Meet Your Suffolk County Car Accident Attorneys
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny has built a reputation as a dedicated advocate for individuals facing personal injury claims throughout New York, particularly in cases involving auto accidents, slip and falls, pedestrian incidents, and premises liability. His approach focuses on offering personalized attention to each client, ensuring they receive the support and guidance they need throughout the legal process.
A graduate of St. John’s University, Paul began his career under the mentorship of Daniel Galinson, one of New York's top attorneys, and his firm has since recovered over $150 million for clients.
Paul's commitment to helping clients through some of their most challenging times drives him to fight tenaciously for their rights, working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz is a skilled New York personal injury attorney known for his impressive litigation experience, advocating for injured New Yorkers in a range of personal injury cases. His approach goes beyond legal representation, as he serves as a personal advocate for his clients, answering their questions and guiding them through both the short and long-term aspects of the legal process.
As a former competitive athlete, Michael brings the same necessary determination and resilience to the courtroom when taking on large insurance companies and their vast legal teams. His dedication to securing fair settlements for his clients is unwavering, and if a fair offer isn’t made, he isn’t afraid to take the case to court.
In fact, Michael secured one of New York State's top 50 settlements in 2021, recovering $730,000 for a client whose case had been previously dropped by another attorney.
Michael's proactive communication style, consistent strategies, and focus on achieving maximum compensation make him a trusted ally for clients involved in the personal injury claims process.
Important Initial Advice If You've Been Injured in an Accident
After an auto accident, taking the right steps immediately can have a lasting impact on your health, legal standing, and potential compensation. Here’s some essential advice to follow:
1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries—like concussions or internal damage—may not present symptoms until later. Getting immediate medical care ensures your well-being and documents your injuries for your case.
It is also important to seek medical attention right away because insurance companies may question delayed treatments, making it harder to prove your injuries.
2. Contact a Suffolk County Car Accident Lawyer Immediately
Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the success of your case, so don’t wait to seek legal advice. An experienced attorney from our firm can help you understand the relevant laws, negotiate with insurance companies, and work toward maximizing the compensation you receive.
3. Limit Social Media Activity
Insurance adjusters often review social media accounts, looking for information to reduce claims. Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or anything related to your case.
You should also be cautious about posting anything on social media, whether it seems relevant to your case or not. Even casual posts about everyday activities can be used against you to argue that your injuries are not severe.
4. Don’t Rush to Accept the First Settlement Offer
The first offer from the insurance company is often lower than what you deserve. Their goal is to settle quickly and cheaply, so take your time, consult with an experienced Suffolk County car accident lawyer, and ensure that all future medical treatments, lost wages, and other damages are accounted for in the settlement.
5. Be Cautious with Insurance Communications
Be mindful of your language when speaking with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters may twist your words to reduce or deny your claim, so avoid admitting fault, making statements that downplay your injuries, or agreeing to recorded statements without legal guidance.
6. Report the Accident
Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident, but keep your communications brief and factual. Provide basic information, but avoid detailed explanations or assumptions until you’ve consulted an attorney.
7. Stay Off Work Until Cleared by a Doctor
Returning to work too soon can aggravate your injuries and hurt your claim for lost wages. Make sure you’re medically cleared before resuming work, and keep detailed records of missed workdays to ensure you're properly compensated.
8. Do Not Admit Fault
Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of guilt, which can jeopardize your claim. Remain calm and courteous at the scene, but avoid discussing fault or liability until the full investigation is completed.
Our expert team of lawyers can take on the insurance company and guide you on the steps above, removing the burden from you. Contact us today to find out how.
Your Deadline For Filing a Claim
Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a car accident claim in New York. The state has strict statutes of limitations that dictate how long you have to file a lawsuit after an accident.
For personal injury cases, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file your claim. If your case involves wrongful death, the deadline is even shorter— just two years from the date of death.
Missing these deadlines can be devastating to your case, as the court will likely dismiss any lawsuit filed after the statute of limitations expires. Additionally, key evidence can be lost, and witnesses’ memories may fade over time, all of which can weaken your chances of receiving fair compensation.
To protect your legal rights, it's important to reach out to a lawyer from our firm as soon as possible after your accident. A skilled Suffolk County car accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, help collect important evidence, and ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.
Don’t delay—acting quickly increases your chances of building a strong case.
Gathering Evidence
Gathering evidence after an accident is important for building a strong case. To help simplify the process, here’s a rundown of the key evidence you should start collecting as soon as possible:
- Police documentation: Obtain a copy of the police report, which provides an official account of the accident, including details about the parties involved and any citations issued. This report can be a vital piece of evidence in proving fault and supporting your claim.
- Medical records: Keep all records related to your medical treatment, including hospital bills, prescription receipts, and doctor’s notes. These documents illustrate the extent of your injuries and the medical care you’ve received, which is essential for claiming compensation.
- Eyewitness statements: Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their statements can provide an unbiased account of what happened and support your version of events.
- Photo/Video evidence: Take clear photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Visual evidence can help reconstruct the accident and illustrate the severity of the damages.
- Examples of driver negligence: Document any evidence of negligence, such as traffic violations, distracted driving, or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. This documentation could include photos of damaged traffic signals or debris on the road.
- Insurance information: Exchange insurance details with the other party or parties and keep a record of all communications with insurance companies. You will need this information when filing your claim and negotiating compensation.
