In New York State, including Brooklyn, car accidents are governed by complex laws. Hiring a car accident lawyer in Brooklyn with specialization can be critical for several reasons. There are several reasons why you should hire a skilled accident lawyer familiar with NY accident law and Brooklyn’s court system –
Understanding the No-Fault Insurance System
New York operates under a "no-fault" insurance system. This means that after a car accident, your insurance will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
However, there are limits to this no-fault system that you should be aware of –
No-Fault Coverage Limits – Typically, the NY no-fault insurance only covers up to $50,000 for basic economic losses (medical expenses, lost earnings, etc.). An experienced lawyer can help you determine whether your damages exceed this amount and whether you are eligible to pursue a claim outside the no-fault system.
Filing for Serious Injury – To step outside of the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver, New York law requires that you meet the "serious injury" threshold. This threshold includes significant injuries like fractures, disfigurement, or any injury resulting in permanent or significant limitations. Your accident lawyer can help establish whether your injuries qualify under this threshold and gather medical evidence to support your claim.