Sheepshead Bay Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injuries run the gamut, from motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, product liability, dangerous drugs to medical devices and more. The bottom line is that you are dealing with a serious injury because of the actions or inactions of another person.
These injuries are devastating and may cause permanent or long-term impairment. Because another party was irresponsible or even reckless, you are suffering physical and mental hardships and may find yourself unable to work as well as unable to pay your medical or other bills.
A Sheepshead Bay personal injury lawyer at Douglas and London protects your rights and holds those responsible for your injuries accountable. Since opening our practice in 2002, our compassionate and experienced attorneys have recovered more than $18 billion in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
What to do after a personal injury
If possible, use your smartphone to take photos or videos of the scene of the accident. Get the contact numbers and statements of any witnesses. Write down or record what happened to you immediately, while the details are still fresh in your mind. If you are too badly hurt to take accident videos, ask a relative or friend to visit the accident scene as soon as possible.
Always seek medical attention after an accident. Your failure to promptly see a doctor can harm your claim, as the insurance company might allege your injuries are not serious, or that they resulted from something else.
Never agree to an insurance settlement without consulting a lawyer. Keep in mind that insurance companies want to settle for as little as possible, and once you have agreed to a settlement, it is not re-negotiable.
New York statute of limitations
Every state has a date by which a personal injury case requires filing, and in New York it is three years from the date of the accident. If medical malpractice is involved, the statute of limitations is 2.5 years.
Should the person die from their injuries, the personal representative of the estate has two years from the death date in which to file a lawsuit.
If the injury involves a government agency, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, or if the accident occurred on a city bus or subway, the timeframe is considerably shorter. A claim against a city, county or the state of New York requires filing within 90 days.
Even though three years sounds like a long time, it is crucial to obtain legal counsel as soon as possible. Not only does a personal injury case require a great deal of investigation but waiting too long to pursue your case can mean that critical evidence disappears or is lost.
Contact Sheepshead Bay personal injury lawyers
After suffering a serious personal injury because of the recklessness or negligence of another party, you need the services of an experienced personal injury attorney at Douglas & London. Contact us today via telephone, text, or online to arrange a free consultation.
We can help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. There is never a fee unless we win.