New York City Auto Accident Attorney
Six Important Steps to Take after a Motor Vehicle Accident
Wait for Assistance
No matter what the circumstances, you should remain at the scene of the collision. Leaving the car accident scene before authorities arrive could make you seem responsible and put you at risk of hit and run charges. If it is safe to do so, move the vehicles out of traffic and over to the side of the road.
Call for Help
If there are any injuries, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance as soon as possible. If there are no serious injuries, you should still call the local police to begin the process of filing a police report.
Exchange Information
You should exchange details such as driver's license information, insurance information, and contact information with the other driver.
Take Pictures or Video
If you are able, take pictures or videos of the scene of the car accident as well as your own injuries.
Don't Apologize
Even if your natural instinct is to apologize, refrain from doing so. Even a simple "sorry" could be seen as an admission of fault, which could make you at least partially responsible for the accident. No matter what the circumstances, do not apologize.
Contact A New York City Car Accident Attorney
A New York City car accident attorney or White Plains car accident lawyer from the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC can help you protect your best interests every step of the way and ensure the best possible outcomes. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to get started.
Involved in a Car Accident? Talk to Our NYC & White Plains Car Accident Lawyers Today
The attorneys at the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC understand how traumatic and potentially devastating a car accident can be. We are committed to providing aggressive and reliable representation for victims—every step of the way. Our personal injury attorneys are affiliated with prestigious organizations, including:
- New York State Trial Lawyers Association
- American Association for Justice
- New York County Lawyers Association
Additionally, we have received a 10.0 rating and "Client's Choice" status by Avvo—a popular rating and review database for attorneys. Ready to experience our compassionate legal care firsthand? Request your free consultation online or call us at (914) 574-8330 or 212-858-0503. Our New York City practice has offices in midtown Manhattan (NYC) and White Plains, (Westchester County).
WHITE PLAINS: (914) 574-8330
NEW YORK CITY: (212) 858-0503
OUR NEW YORK CITY LAW OFFICE
18 West 33rd Street
Suite 400
New York, N.Y. 10001
OUR WHITE PLAINS LAW OFFICE
203 East Post Road
White Plains, N.Y. 10601
Samantha T.
I searched “car accident lawyer” after going through an accident that changed my life completely! I’m so glad that I found him. I can’t thank him enough for everything he has done. If you’re looking for the best lawyer that handles car accidents, trust you will be in great hands. Thanks again for everything Michael.
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Anne H.
Been with the Law Offices of Michael H. Joseph since 2012, and he is just great. So understanding, and an awesome guy in general. He is always providing me me with thoughtful and well reasoned advice, and overall was so communicative with me whether it was through email or by phone. Recommend Michael.
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Common Causes
of Auto Accidents
Although some auto accidents are simply unavoidable, our car accident lawyers know that most accidents are caused by negligent or reckless actions, such as:
Driving under the Influence
Despite New York's strict laws against drinking and driving, these accidents still happen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in the United States, nearly 10,500 people were killed in alcohol-related car accidents in 2016 alone. In New York, there were 7,000 alcohol-related traffic crashes in 2023, resulting in 335 fatalities.
Distracted Driving
Texting, talking on the phone, changing the settings of your GPS, and any other activities that require you to take your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving safely are considered distracted driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nine people are killed each day as a result of distracted driving in the United States alone.Speeding
Speeding puts other drivers, pedestrians, and bystanders at risk. Although speed limits are in place to protect everyone from harm, some drivers still subject others to injuries and death by speeding. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that almost 10,000 people were killed due to speeding in 2017 alone.Poorly Maintained Roads
Potholes and other signs of poor road maintenance can lead to many types of auto accidents. Because it is difficult to prove that road conditions contributed to an accident, you need an attorney who can gather strong evidence on your behalf to support your claim.Defective Auto Parts
If defective auto parts installed on a car, bus, truck, or motorcycle led to your accident, you may be eligible to collect damages from the parts designer, manufacturer, or distributor.If you believe that the negligent or reckless actions of another party directly contributed to your car accident, you should contact the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC as soon as possible. Our New York City and Westchester personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and resources to investigate the cause of your accident and point to the responsible party.
The Importance of Determining the Cause
Attorneys play an important role in helping determine the cause of a motor vehicle accident. By speaking to witnesses, gathering evidence, and working with trained accident reconstruction experts, car accident attorneys can determine who caused the accident and who is responsible for paying damages. By proving that the other party is liable for the car accident, an attorney can protect you and your assets.
Clients Give Us 5 Stars
"I actually did an internet search for car accident lawyers in the area. Initially the meeting with my attorney went well. He put all terms into language I could understand. They were pretty affordable, and I was happy with the final result."
Renee F.
Going It Alone vs. Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
After your car accident, the other party's insurance company will typically contact you to gather details about the accident. If the other driver is responsible, their insurance company is supposed to provide financial compensation for your property damage, medical bills, and other and our pedestrian accident lawyers can pursue a settlement for your personal injuries, and if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will file a lawsuit for you..
