When people do not have a driver’s license or vehicle of their own, they may utilize another person to help drive them to where they need to be. This may be a relative, friend, or car service. While people trust that they will be safe in doing so, it is always possible for a car accident to take place on the road. If an accident is due to driver negligence, it is important to know that the injured passenger can pursue legal action to recover compensation for damages. Continue reading below to learn more and contact an experienced New York personal injury attorney for assistance with your case.
What are Common Causes of Car Accidents?
Driver negligence is a common cause of car accidents in the state of New York. There are a variety of actions that can be considered driver negligence, including but not limited to the following:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Reckless driving or speeding
- Carelessness
- Drowsy driving
- Texting and driving
What Do I Do After an Accident?
After an accident, there are certain steps that should be taken to ensure a future claim. The first step is to contact the necessary emergency services as soon as possible. This allows medical services to arrive for examinations and law enforcement can draft an official police report. While this is helpful, victims of the accident should also gather their own evidence. This can include pictures or videos of the scene, gathering witness testimony and contact information, etc. This is all helpful evidence that can be used in court later on to help prove a claim.
How Can I Recover Compensation?
When an injured passenger wants to pursue legal action after a car accident, they are required to file a personal injury claim. During this time, they must prove the driver was negligent, directly causing the injuries they sustained. If successful, the injured party can recover both economic and non-economic compensation for damages. Economic damages cover any financial burdens, such as medical expenses, lost wages, lost future wages, medical equipment, and more. Non-economic damages are for non-financial burdens, such as emotional distress, loss of independence, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured in a New York City car accident, Swerling Law is here to help. Our firm understands the challenges that many people face after being hurt in an accident and is prepared to help you receive an award of significant compensation to ease some of your burdens. To schedule a consultation with an experienced construction site accident attorney in New York City, contact Swerling Law today.
