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If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Suffolk County, understanding how New York’s no-fault insurance works is essential. This system helps with things like medical bills and lost income after a crash, no matter who caused it. While it may seem straightforward, the rules can be complicated, and you might need help from a Suffolk personal injury lawyer from Trantolo Law to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

How No-Fault Insurance Works in New York

New York is a no-fault state, which means your own car insurance company pays for certain expenses if you’re injured in an accident. This coverage, typically referred to as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), is meant to help you recover financially without waiting for the insurance companies to determine who was at fault. The standard PIP coverage in New York is up to $50,000 per person for medical bills, lost income, and some other costs.

 

While this system provides quick payments for injuries, it doesn’t cover everything. It won’t pay for pain and suffering, emotional distress, or other non-economic damages. If you have severe injuries, you might qualify to pursue a personal injury lawsuit outside the no-fault system to recover additional compensation.

Filing a No-Fault Claim in Suffolk County

After an accident, you must act quickly to secure no-fault benefits. Here’s what you need to do:

 

• File a claim within 30 days: Your insurance company requires you to submit a no-fault claim application within 30 days of the accident.
• Keep records of medical treatment: Save all bills, receipts, and doctor’s reports related to your injuries.
• Provide proof of lost wages: If you can’t work due to your injuries, your employer must document your lost income for the insurance company.
• Follow all medical advice: Failing to attend appointments or ignoring treatment plans can hurt your claim.

 

If you miss deadlines or fail to provide the necessary documentation, your insurance company could deny your claim, leaving you responsible for your expenses.

When You Can Sue for Additional Compensation

No-fault insurance only covers basic expenses, but some injuries go beyond what PIP provides. In these cases, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit. Under New York law, you can sue if you suffer from:

 

• Significant disfigurement
• Broken bones
• Permanent loss of function in a body part
• A disability lasting at least 90 days within the first six months after the accident
• Any other serious injury that severely impacts your life

 

A personal injury lawsuit lets you seek compensation for things such as pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and other non-economic damages that no-fault insurance doesn’t cover. If your injuries are severe, consulting a personal injury lawyer in Suffolk County can help determine if you have a case.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

The actions you take immediately after a crash can make a big difference in your case. Here’s what to do:

 

1. Call 911: Always report the accident and get medical help if needed.
2. Get medical attention: Even if you feel fine, injuries sometimes show up later.
3. Exchange information: Get all contact and insurance details from everyone involved.
4. Take photos and videos: Document vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and any traffic signs.
5. Gather witness statements: If there were any witnesses who saw the accident, ask for their contact information.
6. Notify your insurance company: Report the accident as soon as possible to start the no-fault claims process.
7. Speak to a lawyer: If you’re seriously injured, an attorney can help protect and secure your rights and maximize your compensation.

Why You Should Work with a Suffolk County Personal Injury Attorney

Dealing with insurance companies can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re recovering from an injury. A Suffolk County personal injury attorney will help by:

 

• Reviewing your case to determine if you qualify for additional compensation
• Handling all communications with insurance company reps so you don’t have to
• Negotiating settlements to make sure you receive fair compensation
• Representing you in court if necessary

Get Legal Help Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Suffolk County, you don’t have to deal with the insurance process alone. A personal injury lawyer in Suffolk County can help guide you through the complexities of the legal system and fight for the best possible compensation. Don’t wait—take action today to protect your rights and secure your future.