Hempstead, NY, is home to over 750,000 people in a tightly packed area of just 118 square miles. That much congestion will lead to accidents of all kinds, making it likely you’ve experienced some personal injury living here on Long Island. 

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident in Hempstead, you will need a skilled and knowledgeable Hempstead accident lawyer who can assist you with the claims process, negotiating with the insurance company, and the filing of a lawsuit if necessary.

The Falkowitz Law Firm has represented many Hempstead residents who have been in an accident and suffered everything from minor injuries to life-altering trauma. Their team has the skill, experience, and dedication to be a strong advocate for you or your loved one and handle all the details for you.

Steps to Take After a Hempstead Accident

The actions you take immediately following your accident could have an impact on your recovery from any injuries you may have suffered as well as the potential monetary compensation for your losses. Below are the steps you should take if you’re able to, immediately following your accident.

  1.  Call 911: Call the police immediately and request emergency medical attention for yourself, any passengers, and anyone else who may have been injured in the car accident.
  2.  Witness Information: You’ll want to get the name, address, and telephone number of any witnesses. Many times witnesses will leave once the police and emergency medical personnel arrive on the scene, so it’s vital to try to obtain this information as quickly as possible.
  3.  Take Pictures: Use your phone or camera to photograph any injuries. Try to get a wide shot that shows where the accident happened. Also, if possible, try to take a picture of any environmental factors that may have contributed to the accident.
  4.  Seek Medical Treatment: Even if you don’t feel you require emergency care, see a doctor as soon as possible after the car accident. Some injury symptoms don’t show up for a day or so after the car accident occurred. Additionally, a medical examination will document any injuries you may have in case you have a legal claim.

Handling the New York Insurance Companies After an Accident in Hempstead

You may assume that your insurance company is going to help you after your car accident in Hempstead. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. The goal of most insurance companies is to pay you as little as they can for damages.

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident and the other driver was negligent, you should receive fair compensation for any injuries and other damages you or your loved one sustained. You may be entitled to receive compensation for emotional suffering, pain, and financial hardships as well.

After the accident, when you contact your insurance company, they may want you to make a recorded statement. Refuse to give a recorded statement and don’t volunteer any information. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you when it’s time to settle your claim. 

You should contact a Hempstead accident lawyer to ensure that your insurance company can’t take advantage of you and your situation. The team at the Falkowitz Law Firm have handled all types of personal injury cases and will review everything as it pertains to your accident.

Types of Accidents on Hempstead

Protecting Your Legal Rights After an Accident

In New York, there are strict time limits in which you have to file your lawsuit as a result of your accident. If you don’t file your lawsuit within the given amount of time, the court may choose not to hear your case, barring any extraordinary circumstances. The time limit is often referred to as the statute of limitations.

In New York, the statute of limitations is three (3) years from the date of the accident. However, if a loved one died in the accident, you have two (2) years to file your lawsuit according to the wrongful death statute of limitations in New York.

Most of the time, the statute of limitations will begin at the time of the accident. However, there are exceptions, such as in a claim for wrongful death where your loved one initially survived, but later died as a result of their injuries.

Additionally, tighter time limits could apply to your accident if your crash involved a government vehicle. 

Why You Need a Hempstead Accident Lawyer

By contacting Hempstead accident attorney, Gary Falkowitz, you can stop worrying and rest assured the Falkowitz Law Firm and his experienced team will work hard to build your case, deal with the paperwork, and work with the insurance company to get you all the monetary compensation you or your loved one deserves.