Car accidents are common in any state, including New York, with thousands of accidents happening every year. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, there are over 300,000 reported motor vehicle crashes each year, resulting in thousands of injuries and fatalities. Each accident has the potential to result in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. For the accident victim who suffers injury, what follows can be overwhelming. In such situations, seeking legal help from an experienced car accident lawyer is the most important step in making sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
However, many people hesitate to contact a lawyer because they are concerned about the cost. Most people do not understand that they can, in fact, hire a car accident lawyer in New York, due to the majority working on a contingency basis. We will discuss the costs of NY car accident lawyers below.
If you’re seeking an experienced lawyer, reach out to the office of Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law. We can help you get through the aftermath of a car accident and ensure you are compensated fairly.
The Importance of Hiring a NY Car Accident Lawyer
When you’re involved in a car accident, especially one that results in significant injuries or damages, taking the legal steps that follow can be daunting. Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly, oftentimes, for less than what you deserve. Additionally, New York’s no-fault insurance laws, comparative negligence rules, and specific filing deadlines add layers to the process that you may not be aware of. This is where retaining the services of an NY car accident lawyer becomes invaluable.
A car accident lawyer can help you take all the necessary steps to ensure a successful case, such as gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary. Their goal is to ensure that you receive fair compensation that covers your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. Without legal representation, you might find yourself at a disadvantage, particularly when dealing with insurance companies that are more focused on protecting profits than on providing you with the compensation you need.
How NY Car Accident Lawyers Charge for Their Services
Contingency Fee Basis
One of the most common concerns people have about hiring a car accident lawyer is the cost. Fortunately, most car accident lawyers in New York, including Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t have to pay any upfront fees to hire your lawyer. Instead, the lawyer’s fees are contingent upon winning your case. If your lawyer successfully secures a settlement or court award for you, they will take a percentage of that amount as their fee.
The standard contingency fee for car accident cases in New York is typically around 33% of the settlement or court award. However, this percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of work involved, and whether the case goes to trial. It’s important to discuss the fees with your lawyer upfront to ensure that you understand the terms.
Additional Costs
While the contingency fee covers the lawyer’s time and effort, there may be additional costs associated with your case. These costs can include court filing fees, the cost of obtaining medical records, expert witness fees, and other expenses related to building a strong case. In many cases, your lawyer will advance these costs on your behalf and deduct them from your settlement or award after the case is resolved.
You will want to clarify with your lawyer how these costs will be handled. Some lawyers may require you to reimburse them for these expenses regardless of the outcome of your case, while others will only deduct them if they win your case. Make sure to have a clear understanding of how these costs will be managed before proceeding.
Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Is Worth the Cost
Hiring a car accident lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth the investment:
Expertise in New York Car Accident Laws
New York has specific laws governing car accidents, including its no-fault insurance system and comparative negligence rules. Under the no-fault system, your own insurance company is responsible for paying your medical bills and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, if your injuries are severe or your damages exceed the limits of your no-fault coverage, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
A car accident lawyer understands the nuances of these laws and can determine the best course of action for your case. They can help you navigate the no-fault insurance system, gather the necessary evidence to prove liability, and ensure that you meet all filing deadlines.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements to accident victims. They may try to minimize your injuries, dispute liability, or pressure you to settle quickly. A car accident lawyer has experience negotiating with insurance companies and knows how to counter their tactics. They can advocate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Without legal representation, you may not be aware of the full extent of damages you are entitled to. A car accident lawyer will thoroughly evaluate your case to identify all possible sources of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Their goal is to maximize your compensation so that you can focus on your recovery.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
Navigating New York car accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.
Contact us now for a free legal review.