Long Island Car Accident Lawyer

Advocating for Nassau County Car Accident Victims

No matter the severity, experiencing a car accident throughout Nassau County, New York, is a highly challenging time for anyone. Let the skilled Long Island car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C provide the legal counsel you need to receive the total and fair compensation you are entitled to.

Although car accidents can be devastating and life-altering—whether they involve motor vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians—our compassionate and knowledgeable Long Island car accident lawyer will help to relieve some of this stress by providing you with support, guidance, and legal expertise that you can rely on through this difficult time.

Every Long Island personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Gregory A. Goodman, P.C. has the experience and resources to establish a strong case proving that the negligent behavior of the opposing party resulted in their failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to the car accident and your suffering.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

In the chaotic aftermath of a car accident, taking immediate steps to protect yourself and your interests is crucial. We recommend the following actions:

• Ensure Safety First: If possible, prioritize safety by moving to a safe location. Turn on hazard lights, and call 911 for emergency assistance if injuries are severe.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other party involved. Be sure to collect the names and contact details of any witnesses.
• Document the Scene: Take pictures of the scene, which may include vehicle damage, license plates, and any relevant road signs or signals.
• File a Police Report: Reporting the incident to law enforcement is essential, even for seemingly minor accidents. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
• Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the obvious severity of injuries, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be displayed immediately, and having a medical record is crucial for legal proceedings.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Common injuries may include:

• Whiplash: A sudden jolt can cause the neck to whip around, resulting in whiplash. Symptoms may include neck pain, headaches, and dizziness.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can lead to fractures in various bones, requiring immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Severe accidents may cause traumatic brain injuries, varying from concussions to more severe cognitive impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Injury to the spinal cord could result in paralysis or lifelong disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle strains, sprains, and other soft tissue injuries can result in chronic discomfort and limitations in mobility.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a crash may cause internal injuries, like organ damage or internal bleeding.
• Psychological Trauma: Car accidents can leave lasting psychological scars, leading to conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Understanding No-Fault Laws in New York

New York is a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents, which means that your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Understanding how the no-fault law works is crucial for navigating the aftermath of a car accident in New York.

Key points about no-fault laws in New York:

• Your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the accident.
• In order to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet the "serious injury" threshold as defined by New York law.
• No-fault benefits do not cover property damage, so you may still need to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance for vehicle repairs or replacement.
• No-fault laws do not apply to motorcycle accidents, so riders are not eligible for no-fault benefits and can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for all damages.

Our experienced car accident attorney in Long Island can help you navigate the complexities of no-fault laws and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve after a car accident. 

How Long After a Car Accident Can I Sue in NY?

In New York, you have three years from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit. This time limit is known as the “statute of limitations.” The timeline begins running on the date the car accident occurred. However, there are some instances under which the statute of limitations may be much shorter.