If you have been in an automobile collision in New York, The Law Offices of Scott C. Gottlieb & Associates, LLP will help you determine the best course of action for your particular situation, whether settling out or court or fighting for your rights in court. Experience counts – and we have the successful track record in car accident cases and the commitment to obtain compensation for the injuries you have suffered.

Unfortunately, many New York car accident lawsuits are dismissed because the injury is not deemed "serious" according to NY law. If you are involved in a car accident in New York State, and you wish to file a claim for damages beyond economic compensation, such as pain and suffering or wrongful death, the law requires that your injuries must meet the requirements of a "Serious Injury." The conditions for a serious injury include one of the following:

• An injury so severe that it prevents the victim from performing daily functions for at least 90 days during the first 6 months following the accident.
• Dismemberment
• Significant disfigurement
• Fracture
• Loss of a fetus
• Permanent loss or limitation of the use of a body organ or function
• Death

You can seek compensation for lost wages and medical treatment through no-fault insurance benefits. It is important to know, however, that NY automobile insurance law requires that you meet very specific deadlines soon after your car wreck. For example:

• File Accident Report: 10-day deadline
• File for lost wages: multiple deadlines
• File for New York state Disability: 30-day deadline
• File No-Fault Claim: 30-day deadline
• File Notice of Claim (if applicable): 90-day deadline
• File claim against other driver: no specific deadline, but you are recommended to do it as soon as possible
• File claims with MVAIC (the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation – responsible for no-fault benefits for those injured by someone without insurance): multiple deadlines
• File SUM/UM claim (supplementary uninsured motorist /underinsured motorist): as soon as possible
• File lawsuit: Typically within three years, but it can be shorter under certain circumstances and a person who was a minor at time of accident may qualify for an extension

With so many quick deadlines, filing the appropriate forms on time can be challenging when you are recovering from a car crash. The Law Offices of Scott C. Gottlieb & Associates, LLP philosophy is to provide quality legal services while treating each client with care and respect. If you feel that you or a loved one has suffered because of a motor vehicle accident in New York state, contact us today for a free review of your case – call our 24-hour answering service at (607) 724-7700 or submit our online contact form.

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