If you’ve been hurt in a car crash, it’s not just the vehicle that’s damaged; it’s your life. Medical bills pile up, paychecks stop, and insurance companies don’t always play fair. At The Saul Law Firm, LLP, we help car accident victims across Garden City and Long Island get the compensation they deserve, whether through a no-fault claim, a serious injury lawsuit, or a third-party liability case.
We’ve recovered millions for clients suffering from life-altering injuries. When you call our office, you speak with real attorneys who care. And you don’t pay us a cent unless we win your case.
What Are Your Rights After a Car Accident in New York?
New York is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance covers medical bills and lost wages up to policy limits, regardless of fault.
But if your injuries qualify as serious, you may also sue the at-fault driver for full compensation, including pain and suffering.
Do I Have a Car Accident Case?
You may have a valid case if:
- Another driver was negligent (distracted, drunk, speeding).
- Your injuries are serious under New York law (fractures, disfigurement, disability).
- Your financial losses exceed $50,000.
- A government agency or manufacturer contributed to the crash.
Our attorneys evaluate every angle of your case, from liability to long-term damages.
What Injuries Count as “Serious” in New York?
Under New York law, serious injuries include:
- Death or dismemberment
- Fractures
- Loss of a fetus
- Significant disfigurement
- Permanent limitation of an organ or limb
- Significant limitation of a body function or system
- 90/180 rule: being unable to perform normal activities for 90 of 180 days
If your injuries qualify, you can step outside the no-fault system and sue for full damages, including future care and lost earning capacity.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Garden City
Car accidents happen for many reasons, but the most frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS use)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Fatigue
- Tailgating or unsafe lane changes
- Red light violations
- Defective roads or vehicle parts
We also pursue claims against municipalities for unsafe road design and auto manufacturers for defective parts.
What To Do After a Car Accident
Taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your claim:
- Call 911 and get a police report.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos of the vehicles, injuries, and road conditions.
- Exchange information with other drivers and witnesses.
- Avoid recorded statements with insurers.
- Contact a car accident attorney before signing any paperwork.
Who Pays Your Medical Bills After a Car Accident in New York?
Your no-fault/PIP insurance covers initial medical expenses and lost wages. If costs exceed your coverage or injuries qualify as “serious,” you may pursue the at-fault driver for additional compensation.
When You Should Contact a Lawyer After a Car Crash
It’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Early legal help ensures:
- Evidence is preserved.
- Insurance deadlines are met.
- Mistakes with insurers are avoided.
The sooner you call, the stronger your case may be.
How We Help You
At The Saul Law Firm, we know how to win tough car accident cases. Our process includes:
- Investigating the crash scene and vehicles involved
- Interviewing witnesses and preserving evidence
- Reviewing medical records and lost income data
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts
- Managing all communication with insurers
- Taking your case to trial if necessary
We prepare every court case, even if it’s likely to settle. This aggressive approach often leads to better results for our clients.
Choose a Team That Fights for You
Other firms may treat your case like a number. We don’t. At The Saul Law Firm, LLP, you get the personal attention of a dedicated legal team that’s focused on your recovery. We’ve earned the trust of injury victims throughout Garden City and Long Island because we get results and we genuinely care.
Call now for a free consultation with a Garden City car accident attorney. Let’s talk about your rights, your injuries, and how we can help you move forward.
FAQs
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in New York?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If your claim involves a government agency, notice must be given within 90 days.
Can I still recover if I was partly at fault?
Yes. New York uses comparative negligence, meaning your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 25% at fault, you could still recover 75% of your damages.
What is the average settlement for a car accident case?
There’s no universal number. Settlements vary based on injury severity, fault, insurance policy limits, and long-term impacts. We pursue every dollar you deserve.
Should I speak to the insurance company?
No. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Let us handle those conversations so you don’t say something that could hurt your claim.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we win your case.
The Saul Law Firm, LLP helps clients throughout Garden City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westbury, Uniondale, Hempstead, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Westchester County.