course of action:
- Knowledge of the legal process: Car accident lawyers have a deep understanding of the legal process and the tactics used by insurance companies. They know how to navigate the complex web of insurance policies, liability laws, and negotiation strategies to ensure that your interests are protected throughout the process.
- Handling legal complexities: Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries. Your lawyer will handle all the legal complexities of your case, including filing paperwork, meeting deadlines, and representing you in court if necessary. This allows you to focus on your recovery and personal life without the added stress of legal proceedings.
- Leveraging our reputation: Insurance companies are more likely to take your claim seriously when you are represented by a reputable car accident lawyer. They know that your attorney has the knowledge, resources, and determination to fight for your rights and will be less likely to employ tactics designed to devalue or deny your claim.
- Saving time and energy: Communicating with insurance companies can be time-consuming and emotionally draining, particularly when you are dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident. By letting your lawyer handle these communications, you can save yourself time, energy, and stress, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.
- Avoiding costly mistakes: Without proper legal guidance, you may make mistakes when communicating with insurance companies that can harm your claim. For example, you may accidentally admit fault, downplay your injuries, or agree to a settlement that is far less than you deserve. Your lawyer will help you avoid these costly errors and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Letting your car accident lawyer handle communications with insurance companies is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights after a wreck. Your injury attorney’s experience, knowledge, and dedication to your case will be invaluable in navigating the complex legal process and securing the best possible outcome for your claim.
How Your Long Island Car Accident Attorney Will Prove Fault in Your Claim
There are certain steps your Long Island personal injury lawyer will need to take for a successful car accident claim. To prove fault, we will establish that:
The Other Driver Owed You a Duty of Care – And Violated It
All drivers owe a duty of care to other people who use the roads on Long Island, which means they have a legal duty to follow the rules of the road to protect others from harm. For example, drivers have a duty to avoid driving while drunk, speeding, driving recklessly, or driving while distracted.
We will use evidence to prove that the at-fault party in your claim owed you a duty of care and violated it when they caused the wreck.
The Other Driver’s Negligence Caused Your Accident and Damages
We will gather evidence to prove that the other party’s negligence caused your accident and your injuries, and this resulted in your damages. Evidence we could use to prove negligence in your claim includes blood test results, traffic or security cam footage, or eyewitness accounts.
Evidence we can use to prove the value of your damages includes your medical bills, work statements about your lost wages, and any other documentation you have of expenses that are related to the wreck.
Our Long Island Car Accident Lawyers Handle all Types of Car Wreck Claims On Long Island
Car accidents can take many forms and involve various types of vehicles and road users. Some of the most common types of car accidents include collisions with other passenger vehicles, pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, motorcycle collisions, and collisions with trucks.
If you’ve been in a wreck with any other type of vehicle, Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC will guide you every step of the way and keep you informed throughout the legal process. Our Long Island car accident attorneys represent clients in a variety of incidents, including:
- Frontal collision
- Sideswipe
- T-bone accident
- Highway crash
- Accident involving bicyclists
- Accident with a truck
- Accident in Uber
- Accident caused by speeding
During your initial consultation, our Long Island car accident lawyers will spend time listening to you and learning more about the type of accident you were involved in so we can begin working on a strong case.
How Long it Takes to Settle a Long Island Car Accident Claim
The length of time it takes to settle a car accident claim can vary significantly depending on several factors. On average, straightforward cases with clear liability and minor injuries may be resolved within a few months. However, more complex cases involving disputed liability, severe injuries, or multiple parties can take several months to a year or more to settle.
One of the primary factors influencing the timeline of a car accident claim is the severity of the injuries involved. Claims involving serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or permanent disabilities, often require extensive medical treatment and may have long-term consequences. In these cases, it is essential to wait until the victim has reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) before settling the claim.
Ultimately, the goal of a personal injury attorney is to secure the best possible outcome for their client, which may involve a longer settlement process. By taking the time to thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies, attorneys can work to maximize their client’s compensation and ensure that their long-term needs are met.
How a Long Island Car Accident Lawyer Will Handle a Devaluation or Denial of Your Claim
When a car accident lawyer takes on your case, they will work diligently to protect your rights and fight against any attempts by insurance companies to devalue or deny your claim. Here’s how an experienced attorney will handle these situations:
- Thorough investigation: Your lawyer will conduct a comprehensive investigation of your accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions. This evidence will be used to build a strong case that demonstrates the extent of your injuries and the liability of the at-fault party.
