Interstate Accidents
NYC interstate accident lawyers deal with some of New York’s most devastating road accidents. Incidents on the interstate are often very serious because they occur at high speeds and typically involve multiple vehicles.
If you’re in a wreck on the JFK, you run a greater risk of being killed or severely injured than you would in an accident on Northern Boulevard in Queens, even with modern safety features in your vehicle. It’s not just the high speeds that pose an issue — the large numbers of commercial trucks, construction maintenance zones, and distracted drivers all make driving less safe on our freeways.
We provide legal help for drivers and passengers who have been injured in freeway collisions in the five boroughs and Long Island. If you have been hurt in a freeway crash, or a member of your family has, it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. The success of your legal claim may depend on the steps you take in the moments after your wreck.
Why Choose an NYC Interstate Accident Lawyer From Tucker Lawyers?
The NYC Car Accident Lawyers at Tucker are prepared to do everything possible to ensure you receive the interstate accident compensation you need to get your life back on track. If your insurance coverage won’t be enough to properly compensate you for your accident, we can sue the at-fault party for damages.
On our testimonials page, you can read the stories of a number of our satisfied clients. They praise our diligence, professionalism and experience, and they explain how we helped them overcome difficult situations involving insurance companies and other defendants.
How an Interstate Accident Attorney Can Help You
A collision on the interstate will likely be among the most physically, financially, and emotionally draining events you’ll ever have to deal with. As a lawyer working on New York interstate accidents, it’s vital to recognize this and give clients the help they need from every perspective.
Our work to support interstate accident victims begins with a free initial consultation. Without the pressure of a billed meeting, you can come into our office (or speak to us remotely, depending on your situation and your preferences), and explain your accident to us in detail.
From there, we can recommend the best course of action for you based on your circumstances. If you have grounds for an interstate accident lawsuit, we can work on your case immediately. We’ll gather evidence from the crash scene, medical records, police reports, and other sources to build a clearer picture of the accident and why it happened.
From there, you have a stronger platform to negotiate with the defendant, whether it’s an insurance company or another party. An interstate accident lawyer in NYC usually tries to settle cases outside the courtroom, and our firm has plenty of experience driving hard bargains with insurance carriers.
Of course, when this isn’t possible, we’re always more than willing to fight our cases in court.
As well as litigating on your behalf, we’re also here to provide whatever other type of legal support you need throughout your accident recovery. If you have any questions about your entitlements, dealings with your insurance company, management of your medical records, or anything else, we’re here to help.
Freeway Accidents at High Speeds
Speed is a major determining factor when it comes to the severity of accidents, and cars usually travel more quickly on freeways than other types of roads. However, speed isn’t the only reason for interstate pile-ups. We commonly deal with clients who have suffered devastating injuries in freeway collisions caused by:
- Aggressive driving and road rage
- Driver inattention or distraction
- Tailgating or following at unsafe distances
- Passing too closely
- Unsafe lane changing
- Vehicles on the side of the road
- Debris in the roadway
- A construction zone.
Freeway Accidents Often Cause Calamitous Injuries
Injuries after a wreck on a busy freeway like the Van Wyck range from seemingly minor bumps and bruises to catastrophic injuries, and even death. Seatbelts and airbags often make the difference between moderate injuries and devastating ones. Below are some injuries commonly associated with freeway accidents:
- Broken bones
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Facial injuries
- Burns
- Soft tissue damage.
How Is Fault Determined in a New York Interstate Accident?
The State of New York uses what is called a “no fault” system of motor insurance. So, when you get involved in a road accident, you can file a claim with your own insurance company for lost wages and medical expenses, regardless of who was to blame for the collision.
However, no-fault insurance coverage typically is not comprehensive enough to cover all the losses arising from more serious incidents, such as interstate accidents. Securing more compensation means suing the at-fault party, which in turn means proving that party was to blame for your accident.
