After a car accident, the road to recovery can be long. You may have to undergo extensive rehabilitation or even have a permanent disability that prevents you from working the same job you had before the accident. However, you don’t have to shoulder the burden alone. At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., we have recovered tens of millions for our clients through hard work and dedication. Since 1975, we have provided large-firm, full-service quality legal work for a broad range of clients. Decades later, we are still big enough to do it all and small enough to care. Contact us for more information.
Car Accident Statistics
Each year, there are approximately six million car accidents in the United States. While many of these are minor fender benders, many result in serious injuries or even fatalities. For example, between 2014 and 2020, the average number of crashes in Rockland County averaged around 6500 per year. Namely, Routes 45 and 59 experience high traffic and add about 1100 crashes to Rockland County’s yearly totals.
Common Causes of Rockland County Car Accidents
Rockland County, though beautiful, is rife with winding rural roads. Hazardous weather conditions during the winter and spring mean Rockland County residents and passers-by must drive cautiously. The most common causes of car accidents include the following:
Distracted Driving
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from safe driving.” Texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, and talking to passengers are examples. Distracted driving is a growing problem in the United States, with more than 481,000 drivers using their phones while behind the wheel. When drivers are distracted, they are less likely to see potential hazards on the road and more likely to make mistakes that could lead to accidents.
There are a few simple things you can do to avoid distracted driving. Most importantly, put your cell phone away before you get behind the wheel and pull over to a safe location if you need to use your phone for navigation or to make a call.
Driving in Inclement Weather
The dangers of driving in inclement weather are many. However, drivers can reduce accident risk by taking extra caution when poor weather causes reduced visibility, slippery roads, and poor road conditions.
Driving Under the Influence
Despite the obvious and well-documented dangers, many people still get behind the wheel of a car after imbibing. The risks of driving under the influence are high because reaction time slows and impairs cognitive function.
To be considered impaired or under the influence, a driver must have a blood alcohol level (BAL) of 0.05% or higher. This can be measured through a blood test, breath test, or urine test. If a driver is found to be under the influence, they will be arrested and may face jail time, a fine, or both. In addition to the BAL, police officers will also consider a driver’s behavior when determining if they are under the influence, e.g., swerving, speeding, and driving erratically are all signs that a driver may be impaired.
What to Do After a Car Accident
After a car accident, it is crucial to stay calm and take the following steps:
- Check for injuries.
- Call 911 if necessary.
- Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it is safe.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver.
- Take photos of the accident scene and your vehicle.
- Contact your insurance company and report the accident.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer.
Your safety is of the utmost importance after a collision. Following these steps ensures you take care of your health and maximize your eventual settlement.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Laws
New York is a no-fault state–your insurance company will pay for your medical bills and lost wages after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. This differs from other states, where the at-fault driver’s insurance company would be responsible for these costs. No-fault laws were enacted to help reduce the number of car accident lawsuits. By having your own insurance company pay for your medical bills and lost wages, it is hoped that you will be less likely to sue the other driver.
However, if you sustain a “serious injury” as defined in the insurance law , you can still sue the at-fault driver in New York. To do this, you will need to prove that the other driver was negligent to recover damages. Fortunately, our talented Rockland County car accident attorneys are experienced in proving negligence.
What Damages Are Available for Car Accident Victims?
Negligent drivers who contribute to an accident while impaired or distracted may be held liable for the damages they cause. A successful claim can account for a variety of damages, such as the following:
- Lost income
- Repayment for current and future medical bills
- Reduced earning capacity
- Disability or disfigurement
- Physical pain and Emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Preparing For Your First Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
First, you gather all of the documentation related to your accident, including police reports, insurance information, medical records, and any other relevant paperwork. It is also helpful to write down a list of questions you want to ask your attorney. You may want to ask how many cases they’ve successfully handled or how long your claim may take. Finally, you should understand that the consultation is confidential, so you can feel free to discuss the details of your accident without worry.
We understand that filing a lawsuit is stressful. However, we handle each case with the care and skill it deserves to put our clients at ease while we fight for their justice.
Contact us for a free consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed with medical and financial issues. Our tenacious Rockland County car accident lawyers at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman are here to help. We have 40 years of experience winning claims for our clients so they can rebuild their lives after an accident. Schedule a free consultation at our office in Rockland County.
