In our experience, the average payout for a head-on collision in NY is $23,900. However, the payout amount can vary significantly based on several factors, including whether or not there was an injury, pain and suffering endured, the severity of the accident, and whether a death occurred.
The amount of compensation for damages you could receive can vary severely compared to someone else. It's important that you seek expert legal advice to discuss the uniqueness of your situation.
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If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on collision and need assistance with a car accident claim, don’t hesitate to reach out. A car accident lawyer in NYC from our firm can offer expert legal guidance tailored to your situation. Your recovery is our priority!
Maximizing your head-on collision settlement amount
The following points are key aspects you should keep in mind to ensure you maximize your potential settlement in New York and protect your rights:
- Time limits: In New York, the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit after a head-on collision is three years from the date of the auto accident. Missing this deadline will likely result in your case being dismissed, and you may not be able to receive compensation for your injuries.
- Legal representation: Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer in NYC can significantly increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. We have the knowledge and expertise of the legal system, will negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights.
- Gathering evidence: Evidence is vital in proving fault and determining the extent of damages in a head-on collision case. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographs or videos from the accident scene.
- Medical treatment: Seeking medical treatment immediately after a head-on collision will aid in both your well-being and the outcome of your case. Not only will it help you recover from any injuries sustained, but it also provides documented evidence of your injuries, which can strengthen your accident claim.
- Careful communication: Be cautious when discussing the accident, injuries, or settlement with anyone involved in the accident case, including insurance adjusters. Anything you say may be used against you to reduce your car accident settlement in New York.
- Documentation: Be sure to keep track of all expenses related to the New York car accident, including medical bills, lost wages due to missed work, and any other out-of-pocket costs. These receipts serve as evidence for your injury claim.
Note that the average payout for a head-on collision in NY is just that - an average. Your personal injury settlement amount may vary significantly based on your unique circumstances and the factors outlined above.
Also, while the date of the accident is important, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations in New York. For example, if you were under 18 at the time of the accident, or if the other driver involved was uninsured, you may have more time to file a claim.
Additional reading: no-fault car accident settlement in NY
Factors that affect your average payout for a head-on collision in NY
Various factors can impact the average car accident settlement in NY. Each element plays a significant role in determining the total amount that may be awarded:
Severity of injuries
The extent of injuries sustained in the collision directly correlates to car accident settlement amounts. Serious injuries typically result in higher medical costs and longer recovery times, impacting the overall payout.
For example, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or multiple broken bones can require extensive medical treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
This not only leads to high medical expenses but also loss of income due to the inability to work during recovery. In such cases, the car accident settlement amount is likely to be significantly higher to compensate for these financial losses and the pain and suffering endured by the victim.
On the other hand, minor injuries like whiplash, bruises, or strains may still result in some medical expenses and time off work, but they usually heal relatively quickly and do not have long-term consequences. As a result, the car accident settlement for these cases would be lower compared to more severe injuries.
Statement and actions of an accident victim following a car collision
Providing clear and accurate statements can strengthen a case, while missteps may undermine it.
For example, admitting fault or failing to keep your medical appointments and treatment plans can give car insurance companies an opportunity to dispute your claim or reduce the settlement amount.
Additionally, inconsistencies in your account of the events leading up to the accident can raise doubts about your credibility. It is essential to be honest and consistent in all your communications with insurance companies, healthcare providers, and legal representation to build a strong case.
Proper documentation of evidence, such as photographs of the scene, medical records, and witness statements, can also help support your claim and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
If you need assistance with determining fault for the accident or gathering evidence for your car accident case, we are here to help guide you.
Insurance coverage
In New York, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance, which covers damages for injuries and property damage up to a certain limit.
The minimum liability insurance coverage required for drivers in New York includes:
Bodily Injury Liability:
- $25,000 for bodily injury to one person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury to all persons involved in an accident.
Death Liability:
- $50,000 for the death of one person.
- $100,000 for the death of all persons involved in an accident.
Property Damage Liability:
- $10,000 for property damage in any one accident.
Additionally, New York requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP), also known as no-fault insurance, with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per person.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage is also mandatory, with minimum limits of:
- $25,000 per person.
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
These limits ensure that drivers have a basic level of financial protection in the event of an accident and are used to pay the victim of negligence.
Future expenses
Considering future medical treatments, ongoing therapy, and potential lost wages due to the long-term effects of injuries is vital when calculating compensation. These anticipated expenses can significantly elevate accident settlement amounts in New York.
