If you’ve been involved in a head-on crash in Queens, you know how devastating these types of car accidents can be. The force of two vehicles colliding head-on often results in severe injuries, huge property damage, and overwhelming emotional and financial stress. A Queens auto accident lawyer can help you get maximum compensation and make the negligent driver responsible for any serious injury.
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At Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we are aware of the challenges when facing car accident cases, and we’re here to help you handle the legal process much easier and seek the compensation you deserve. You can trust our law firm’s Queens car accident attorneys to seek compensation for you.
Understanding Head-On Crashes in Queens
Head-on crashes are dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents. They happen when the front ends of two vehicles collide, usually because one driver is driving in the wrong lane or fails to stay within their lane. These accidents can happen on highways, city streets, or even rural roads, often leading to serious injuries and catastrophic outcomes for everyone involved.
In addition to the physical toll, head-on crashes can lead to substantial financial burdens. Medical bills, lost expenses, and property damage can add up fast, leaving accident victims struggling to make ends meet. Seeking compensation to cover these costs is crucial so you can recover much easier and faster.
Common Causes of Head-On Crashes
Several factors can contribute to head-on crashes, including:
- Distracted driving: If drivers use their smartphone, GPS, or other distractions, they may veer into the next lane, causing a head-on collision.
- Drunk driving: A driver who's been drinking will remove their ability to stay in their lane, increasing the risk of a head-on crash.
- Fatigued driving: Drowsy drivers are likelier to drift into the wrong lane or fall asleep at the wheel, leading to an extreme crash.
- Speeding: A driver has to react to unexpected situations, and excessive speed makes it harder to avoid a head-on collision.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Timing is key when it comes to pursuing a car accident claim. In New York, the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two to three years from the accident date. However, the sooner you contact a lawyer, the higher your chances of getting the necessary evidence and building a strong case.
Common Car Accident Injuries from Head-On Crashes
Head-on crashes can result in a wide range of serious injuries, many of which are life-threatening or require long-term medical care. Some of the most common car accident injuries seen in head-on crashes include:
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord damage can end in paralysis or other permanent disabilities. These injuries need extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Traumatic brain injuries: A drastic blow on the head can cause traumatic brain injuries. An injury of this kind leads to impairments, memory loss, and other long-term effects.
- Broken bones: The strength of the impact could cause many fractures, which may need surgery and lengthy recovery periods.
- Internal injuries: Internal injuries, like organ damage or internal bleeding, can be deadly and may not be immediately clear after the accident.
Steps to Take After a Head-On Crash in Queens
If you've been involved in a head-on crash in Queens, you should follow many important steps to protect your rights and build a strong compensation case.
Get Medical Support
Your health should be your top priority after a serious car accident. Even if you don't feel injured, seeking medical attention right away is needed.
Some injuries, like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. A thorough medical examination will diagnose and treat all injuries promptly.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
If you can do so, collecting evidence at the accident scene can be vital for your car accident case. Take pictures of the cars involved, the scene of the incident, and any visible injuries.
If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information and statements. The evidence can be invaluable when building your case.
Report the Accident to the Police
Report the accident to law enforcement and get a copy of the official accident report. The official report will provide relevant details about the accident and may include information about who was at fault. Your car accident lawyer will use this report as part of your case.
Contact a Head-On Crash Lawyer in Queens
As soon as possible, contact an experienced auto accident lawyer and head-on crash lawyer in Queens. Your attorney will help you through the legal process, help you be aware of your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
The sooner you have legal help, the greater your chances of getting a favorable outcome in your case.
Filing a Car Accident Claim
Filing a car accident claim after a head-on crash involves several steps, each of which is important to the success of your case.
Understanding the Claims Process
The car accident claims process can be hard and time-consuming. It involves filing a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company, providing evidence of your injuries and damages, and negotiating a settlement.
Sometimes, the insurance company may challenge your claim or offer a low settlement, requiring further negotiations or litigation.
Working with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies is an uncomfortable aspect during a car accident case. Insurance adjusters usually try to cut down your claim costs or argue that you were somewhat at fault for the accident.
A skilled car accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company, make settlements on your behalf, and strive for a fair settlement.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the insurance company does not offer a good settlement, your lawyer will recommend you pursue legal action and file a personal injury lawsuit.
A lawsuit involves taking your case to court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. While litigation can be lengthy, securing the compensation you deserve may be required.
Types of Compensation Available in Head-On Crash Cases
Victims of head-on crashes are entitled to several types of compensation, depending on how serious the injuries are and the impact on their lives.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are usually one of the largest components of a car accident claim. Medical bills include the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
If your injuries are severe, you may also be entitled to compensation for future medical costs.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you could be entitled to compensation for your loss of wages. Lost wages include the income you've been unable to receive while recovering and any future loss of earnings if your injuries are permanent or long-term.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Besides economic damages, you may also be entitled to compensation for emotional distress and any suffering. They include the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. Pain and suffering damages are often significant in cases involving severe or life-changing injuries.
Property Damage
Head-on crashes often result in property damage to your vehicle and any personal belongings inside. You can get money back for repairing or replacing your vehicle. You can also ask for reimbursement for any other property damaged in the crash.
The Role of a Queens Car Accident Attorney
A Queens auto accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your compensation after a head-on crash.
Investigating Your Case
One of the first things your attorney will do is conduct a thorough investigation of your case. This will include reviewing the police report, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and speaking with experts.
The goal is to build a strong case that proves the other driver was at fault and that you deserve compensation for your injuries and damages.
Representing You in Court
If your case goes to court, your lawyer will represent you at every stage of the legal process. They will present evidence, question witnesses, and argue on your behalf. Having an experienced attorney by your side can improve your chances of winning your case and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Common Challenges in Head-On Crash Cases
Head-on crash cases can be complex, and several challenges may arise during the legal process.
Proving Fault
One of the biggest challenges in head-on crash cases is proving fault. While it may seem obvious that the other driver was at fault, insurance companies and their lawyers may argue otherwise. Your attorney must gather strong evidence, such as witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and expert testimony, to show that the other driver was responsible for the crash.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies usually try to lessen their payouts and may use various tactics. Their tactics are attempts to discredit how critical your injuries are, arguing that you were partially at fault or offering a low settlement in the hopes that you'll accept it out of desperation.
An experienced lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and will fight to get you a fair settlement.
Handling Complex Legal Issues
Head-on crash cases can involve complex legal issues, like when multiple parties are involved or if the accident results in severe injuries. Your attorney must handle these issues carefully, using their knowledge of New York law and the legal system to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some frequently asked questions about head-on car accident lawsuits:
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault somehow?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident under New York's comparative negligence rule. But, your compensation may be lowered by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
You must file a personal injury claim three years from the accident date in New York. Yet, it's important to act fast, as collecting evidence and building a strong case take time. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances are of meeting all deadlines and maximizing your compensation.
What should I do if the insurance company offers a low settlement?
If the insurance company offers a low settlement, you must consult an attorney before accepting it. Your lawyer will assess the offer and represent you. We aim to receive a fair settlement covering all your expenses and losses.
If the insurance company does not offer a reasonable amount, your attorney will recommend taking the case to court.
Contact Davidoff Law for a Free Consultation
If you've been involved in a head-on car accident in Queens, don't wait to get legal help. Our experienced Queens car accident lawyers are here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and help you take the crucial steps to protect your rights and confirm the compensation you deserve.
Let us be your advocate in this challenging time, and trust us to fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact Davidoff Law today for a free consultation regarding your car accident injury claims. We will provide the support needed to represent you in a car accident lawsuit. Our law firm will aim to secure fair compensation for all injury victims.
