After a crash, most people have the same questions. Here are short answers to the ones we hear most often.

Every case is different, and this page is general information, not legal advice. A Brooklyn car accident lawyer can answer questions about your own situation.

What should I do right after a car accident?

Check for injuries, call 911 if anyone is hurt, and move to a safe place if you can. Exchange information, take photos and get medical care, even if you feel fine.

Our guide on what to do after an accident has the full checklist.

Should I see a doctor if I feel okay?

Yes. Some injuries do not show symptoms right away. A medical visit also creates a record that links your injuries to the crash.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

New York generally gives you three years to start a personal injury lawsuit. CPLR 214 lists personal injury actions among those that must be started within three years, with some exceptions.

Shorter deadlines can apply, for example in claims against a government body. See our page on the statute of limitations for personal injury cases.

What if I was partly at fault?

Being partly at fault does not necessarily end your claim. New York uses a comparative fault system, which can reduce what you recover by your share of the blame. Read how Brooklyn’s comparative fault law works.

Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?

Be careful. The other driver’s insurer works to protect its own interests. Avoid giving a recorded statement or signing anything before you understand your rights.

We explain this in more detail in our guide to dealing with insurance companies.

What is my claim worth?

There is no single number. The value depends on your injuries, your medical costs, your lost income and how the accident has changed your life.

To understand the categories, read about economic vs. non-economic damages in Brooklyn.

How long will my case take?

It depends on your injuries, how clear fault is and whether the insurer is willing to settle. Some cases resolve in months. Others take much longer, especially if a lawsuit is filed.

Will my case go to trial?

Most injury cases end in settlement, but some go to court. A lawyer can prepare your case so that you are ready either way.

Do I need a lawyer?

Not every minor crash requires one. If you were seriously hurt, if fault is disputed, or if the insurer is pressuring you, legal advice can make a real difference.

How much does a lawyer cost?

Many injury lawyers use a contingency fee arrangement, which we explain in our page on how contingency fees work. During a free consultation, we can talk through how fees would work in your case.

Talk to a Brooklyn Personal Injury Lawyer

Still have questions? At Edelstein, Faegenburg & Blyakher, LLP, we can review your situation and explain your options. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

We also help injured people in Manhattan.

Back to Personal Injury Resources →

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