How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident?
September 11, 2023 in Motor Vehicle Accidents, Personal Injury
In 2021, car accidents resulted in 5.4 million injuries. After a car accident in New York, there are many different deadlines to meet in order to receive the compensation you may be entitled to. If you sustained injuries from a car accident, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills through New York’s no-fault insurance benefits. Personal injury laws in New York are complicated, and most deadlines have exceptions, so it is important to connect with an attorney to receive the compensation you may deserve.
Below, the experienced attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo discuss the car accident statute of limitations in New York, how long you have to file an insurance claim, potential damages you can recover, and how an attorney can help you through the process.
New York Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents
Car accident statute of limitations refers to the time limit a victim has to file a claim after a car accident occurs. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident so that memories and evidence are accurate in the lawsuit.
In New York, the statute of limitations for a car accident is generally three years from the date the accident occurred, but there are exceptions like age and if the car accident is fatal.
It is important to connect with an attorney after a car accident as soon as possible so that you may receive compensation for damages and injuries sustained from the car accident. If you try to file a claim after the statute of limitations has passed, the court may dismiss your lawsuit.
Damages You Can Recover From a Car Accident in New York
States typically have different laws about what types of damages you can recover from a car accident. It is important to know what type of damages you may be able to recover in your state before beginning the claims process so you don’t waste time filing a claim that may be easily dismissed.
New York State laws allow victims of a car crash to seek compensation for economic damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Personal expenses
- Loss of income
- Physical therapy
- Personal care
- Decrease in earning potential
- Long-term nursing care
In New York, it is also possible to receive compensation for pain and suffering, including physical pain, mental distress, emotional distress, and scarring. In a small number of cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages to penalize the at-fault party for negligence and intentional wrongdoing. It is important to connect with an attorney to determine if you are entitled to compensation.
Can a Car Accident Attorney Help My Claim?
After you are injured in a car, it becomes difficult to think clearly, let alone navigate a complex or confusing claims process. A car accident attorney can help you collect the necessary evidence needed, such as police reports, photos, video, and other evidence. They will help you file a claim and make sure deadlines are met so that you may receive compensation.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney at SPBMCC Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including car accidents. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in matters such as 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, medical malpractice, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.