The aftermath of a car accident can be disoriented, especially if you suffered a serious injury. While you focus on your recovery, you may be alarmed by the costly medical bills, lost wages, and other unanticipated expenses associated with the accident. You may wonder how you’ll be able to pay these bills so that you can get your life back on track. So, what steps can you take to obtain the compensation you deserve? The process of pursuing compensation following an auto accident in Westchester County can be complicated, so it’s important to take a few minutes to understand some of the basics.
New York’s No-Fault Car Insurance System
Like a few other states, New York essentially follows a “no-fault” car insurance system. This means that you will typically seek compensation from your insurance company following an auto accident. You’ll file a claim with your insurance carrier and they will cover your medical costs and other qualifying out-of-pocket expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. It’s important to remember that the no-fault system does not allow you to recover compensation for “pain and suffering” you suffered as a result of the accident. While the no-fault car insurance system can be fairly straightforward for minor injuries and accidents, some cases may allow you to move beyond this system to pursue damages directly from the driver responsible for the accident.
Serious Injury Car Accident Claims in Westchester County
In some circumstances, you may be able to pursue compensation from the party responsible for your injuries. If you suffered a serious injury, you may have cause to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other party or pursue a claim through their insurance company. In order to qualify for these options, you’ll need to demonstrate that the accident caused you a serious injury, such as disfigurement, a bone fracture, the permanent limitation of the use of a body organ, the severe limitation of the use of a body function or system, or a substantial disability for at least 90 days following the incident. It’s important to consult with a medical professional who can document the nature and severity of your injuries so that you can move forward with your claim.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
While you have the option of pursuing compensation on your own, working with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer allows you to explore all courses of action available to you. There are so many factors that may influence your ability to secure the compensation you need in order to rebuild your life, and the process often becomes complex and overwhelming. Let your attorney represent your best interests while you focus on what matters most—your health and your recovery.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury following an auto accident in White Plains or Westchester County, call Gash & Associates, P.C. today at (914) 328-8800 to arrange a free consultation with a dedicated personal injury attorney.