White Plains Car Accident Lawyers Offering Trial-Proven Representation

Our car accident lawyers know that a reckless, distracted or intoxicated driver can cause a wreck that changes others’ lives forever or leaves a family grieving. In the aftermath, it is often difficult to know whom to trust and what action to take. The more serious the outcomes, the more essential it is to consult an experienced White Plains car accident lawyer as soon as you can.

At Meagher & Meagher, P.C. in White Plains, we take action for victims of car accidents, pedestrian rundowns, bicycle accidents and other motor vehicle collisions. For more than 30 years, our civil litigation firm has been a premier resource for people injured on the roadways of Westchester County, the entire New York City metropolitan area and surrounding communities.

Dedicated Car Accident Lawyers Fighting For You

Led by renowned personal injury trial lawyer Christopher B. Meagher, we emphasize rigor in investigation and case building after auto and pedestrian accidents. You should not risk dealing with the insurance company on your own or through inexperienced counsel. We are well-prepared to evaluate every aspect of your potential case arising from, for example:

• Any injury-causing car, truck, motorcycle or other vehicle accident that you believe was caused by another driver’s negligence
• A pedestrian knockdown or rundown, whether in a crosswalk or under other circumstances

Whether our analysis of your auto accident case indicates that you may be able to recover thousands or millions of dollars, we will provide diligent advocacy. Our lawyers have in-depth knowledge of insurance coverage, all relevant laws and the defense strategies and tactics employed by insurance defense lawyers.

What To Do After A Car Accident In New York

Knowing what to do after a car accident protects your well-being and legal rights. Prompt action helps create a smoother recovery process and a stronger foundation for any potential accident claim or personal injury lawsuit.

Some of the critical steps to take after a car accident include:

• Prioritize safety: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location and check yourself and others involved for injuries. Even if you feel fine initially, it is good to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries, especially those arising from rear-end collisions or other high-impact accidents, may not manifest symptoms immediately but could lead to catastrophic injury if left untreated.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles involved, any visible property damage and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their testimony could be invaluable in corroborating your account of the accident. Also, make note of the weather conditions, road markings and any other relevant factors that may have contributed to the incident.
• Exchange insurance information: For property damage, exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) involved and notify your insurance company immediately. Even if the damage seems minor, have a professional assessment to adequately address all issues.
• Consult with a qualified attorney: An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance on navigating the complexities of accident claims and personal injury lawsuits. They can help you understand your rights, assess the potential value of your claim and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a car accident is three years from the accident. However, initiating the legal process sooner rather than later can help preserve crucial evidence and strengthen your case.

From documenting the scene to seeking medical attention and consulting with a lawyer, each step contributes to protecting your well-being and securing a favorable outcome for your accident claim or personal injury lawsuit.

How Long Does a Car Accident Case Normally Take?

The time it takes to resolve a personal injury claim after a motor vehicle accident can vary significantly based on the details of the case. If the fault is clear and the injuries are minor, a settlement could be reached within three to nine months. However, more complex cases, particularly those involving severe injuries, disputes over liability or the need for ongoing medical care, can take much longer, especially if the case goes to trial.

Several factors commonly cause delays in the process for accident victims:

• Ongoing medical treatment: If your injuries require extended treatment or if long-term recovery is uncertain, waiting until your condition stabilizes is crucial to better ensure that all future medical costs are accounted for in the claim.
• Insurance negotiations: Insurance companies may delay offering fair settlements, hoping that claimants will accept a quick, lower payout. Having legal representation helps ensure you won’t settle for less than what your claim is worth.
• Comparative negligence: In New York, the comparative negligence rule can complicate cases where both parties share some fault. It requires determining each party’s percentage of liability, which can add to the timeline.

If a lawsuit is unnecessary, a settlement can often be reached within 3 to 9 months. However, if the case proceeds to litigation, the timeline can extend to 1 to 2 years or more, depending on factors such as discovery, court scheduling and potential appeals. Court trials are often reserved for more contentious cases where liability is disputed or damages are substantial, meaning these cases typically take longer to resolve.

Hiring experienced personal injury attorneys like Meagher & Meagher, P.C. won’t prolong your case. Instead, we work to make sure your claim fully accounts for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages and long-term impacts. Rushing into a settlement could result in compensation that doesn’t cover the full extent of your injuries and losses. Taking the necessary time allows you to pursue the settlement you deserve, without settling for less due to impatience or pressure from insurers.

Should I Get A Car Accident Lawyer After A Car Accident?

If you get involved in a car accident, it can feel complicated and overwhelming. You may believe you deserve compensation, but you do not know how much you deserve or how to pursue it. Many people leave money on the table because they do not know what steps to take to protect their rights.

This is why you should work with a car crash lawyer who will understand the intricacies of your case. Here at Meagher & Meagher, P.C., we can help you negotiate with the insurance company, allowing you to fight for the compensation you deserve – and not a lowball offer. We also work on contingency fees, so you do not pay anything upfront – and you pay nothing at all until we win.

Will The Insurance Company Lowball You?

They certainly may. Insurance companies make money by keeping claim payouts as low as possible. They are not on your side. They want to pay you as little as they can legally get away with.

Many people just want to put the accident behind them and are tempted to accept the first settlement offer. They end up settling for less money than they deserve, closing the case, and they may not even realize how much more compensation they need for long-term health care costs, rehabilitation, lost earning capacity, long-term pain and suffering and much more. Remember, once the claim is settled, the chance to seek more compensation is gone. You have to get 100% the first time.

How Will Car Accident Lawyers Help?

A personal injury lawyer can help on many fronts. At Meagher & Meagher, P.C., we have gone through hundreds of insurance claims, so we know the ins and outs of the process, even if this is your first time. We understand the various damages and costs you may face and the type of compensation you need. We ensure that nothing goes overlooked and that the offer you eventually accept will be for the full value of your claim. We offer support, guidance and insights throughout the entire process.

Call 914-246-2958 For Prompt Attention From Experienced Car Accident Lawyers

Fast action to consult qualified legal counsel can be critical after a car or pedestrian accident in New York. Please call or email our firm for the personal attention of an experienced car accident lawyer and the dedicated advocacy you need in this traumatic time. We will be glad to provide a free case evaluation.