How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident?
While there are several exceptions, generally the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in New York is three years under Civil Practice Law & Rules (CVP) §214. The faster you file your case, the better your chance of not missing this important deadline.
The injuries you experienced can result in massive medical costs and an inability to work. When another driver faces charges for the accident, they may face liability for your damages.
Possible compensation for your injuries happens in the form of a personal injury claim and lawsuit. A resolution in your case may occur out of court. Depending upon your case, your lawyer may need to proceed to trial.
The Forms of Evidence That Can Support Your Claim
A car accident can involve intricate details that require a full investigation to determine fault. A Long Island Personal Injury Lawyer can examine evidence to determine how the accident occurred:
Police Report
Police reports often contain information from all drivers involved in the crash and can identify the driver at fault for the collision.
Eyewitness Statements
The police report may contain witness statements. If it does not, the contact information for witnesses can help your lawyer reach out to these individuals to interview them.
Captured Images of the Accident Scene
Smartphones are a useful tool for capturing photographs and videos of the accident scene. Media reports regarding the accident or traffic/CCTV footage can also potentially help your lawyer build your case.
Documentation of Your Injuries
Medical reports detailing your injuries and receipts proving your expenses associated with your care are necessary for detailing your damages.
A free case evaluation is the first step toward determining if you are eligible for compensation. Once a law firm determines your car accident injuries qualify you for a personal injury claim and lawsuit, they begin to collect the information necessary for proving negligence.
The Clock Starts the Moment of Injury
Three years is not very long for you to recover from serious injuries. The statute of limitations on lawsuits starts the moment you become injured. Time passes quickly when you are in the hospital, a rehabilitation center, or placing a loved one in a nursing facility.
Failure to promptly file your lawsuit can result in a missed opportunity for compensation. Once the deadline passes, your chance for legal action is typically lost forever.
Hiring a lawyer can prevent you from missing court requirements. A lawyer can also represent you in negotiations with an insurance company. A personal injury lawyer is on your side during what is most likely one of the most challenging times of your life.
Your Injuries and Possible Compensation
Personal injury cases vary in terms of causes, negligence, and liability. Car accident victims can often seek the following types of compensation:
- Medical costs: For current and future expenses
- Lost income: For lost wages and compensation for their diminished earning capacity, if the victim is unable to return to their previous job
- Pain and suffering: For the physical, psychological, emotional, and financial anguish that resulted from the other driver’s negligence
What happened to you was a traumatic event; you should not have to deal with the paperwork and insurance companies on your own. A lawyer can do this and more on your behalf.
Choosing the right lawyer for your case is essential for peace of mind. The knowledge that someone is protecting your best interests can allow you to rest—a vital part of the recovery process.
Contact Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP LLP Regarding Your Car Accident Injuries
We can come to visit you if your injuries prevent you from traveling to us. When you hire us to represent you, you work directly with a firm that cares about its clients. A car accident’s residual effects can leave victims without transportation, with intrusive insurance adjusters calling and visiting.
We will shoulder responsibility for your case by providing assistance with your transportation issues and managing insurance adjusters on your behalf. Insurance company tactics can include underpaying accident victims. We want to negotiate for a fair settlement for you.
Time is extremely important in a civil case, making it imperative that you reach out to us today. Your opportunity to pursue compensation is now. If a drunk, distracted, aggressive, or drowsy driver is responsible for your injuries, hold them accountable with our help. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in New York is three years, so you should not stand by. Call us today.
A free case evaluation leaves you with nothing to lose. Placing a call to our office is a positive first step toward justice for your unfair injuries and suffering. Call the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP, now for your free evaluation at (866) 878-6774.
The New York State Department of Health states that “motor vehicle traffic injuries are the 3rd leading cause of injury-related death in Dutchess County.” We can help if you or a loved one suffered from such an accident.