But our NYC car accident lawyers and White Plains car accident attorneys know that insurance companies are notorious for protecting their own interests by offering lowball settlements that may only cover a fraction of what you are actually owed. There is also a risk that your answers to their questions may be used to minimize your claim. Ideally, you should reach out to an attorney as soon as you are able so that he or she can speak to the insurance company on your behalf and make certain that you collect what you are truly owed.
If the insurance company refuses to provide a fair settlement even after a car accident lawyer gets involved, our New York City law firm can file a lawsuit for you. We are committed to providing world-class representation every step of the way. If a reasonable settlement cannot be achieved, our New York City car accident attorneys, or Westchester car accident lawyers, will not hesitate to take your car accident case to court.
Act Now If You Have Been Injured
Have you been putting off contacting a car accident attorney? Delays could affect the outcome of your case.
One of the most frequently asked questions that our New York car accident lawyers are asked is "How long Do I have to sue for a car accident?" In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. Unless you have a very unique reason why you did not meet the time limit, such as you were under the age of 18, the court can dismiss your claim if it is filed after the time limit expires. For accidents involving municipal vehicles, such as New York City santiation trucks or Westcheter County roadway vehicles, the statute of limitations is only one year and ninty days.
Because the statute of limitations is very strict, you need to contact a New York City car accident attorney or White Plains car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Don't waste time. Request your free consultation online or call the Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC:
WHITE PLAINS: (914) 574-8330
NEW YORK CITY: (212) 858-0503
THE BEST NEW YORK CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER
Michael is an excellent, intelligent lawyer who is committed to his clients and works through a case to a successful conclusion. He is extremely well versed, yet down to earth, and will keep you informed on all the details of your case from beginning to end. He is always accessible, and if he is not immediately available to speak with you, you can be certain to receive a call back within a short period of time.
Michael handled a personal injury automobile action for me that resulted in a large cash settlement. He was diligent in his preparation and a staunch defender of my rights throughout the entire process. I have no reservations in recommending Michael Joseph to anyone.
Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Auto Accident Attorney
Focus on Your Health
If you sustained injuries from your motor vehicle accident, your focus should be on your recovery. By gathering evidence, building a compelling case, and representing you in court, a car accident lawyer can allow you to focus on healing.
Pursue Maximum Compensation
While insurance companies are interested in protecting their own bottom line, our New York City attorneys are interested in protecting your best interests. Therefore, hiring a car accident lawyer is the best way to ensure you are getting maximum compensation.
Protect Your Future
Some injuries and losses may not be immediately obvious. In some cases, injuries may become apparent after you settle with an insurance company. But attorneys work with expert economists and medical providers to illustrate the full extent of your injuries and how they will affect you in the future.
We Represent Auto Accident Victims throughout the State
Finding a car accident lawyer close to home can be difficult, especially if you are trying to find a lawyer with the right experience, qualifications, and background. Our car accident attorneys have two conveniently located offices, in Midtown Manhattan and Downtown White Plains.
OUR NYC OFFICE
18 West 33rd Street
Suite 400
New York, N.Y. 10001
OUR WESTCHESTER COUNTY OFFICE
203 East Post Road
White Plains, N.Y. 10601
Our auto accident attorneys have handled virtually every type of auto accident case for clients in communities all over the state, including:
- Ardsley
- Armonk
- Bronx
- Bronxville
- Brooklyn
- Clarkstown
- Dobbs Ferry
- Elmsford
- Greenburgh
- Hartsdale
- Irvington
- Mamaroneck
- Manhattan (including midtown, harlem and lower Manhattan)
- Mount Pleasant
- Mount Vernon
- New Rochelle
- Nyack
- Ossining
- Peekskill
- Pelham
- Port Chester
- Queens
- Rye
- Scarsdale
- Sleepy Hollow
- Spring Valley
- Tarrytown
- Valhalla
- White Plains
- Yonkers
Can You Afford a Car Accident Lawyer?
The Law Office of Michael H. Joseph, PLLC wants to bring high-quality legal care to every victim, regardless of their background or income. Our NYC car accident lawyers and White Plains car accident attorneys only get paid if we win your case.
We offer free consultations for all auto accident victims. Depending on the circumstances of your case, we can find a payment plan that best suits your needs.
Adrienne K.
I'm quite satisfied with the services Mr. Joseph provided me. I heard about them from a local ad and figured I'd give them a shot, and it's worked out well. They have reasonable fees compared to other lawyers and they knew what they were doing.
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Jane F.
Michael went over and beyond the call of duty. The fee was so reasonable, they bent over backwards for me. We were very successful in our case, and I give nothing but the highest recommendation to his law firm.
View On GoogleTypes of Compensation You Can Recover
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages are restitution for the losses you incurred as a result of the auto accident. This can cover expenses such as payment for medical bills and rehabilitation, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, and a reduced earning capacity. The goal is to get you as close as possible to the life you had before your accident. Call our New York and Westchester car accident lawyers to discuss what you are entitled to.
