A head-on collision is arguably the most scary type of car accident you can be involved in. While any type of accident can cause serious injuries, a head-on collision can result in extremely severe injuries or even death due to two vehicles directly impacting each other at the front of the vehicle, usually at high speeds.
Because of the severity of injuries associated with head-on collisions in New York, average settlements for this type of accident can be substantial. Settlements awarded in head-on collision accidents can range from a few thousand dollars to as much as $1 million and up. It is difficult to name a typical settlement amount that is awarded.
The amount you are awarded in a settlement can be impacted by whether or not you are represented by a lawyer, so we advise that you consult with an experienced NY car accident lawyer at the very least. With the help of a dedicated lawyer by your side, you can maximize the compensation you receive.
With that said, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is very experienced in representing car accident clients. Our team can help you understand your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Typical Damages in a New York Car Accident Claim
In a car accident claim, you can seek both economic and non-economic damages, depending on the severity of your injuries and the impact the injuries have had on your life.
- Medical costs, including the cost of any follow-up care or treatment
- Lost wages, including past missing work hours as well as potential losses if your capacity to make a living is compromised
- Property damage, such as costs for repairing your car
Receipts and invoices can be used to calculate economic damages.
To recover compensation for noneconomic damages, you would claim pain and suffering or diminished quality of life. Calculating noneconomic damages is more challenging. But, this is where a car accident lawyer can determine the lasting impact a serious injury has had on your life and build a strong case to seek compensation for these damages. In the case of a serious head-on collision, accident victims will seek noneconomic damages due to the severity of their injuries and the drastic impact it has had on their lives
How NY Car Accident Claims Are Typically Settled
After a head-on collision accident, you and your lawyer would determine the total amount of damages you should have received and provide that amount, together with supporting documentation and evidence, to the insurance provider who bears responsibility for the collision.
Since New York is a no-fault auto insurance state, drivers maintain auto insurance that pays for their medical expenses. A person may file a claim under the at-fault driver's auto liability insurance to obtain further payment for their medical bills and vehicle damage if they sustain "serious injuries", such as injuries likely sustained in a head-on collision.
Following the notification of a claim, an insurance company may do one of the following:
- Pay the settlement as requested
- Submit a counter-settlement offer
- Deny the claim
In an effort to reach a settlement, there may be a number of discussions and counter offers. Discussions with the insurance companies should be left up to your attorney. In the event that a settlement cannot be reached, a personal injury lawsuit could be filed and the decision would be left up to the courts to decide. However, the majority of car accident claims are settled out of court. The parties may agree to a settlement at any point before a jury renders a decision, even if a lawsuit is filed.
Lawsuits From A Head-On Collision Accident in NY
Regardless of whether you were a passenger in the same vehicle as the at-fault driver, a passenger in a different vehicle, or a pedestrian, you may file a claim to recover damages for your injuries. If your loved one was killed in the accident, surviving members of their family can file a claim.
If there are other parties to blame, such as an auto maker or a corporation who produced a defective part, a third party lawsuit can be filed to seek damages from all parties involved. Surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim for funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of future wages if the accident resulted in death. The plaintiffs may also seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages and benefits, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Cases such as this are typically complicated, and legal help is highly recommended.
Contact The NY Car Accident Lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick
The negligent drivers that caused a head-on collision and the severe injuries they cause should be held responsible. We will give you the legal support you require to resolve your case successfully.
The team at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is proud of its dedication to upholding our clients' legal rights, particularly those who have been hurt by the carelessness of others.
Give us a call and let's discuss your case and determine your options.