- Identifying insurance company tactics: Insurance companies often use various tactics to minimize the value of your claim or deny it altogether. These tactics may include questioning the severity of your injuries, arguing that your injuries were pre-existing, or suggesting that you were partially at fault for the accident. Your lawyer will be familiar with these strategies and know how to counter them effectively.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Your attorney will handle all communications with the insurance companies involved in your case. They will use their negotiation skills and the evidence gathered to advocate for a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Presenting strong arguments: If the insurance company attempts to devalue or deny your claim, your lawyer will present strong arguments to support your case. They will use medical evidence, expert testimony, and legal precedents to demonstrate the validity of your claim and the extent of your damages.
- Filing a lawsuit: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. By initiating legal action, your lawyer can continue to pressure the insurance company to negotiate in good faith and can present your case to a judge or jury if necessary.
- Protecting your rights: Throughout the process, your car accident lawyer will protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies. They will advise you on your legal options, keep you informed about the progress of your case, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
By working with a car accident lawyer from Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, you can have peace of mind knowing that your claim is in capable hands. Your attorney will handle the legal complexities of your case, stand up to insurance companies, and advocate for your rights, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident on Long Island?
Knowing the steps to take after a car accident is critical as certain mistakes can damage a personal injury claim before it’s even filed. Take these steps to increase your chances of having a successful claim:
- Contact the authorities: Call 911 and wait for the emergency response team to arrive. You will also need to file a police report that will create a record of the crash.
- Seek medical attention: It’s crucial to seek medical treatment after the accident, even if you don’t have immediate injuries. You will need medical records to use as evidence in your claim.
- Preserve evidence: Take pictures and videos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicles involved. Get witness statements and contact information.
- Don’t admit fault: Apologizing for the accident can be interpreted as admitting fault, and admissions of fault can lower your compensation or bar you from getting compensation at all.
- Consider hiring a personal injury attorney: Our Long Island car accident attorneys can provide legal support and help ensure your legal rights are protected.
It’s also helpful to keep all of your documentation related to the accident together in a safe place. Bring your documentation with you when you see your injury attorney for your initial consultation.
Evidence a Car Accident Lawyer on Long Island May Use to Prove Liability
New York personal injury lawyers use various types of evidence to prove liability in car accident claims. Some of the most common types of evidence include:
- Police reports: Official police reports documenting the accident, including details about the scene, the parties involved, and any citations issued, can be valuable evidence in establishing fault.
- Eyewitness statements: Accounts from independent witnesses who saw the accident occur can provide crucial information about how the accident happened and who was at fault.
- Physical evidence from the accident scene: Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and debris can help accident reconstruction experts determine how the accident occurred and who was responsible.
- Traffic camera or surveillance footage: Video footage from traffic cameras, dash cams, or nearby surveillance cameras can provide a visual record of the accident, which can be invaluable in proving liability.
- Vehicle data: Many modern vehicles are equipped with event data recorders (EDRs) or “black boxes” that can provide information about a vehicle’s speed, braking, and other factors leading up to the accident.
- Cell phone records: In cases where distracted driving is suspected, cell phone records may be used to prove that the at-fault driver was using their phone at the time of the accident.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction experts, engineers, or medical professionals may provide testimony to help establish the cause of the accident and the extent of the injuries suffered.
- Medical records and bills: Documentation of the victim’s injuries, treatment, and medical expenses can demonstrate the severity of the harm caused by the accident and support the victim’s claim for damages.
- Employment records: If the victim’s injuries have resulted in lost wages or a reduced earning capacity, employment records and pay stubs can be used to prove the extent of their financial losses.
- Admissions of fault: In some cases, the at-fault party may make statements admitting their responsibility for the accident, which can be used as evidence in the claim.
Our personal injury lawyers will work to gather and present the most compelling evidence to support our client’s claim and prove the liability of the at-fault party. By using a combination of these types of evidence, our attorneys can build a strong case and increase the likelihood of obtaining fair compensation for our clients.
How A Car Accident Lawyer in Long Island Can Help You
When you’re recovering from a car accident and missing work, having the support of a Long Island car accident attorney can be invaluable. By working with a skilled legal professional, accident victims can focus on their health and recovery while their attorney handles the legal aspects of their case. A car accident lawyer can:
- Communicate with insurance companies on behalf of the victim, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
- Gather evidence to support the victim’s claim, including police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers the victim’s medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- If necessary, represent the victim in court to fight for their rights and the compensation they deserve.
Having a dedicated legal advocate on their side allows car accident victims to focus on what matters most: their physical and emotional recovery. With the knowledge that their legal interests are being protected, victims can devote their energy to healing, attending medical appointments, and working towards a full recovery.
CONTACT A LONG ISLAND CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER
After a car accident, you need the most experienced legal team on your side. Contact the Long Island car accident lawyers at Trantolo & Trantolo to fight for the compensation you deserve. For a free, no-obligation consultation, please fill out our online contact form or call us anytime.