Car accidents are a leading cause of unintentional injuries in the United States. In 2015 alone, more than 2 million people were hurt in motor-vehicle collisions. For many of these victims, the symptoms of their injuries weren’t immediately apparent.
If you were hurt in a crash but your symptoms were latent, it’s important that you visit a doctor right away. Failing to do so could cause the insurance company to argue that your injury was caused by something else, or that your own negligence contributed to its severity. If you don’t seek prompt medical care, it may reduce the value of your personal injury claim.
If you’re concerned that the insurance company will dispute your claim or if you need help navigating the legal system, contact The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny. Our personal injury attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience in legal practice. Call 212-421-0300 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car accident lawyer in New York City.
Below are a few more tips to consider if your pain after a collision was delayed:
Contact an Attorney to Begin an Immediate Investigation
It’s best to start building your claim before even leaving the scene, but if you failed to do so, you can still gather evidence over the days and weeks that follow. Your first priority, however, should be your health. Visit a doctor right away for an evaluation.
Once your health has stabilized, contact an attorney to discuss your case. A personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence that is difficult to access, which may include the at-fault driver’s cell phone records and surveillance footage of the crash. Your attorney can also speak to eyewitnesses and ensure your claim is as strong as possible before settlement negotiations begin.
Since New York follows a no-fault system, your first source of compensation would likely be your own insurance company. You can only file a claim with the liable party’s insurance provider if your injuries meet certain criteria. An accident lawyer can assess the facts of your case to identify all potential avenues for pursuing compensation.
Avoid Mistakes That Might Jeopardize Your Case
There are dozens of ways that claimants can jeopardize their cases inadvertently. For example, the insurance company might dispute your claim if you provide a recorded statement about your accident or injury. Publishing social media posts about your case might also lead to a dispute.
It’s important that you direct all correspondence from the insurer to your lawyer and stay off social media while your case is pending. Also, you shouldn’t sign anything from the insurance company without your attorney’s approval.
Discuss Your Case with a Car Accident Attorney in New York City
If you need help filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim after a car accident, turn to The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny. We will conduct a thorough investigation, interview eyewitnesses, calculate your damages, and help you pursue the maximum payout possible. Call 212-421-0300 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in New York City.