To achieve this, your NYC interstate accident attorney will conduct an in-depth review of all the available evidence and attempt to prove that your accident came about due to the negligence of the defendant in your case. Four key elements are necessary here, namely:
- Duty of care: The defendant had a legal obligation to take reasonable care not to harm you. In the context of interstate accident cases, all drivers owe this duty of care to all other road users.
- Breach of duty: A defendant is said to breach their duty of care when they fail to act as a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances. Speeding, running a red light, driving under the influence, and texting while driving would all be considered a breach of duty by anyone driving on an interstate.
- Causation: This requirement is one upon which a lot of personal injury cases hinge, as, depending on circumstances, it can be difficult to prove exactly what caused a particular incident. You must be able to prove your injuries would not have occurred if the defendant had not acted negligently.
- Damages: You must suffer actual harm or damages as a result of the defendant’s negligence. Damages can be economic (medical expenses, lost wages, property damage) or non-economic (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life).
Expenses Involved in Freeway Accidents
Depending upon the severity of your freeway crash, you could be facing tens of thousands of dollars, or more, in medical expenses, as well as months, or even years, of reduced earning capacity. Some injuries require ongoing medical care or multiple corrective surgeries. You may need to stay at a hospital or a care facility for an extended period of time or to have live-in care. Even with insurance, medical bills can quickly mount, bankrupting some families.
Freeway Accidents with Semi Trucks
Accidents involving 18-wheelers have the potential to cause major devastation. Weighing up to 80,000 pounds, these behemoths can obliterate even the stoutest SUV. Even new vehicles with high safety ratings have no chance against semis. Because trucking accidents involve an increased risk of serious injury and death, truckers – and their employers – must carry more comprehensive insurance than ordinary motorists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much can I expect to get from a New York freeway accident lawsuit?
Every case is different, so it’s difficult to provide an average interstate accident settlement amount. Relevant factors include the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, the degree of fault of the defendant, and the financial resources of the at-fault party.
How long does it take to resolve a New York interstate accident claim?
Again, providing a useful average here is difficult because of the wide-ranging differences between cases. Generally, however, the process can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. Cases that go to court take significantly longer.
How do I obtain a copy of the accident report for my NYC interstate accident?
You can request a copy of your accident report from the law enforcement agency that responded to the collision. You may need to pay a nominal fee to obtain the report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after an interstate accident in New York?
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to motor vehicle accidents is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that you have three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. It’s essential to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the required time frame, and to allow sufficient time for your attorney to gather evidence and build a strong case.
What to Do After a Freeway Accident on the LIE or Roosevelt Parkway
It is in your best interests to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as you can after you have a New York freeway accident. Whether you were involved in a semi-truck crash or struck by a drunk driver, the sooner you talk to a lawyer, the better.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a freeway accident on the Cross-Westchester or any New York freeway, contact a New York Interstate Accident Lawyer from our firm for a free, no-obligation consultation: (516) 399-2364
Managing Attorney John. J. Tucker, Esq.
John has personally handled thousands of clients who were victims of another’s negligence and fights relentlessly for their rights. John enjoys bringing closure to a client’s matter so that the injured party can move forward with their life. His background enables him to evaluate complex liability related claims and bring resolution to claims in a record time frame. [ATTORNEY BIO]
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Tucker Lawyers. From the very beginning of my case, they demonstrated unwavering dedication and professionalism. They were consistently ‘on top of everything,’ ensuring no detail was overlooked. Their proactive communication was remarkable I truly appreciated the regular calls and follow-ups after my doctor appointments, which kept me informed and reassured throughout the process. – Meaghan L.
I would highly recommend Tucker Lawyers. During a very stressful time and not knowing where to turn Tucker Lawyers really stepped up to the plate and put my mind at ease. They were very attentive and guided me and my family through this ordeal with a very successful outcome. John Tucker was fantastic. Very diligent and kept on top of things. You have a client for life for life. – Joan L.