For example, if an injured victim can no longer work due to severe injuries sustained in a head-on collision, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of future earnings. This can include not only the wages they would have earned if they were able to continue working, but also any potential career advancements, bonuses, or benefits they would have received in the future.
State laws
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, which can affect how claims for damages are processed.
Under this insurance law, regardless of who caused the accident, each driver's insurance company is responsible for covering their client's medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit. This can impact the final settlement amount because it limits the ability to seek additional damages from the at-fault driver.
This means the settlement can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your settlement will be reduced by 20%.
Contact our team today to see how New York law applies to your case and your accident compensation amount.
Our car accident settlement examples in New York
Below are some of our notable car accident lawsuit examples that demonstrate our commitment to maximizing compensation for our clients in New York:
$600,000
Our client was driving on the highway when she was hit from behind by another vehicle. The car crash caused significant damage to her back, requiring surgery and extensive physical therapy.
Our team of experienced car accident attorneys helped negotiate a settlement of $600,000 for our client's medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
$225,000
Our client was driving home from work when a drunk driver crossed the center line and struck him head-on. He suffered severe knee injuries, requiring surgery two years later.
Our team was able to secure a settlement of $225,000 which is significantly higher than the average settlement when hit by a drunk driver in New York. This ensured that our client received the necessary medical treatment and compensation for his pain and suffering.
$125,000
Our client was hit by two vehicles that were racing on a highway, causing significant damage to his knee. This also resulted in future lost wages as he was unable to return to his physically demanding job.
We successfully negotiated a $125,000 settlement to cover his medical expenses and lost wages. Our team also worked to hold both drivers accountable for their reckless behavior.
Typical damages you may be entitled to
In the aftermath of a car accident, victims may seek various types of damages to ensure they are compensated for their losses:
- Economic Damages encompass any quantifiable financial losses resulting from the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs directly related to the incident.
- Non-Economic Damages refer to intangible losses that are harder to quantify. This includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship. While these damages lack a specific dollar value, they are important in overall compensation, as they reflect the significant impact of the accident on a victim's quality of life.
- Punitive Damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or malicious behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. These damages are typically awarded in cases where gross negligence or intentional harm can be proven.
An experienced personal injury lawyer from our firm will carefully assess the details of your case to determine which types of damages you may be entitled to. We will also fight for your rights and ensure that you receive fair and just compensation for all of your losses.
The process for settling head-on collision claims in NY
- Initial Free Consultation: During the initial free consultation, a thorough evaluation of the accident details, injuries, and damages will be conducted. This helps in understanding the potential value of the case and strategies to pursue compensation.
- Negotiation Phase: After gathering all necessary documentation and evidence, we enter the negotiation phase. Here, our legal team communicates with the insurance companies to advocate for a fair settlement that adequately covers all incurred losses.
- Settlement Agreement: Once a satisfactory amount is agreed upon, both parties will review and sign a settlement agreement. This legally binding document outlines the terms of the compensation, ensuring the victim receives the promised payout without further claims against the at-fault party.
- Potential Litigation: If negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory result, litigation may become necessary. Our experienced attorneys are prepared to present the case in court, seeking the compensation our clients rightfully deserve through trial proceedings.
- Final Disbursement: Following the successful settlement or court ruling, the final disbursement of funds occurs. This includes paying any necessary legal fees and ensuring the client receives their share of the settlement promptly, marking the closure of the case.
We’ll get you the maximum payout you deserve
While we don't guarantee an average payout for a head-on collision in NY, we do guarantee our commitment to fighting for fair and just compensation for our clients.
Our dedicated team of experienced attorneys here at Ajlouny Injury Law is ready to fight for you. With our extensive experience in handling head-on collision cases, we have a proven track record of securing favorable settlements for our clients.
Let us help you understand your legal options and take the first step toward obtaining the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of an accident alone — contact our law firm today for a free consultation!
Key takeaways on what is the average settlement for a head-on collision
Being involved in a head-on car accident in New York can have devastating consequences, both physically and emotionally. However, with the right legal representation, you can receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
Remember that every case is unique and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. However, the more experienced and dedicated your legal team is, the better your chances are of receiving a fair settlement.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a head-on collision in New York, reach out to us at Ajlouny Injury Law for a free consultation. Let us guide you through this challenging time and help you get the justice you deserve.