Punitive Damages
If the other party involved in the case acted extremely negligently or dangerously, you may be eligible for punitive damages. Punitive damages are in place to financially punish the responsible party and discourage others from similar behavior. Ideally, this will prevent similar behavior in the future.
Ready to Recover What You Deserve?
If you or a family member were injured in an auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our New York City car accident lawyers and Westchester County car accident attorneys have offices in in Manhattan and White Plains. We can come to your home, hospital room, or another location if necessary. To speak to a car accident lawyer, request your free consultation online or call us:
White Plains: (914) 574-8330
New York City: 212-858-0503
NO MATTER HOW OR WHERE YOUR ACCIDENT HAPPENED
OUR NYC CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS
KNOW HOW TO WIN YOUR CASE
WHERE OUR NYC CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS HANDLE CAR ACCIDENT CASES
With our Midtown Manhattan office (10017) located a couple of blocks from Penn Station and Herald Sqaure, our NYC car accident lawyers represent people who suffer injuries in car accidents in Midtown Manhattan (10017), downtown Manhattan (10006), tribeca (10007), the Upper East Side- UES (10021(, (10028) (10044),Chelsea (10001) and Harlem (10029) and (10035). Our office is accessible to the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines, so our NYC car accident attorneys also represent accident victims from the Bronx (10475), including the Fordham area (10468) and Mott Haven (10459), and (10474).
WHERE OUR WESTCHESTER CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS HANDLE CASES FROM
From our Law Office in downtown White Plains, our office is walking distance to the Westchseter County Courthouse, and our Westchester car accident attorneys, handle car accident cases in White Plains (10601), Yonkers, (10701), (10703) and (10705), as well as Mount Vernon (10550), New Rochelle (10801) and (10802), Port Chester, (10573) as well as Hartsdale (10530) and (10583).
Accidents Because the Driver Was Texting While Driving
If you were injured because the driver of a car or truck wasn't looking where they were going, chances are that they were on their phone. Our car accident lawyers have represented people all over New York, who were injured because drivers were texting while driving. Texting while driving is prohibited by New York law, and whenever a driver takes their eyes off the road that creates a dangerous situation. Our New York car accident lawyers regularly issue subpeonas to get the cell phone record of the other driver. Our NYC and Westchester car accident lawyers know how to prove a case that the other driver was texting while driving.
PEDESTRIANS HIT BY CARS
If you were a pedestrian that was hit by a car, our New York pedestrian accident lawyers have the experience to get you the compensation that you deserve. Our Westchester and NYC pedestrian accident lawyers have decades of experience in representing pedestrians who suffered personal injuries because they were hit by a car. With offices in Manhattan and White Plains, our pedestrian accident lawyers are accessible and able to meet with you on short notice.
OUR VIRTUAL CAPACITIES
If you are unable to come to one of our offices, our Manhattan and Westchester car accident lawyers can do a virtual consultation. As a result of the Covid pandemnic, our law firm has transformed and adopted virtual capabilities, so we can meet with you, get papers signed and handle your case remotely. If you are unable to leave your home or are in the hospital, our car accident lawyers can do a full consultation with you by video, through Facetime, Whattsapp, Zoom, or Google Meets.We can prepare all the forms necessary to represent you and send them to you to sign through docusign.
So if you were hit by a car today or were in a car accident today and need to speak to a lawyer now, if you have a cell phone with a camera, our New York City and Westchester car accident lawyers can do a full consultation with you, wherever you are and you can retain us from your hospital bed or your home.
Still Have Questions about Your Accident?
Who is at fault in a car-pedestrian accident?
If you were hit by a car, the driver of the car has to provide first-party or no-fault benefits. This means that the driver's insurance company will be responsible for paying for medical treatment and loss of wages.
What if my family member was killed in a car accident?
If one of your family members was killed in a collision caused by a negligent or reckless driver, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Because the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is only two years in the state of New York, you need to file a claim as soon as possible.
How long will it take to resolve my accident case?
There is no set timeline for accident cases. The length of your individual case will depend on many factors, including the extent of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and the insurance company.
Can I recover compensation from a bar that served a driver alcohol prior to an alcohol-related accident?
In short, yes. The New York State Dram Shop Act makes a bar or restaurant that serves alcohol to an already intoxicated or underage person is legally responsible for his or her actions. If that person is later involved in a drunk driving accident, the bar or establishment that served them alcohol may be held liable.
Who is going to pay my medical bills?
Different types of automobile accidents have different regulations when it comes to who is responsible for paying damages. The entity responsible for covering these costs could be the insurance company covering the vehicle you were riding in or the insurance company of the other vehicle involved in the accident.
"The Best Lawyer I Have Ever Hired"
"I am very happy with the Law Office of Michael Joseph. I have been through a handful of lawyers and he is by far the best lawyer I have ever hired. Not only was he the best price, but very thorough, and always made sure I was on the same page."
Peter M.
