What if the Other Driver of a Car Accident Denies Liability?
If another driver denies liability in a car accident, this might delay your claims process. But it does not mean that your case will freeze in its tracks. You, or your representatives, will need to gather evidence that supports your case. In the end, the court or insurance companies will decide where liability lies.
When the court awards compensation, it takes into account each party’s degree of liability. If the court decides that you were partly to blame, they will award you less compensation.
What Should I Do After an Accident?
You’re turning off Forest Avenue at Walnut Road in Glen Cove, New York, when another car crashes into you. You get out and speak to the other driver. To your surprise, they flatly refuse to accept any of the blame. According to AARP, here are a few important steps to take after a car crash:
- Make certain that everyone is safe.
- Call the police and ask them to provide a copy of the accident report. This will be very important if the other driver insists they weren’t to blame.
- Take photos and videos of the scene. These may provide evidence that supports your case. You might want to ask a witness to take the photos if you’re injured or in shock.
- Ask the other driver for their details. Stay calm and don’t get into an argument.
- Ask any witnesses for contact details.
- Take detailed notes while your memory is fresh.
- Don’t post anything about your accident on social media.
- Ask your healthcare provider for copies of their reports on your injuries.
What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?
Although the rate of uninsured motorists in New York is very low, according to the Insurance Information Institute, you should contact your own insurance company if you are in an accident with an uninsured driver. Your policy may cover accidents that involve an uninsured or underinsured driver. Even if it does not, you can bring a lawsuit against the other party.
Can I Represent Myself?
Yes, you can. There is no legal reason why you couldn’t fight your own case. But you’ll want to think this over very carefully. The other driver’s representatives will work hard to protect their interests and try to reduce your award to the minimum. Legal proceedings are complicated and take a lot of time and effort. Unless you know your way around the system, it is best to put your case in the hands of a law firm.
About the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP
We are a tight-knit firm with a well-deserved reputation for success. Based on Long Island, we include Glen Cove in our area of operations. Our clients enjoy close relationships with our attorneys. We aggressively pursue cases and seek the best awards possible. We have won millions of dollars for our clients.
Will Legal Representation Cost a Lot of Money?
Legal fees are the last thing you should have to worry about right now. That’s why the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP works on a contingency basis. You pay nothing until we win your case—and only then will we receive an agreed percentage of your compensation. After an accident, you might have a lot of expenses, and you don’t need legal fees on top of that. We don’t charge hourly rates or any other hidden costs.
Will I Need to Go to Court?
This depends on the complexity of the case. In the majority of cases, the two parties agree to a settlement before a case goes to court. However, if the other driver insists that they’re not at fault and their representatives agree, there might be no other alternative than allowing a court to decide.
We know that appearing before a court is nerve-wracking. Don’t worry—we’ll thoroughly prepare you.
Talk with a Lawyer About Car Accident Liability
A car accident is a stressful experience. If the other driver denies liability, it only makes things more stressful. The other driver’s insurance company will often make you an offer soon after the accident. Think twice before you accept. These first offers are almost invariably for a lower sum than you should receive. The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP will make sure that your award is fair.
How Do I Contact the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP?
If your case goes ahead, we’ll investigate the accident, interview witnesses, and build your case. Our lawyers will calculate the amount that you should claim and press hard for a full settlement. You’ll always be able to contact your representative to ask questions. Give us a call at (866) 878-6774 for a free initial consultation today.
