Whether you’re in the Big Apple for business or pleasure, you’re probably looking forward to the culture, the sights, and — most importantly — the pizza. However, traveling through New York City can be stressful and dangerous. You can be overwhelmed if you’re not careful, and getting into a car accident is easy.
This guide can help you understand New York’s driving and insurance laws, show you resources, and walk you through the aftermath of a car crash. No one plans on getting hurt, but it’s better to be prepared than to be left without any idea what to do.
It can be confusing when you’re driving somewhere new. Even if you’re a New Yorker heading to NYC, you could be anxious if it’s not somewhere you’re accustomed to driving. For out-of-state drivers, there are some key points to understand in case you are in an accident.
Each state has its own unique traffic laws. While many are standard no matter where you are, some state laws can impact who is deemed responsible for a car accident and to what degree they are liable should you file an insurance claim.
No-Fault insurance was implemented in the 1970s so insurance companies would pay for injuries caused by a crash no matter who caused it. The policy was designed to expedite claims while keeping other crash-related costs down.
Basically, under no-fault insurance in New York, your “economic losses” are covered up to $50,000. That includes medical expenses and lost wages. It does not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. You can file a claim to cover those losses.
If your state doesn’t use no-fault insurance, don’t worry. You should be able to file a no-fault claim as a NY resident. Use Form NF-2 to apply for a no-fault claim within 30 days of the accident.
Like most states, New York has a personal injury statute of limitations, which is essentially a deadline for legal action. You have two years after the accident to file a claim. You only have 30 days to file a claim for no-fault coverage.
Under no-fault insurance, you can recover medical expenses and lost wages. That means doctors’ visits, appointments with specialists, prescription medication costs, and travel expenses for treatments. You’ll also receive up to $2,000 for lost wages if your injuries disrupt your ability to work.
With a third-party claim, you can also sue the at-fault driver for other damages. A civil action can recover things like pain and suffering, loss of consortium, or emotional distress.
You’ll probably be disoriented if you’re hurt in a crash while traveling. Who should you call? Where can you get medical treatment? This guide can answer your questions and prepare you for the worst.
The procedure for handling a crash in NY is fairly standard. Try to remain calm and follow these steps:
If you’re visiting New York, you should know where to get help if the worst happens. Better to have resources and not need them than be stuck without them.
New York comprises five boroughs, mini-cities within a large one: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. You can find medical care in each. Knowing which borough you’re in can help you direct medical or police assistance.
BronxCare Health System: 1650 Grand Concourse, The Bronx, NY 10457
Maimonides Midwood Community Hospital: 2525 Kings Highway at East 26th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11229
NewYork-Presbyterian Allen Hospital: 5141 Broadway at 220th Street, New York, NY 10034
NewYork-Presbyterian Queens: 56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355
Staten Island University Hospital – Northwell Health: 475 Seaview Ave, Staten Island, NY 10305
Getting help after a car accident is critical. Understanding who you can rely on and who can support you if you’re not from New York can help you recover the compensation you’ve lost. The attorneys at Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., have helped New York residents and out-of-state drivers pursue damages after a crash.
If you or a loved one have been hurt in a crash, contact the car accident injury lawyers with HKD. We know that car accidents are traumatic, and being in an unfamiliar area with little support can multiply that stress.
Call 212-490-5700 or use our online form to schedule your consultation.
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07/05/2015
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