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Car accidents can occur in the bustling streets of any city, but New York City’s unique urban landscape presents its own set of challenges. With an extensive network of roads, heavy traffic congestion, and a high population density, NYC witnesses a wide range of car accidents on a daily basis. When it comes to seeking compensation for you injuries, understanding the different types of car accidents and their effects on a potential claim can help. In this article, we will explore some common types of car accidents that occur in New York City and delve into how they can impact your personal injury claims.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent types of car accidents in New York City. These accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle, often due to distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden stops. According to Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1129, motor vehicle drivers must maintain a reasonable and safe distance from the vehicle in front, considering the speed, traffic, and road conditions. Therefore, in most cases the rear vehicle, the rear driver is considered at fault. However, establishing liability can be complex, especially in situations where the lead driver was negligent or their vehicle lacked functional brake lights. It is important to gather evidence, such as photographs and witness statements, to support your insurance claim.
Intersection Accidents
Intersections in New York City can be chaotic, with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists converging from multiple directions. Intersection accidents frequently involve T-bone collisions, where one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a T shape. Determining liability in intersection accidents depends on many factors such as, traffic light signals, right-of-way violations, and driver negligence. Collecting evidence, including traffic camera footage and eyewitness accounts, can be helpful in supporting your claim.
Pedestrian Accidents
Given New York City’s dense pedestrian population, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in New York City. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Pedestrian accidents can occur due to distracted driving, failure to yield, speeding, or disobeying traffic laws. New York’s no-fault insurance law typically covers medical expenses for pedestrians injured in car accidents, but additional compensation can be sought from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If you are a pedestrian seeking compensation for a car accident you have multiple options. You can file an insurance claim with the car that hit you. If the identity of the vehicle or its insurance status is unknown, you can file a claim with the insurer of a household family relative who had auto insurance during the accident. In the absence of an auto insurance policy in the household, you should file a claim with the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC).
Rideshare Accidents
With the rise of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, car accidents involving rideshare vehicles have become more prevalent in New York City. These accidents can involve collisions between rideshare vehicles, accidents caused by rideshare drivers, or accidents where rideshare passengers are injured. Determining liability can be complex, as multiple parties, including the rideshare company and driver, may share responsibility. It is important to report the accident to the rideshare company while on the app, gather evidence, and consult with an attorney immediately familiar with rideshare accident claims.
Navigating the Aftermath of a Car accident
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in New York City can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to filing a personal injury claim. Understanding the different types of car accidents and their implications on claims is vital for securing the compensation you deserve when injured in an accident. Whether you were involved in a rear-end collision, intersection accident, pedestrian accident, or a rideshare-related incident, gathering evidence, seeking immediate medical attention, and consulting with a skilled and knowledgeable attorney is essential steps toward a successful insurance claim. The attorneys at Shalom Law will ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. We are prepared to fight hard to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation: (718) 971-9474.