- Employment records: If your injuries affect your ability to work, gather proof of lost wages or employment records that prove you were absent due to the accident.
We know that managing all of this evidence while recovering from an accident can be daunting, but that's where we come in. Contact our office to take the burden off your shoulders.
Our experienced team will handle the evidence gathering so you can focus on getting better, while we work hard to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
At our firm, we primarily use a contingency fee model, which means you don’t have to worry about paying upfront.
Here’s how it works:
- No upfront fees: With a contingency fee arrangement, you don’t pay anything out of pocket when you hire us. Instead, our fee is a percentage of your settlement or award, which means if we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us any legal fees.
- Percentage of recovery: The contingency fee usually ranges from 25% to 40% of the amount we recover for you. We’ll discuss and agree on this percentage before we start working on your case, and it will be clearly outlined in your contract.
- Additional costs: While you won’t pay upfront, there may be additional costs like court fees, medical record expenses, or expert witness fees. We usually cover these initially and then deduct them from your settlement if you win your case.
- Clear explanation: We’ll explain all of our fees and any additional costs upfront, so there are no surprises. It’s important to review the fee agreement carefully and ask any questions you might have.
By choosing a law firm that works on a contingency fee basis, you can focus on your recovery without worrying about immediate legal costs. We’re committed to working hard on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve, and value transparency in our communication with you.
If you have any questions about our fees or process, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Why Choose Us Over Other Suffolk County Car Accident Attorneys?
When choosing a car accident attorney, you want someone who stands out from the rest. Here’s why our firm is the right choice for you:
- Personalized Attention: Unlike large firms where you might feel like just another case number, we offer personalized attention to each of our clients. We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has a strong track record of success in handling car accident cases, and we’ve demonstrated our ability to fight for the compensation you deserve by securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. For example, we’ve achieved an $1,800,000 settlement for a client who needed multiple knee surgeries.
- Experienced Attorneys: Our attorneys have extensive experience in personal injury law, specifically car accident cases. With years of experience and a deep understanding of New York’s legal landscape, we know how to manage complex cases and deal with insurance companies effectively.
- Client-Centered Approach: We believe in building strong relationships with our clients and keeping you informed every step of the way. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and make sure you feel comfortable with the legal process.
- No Win, No Fee: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront costs. Our fees are only collected if we win your case, so you can focus on your recovery without financial stress.
- Dedicated Support: We’re dedicated to providing compassionate support throughout your case. We understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in the success of your case. With our personalized service, proven success rate, and client-focused approach, you can trust us to handle your car accident claim with the care and expertise it deserves.
Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you get the compensation you’re entitled to.
General Information on Car Accidents in Suffolk County
Car accidents are unfortunately common occurrences in Suffolk County, impacting many lives each year. Whether they involve minor fender-benders or serious collisions, these incidents can have significant consequences for those involved.
Below, we’ll provide an overview of some key aspects related to car accidents in Suffolk County, including common causes and typical injuries.
Suffolk County Car Accident Statistics
The New York State Department of Health estimates that each week, 2 people die as a result of traffic collisions in Suffolk County, and car accidents are the 4th leading cause of injury-related deaths in the county. Tragically, the majority of accidents are preventable, caused by negligence, inattention, or wrongdoing.
In Suffolk County, in a single year, car accidents result in an estimated:
- 129 deaths
- 995 hospitalizations
- 12,406 emergency department visits
- $86.8 million in hospitalization charges
- $50.3 million emergency department charges
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another person, you might be entitled to compensation. Even if you were partially to blame for the accident, you might still be able to recover damages.
Call our office today to speak directly with a Suffolk County car accident lawyer.
Causes of Suffolk County Car Accidents
Car accidents in Suffolk County, like in other areas, can stem from a variety of causes. Understanding these causes can help in both preventing accidents and preparing for the legal aftermath if one occurs.
Here are some common factors that contribute to car accidents in Suffolk County:
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents, many of which result from activities like texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving. It’s a serious issue, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting that distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in 2022 alone.
- Speeding: Excessive speed is another major factor in car accidents. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in road conditions or traffic situations, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
- Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction time. Suffolk County, like the rest of New York, has strict laws against DUI, but unfortunately, impaired driving continues to cause accidents.
- Reckless driving: Reckless driving, including aggressive behaviors like tailgating and running red lights, can lead to serious accidents.
- Poor road conditions: Inadequate road maintenance or poor road conditions, such as potholes or unclear road markings, can contribute to accidents. Local authorities and road maintenance teams work to address these issues, but they can still pose risks to drivers.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Suffolk County
Car accidents in Suffolk County can vary widely in type and severity. Drivers should be familiar with the most common types to further understand potential risks and the legal implications if they are involved in a crash.
Here are some of the most frequent types of car accidents in Suffolk County:
- Rear-End Collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another, and they are among the most common types of accidents in the area. This type of accident often happens due to sudden stops or distractions.
- Intersection Accidents: Accidents at intersections can be caused by drivers running red lights, failing to yield, or making improper turns. These accidents are particularly dangerous for drivers that are unfamiliar with the area, or if high speeds are involved.
- Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as T-bone accidents, side-impact collisions occur when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another. These collisions often happen when one driver fails to stop at a stop sign or red light, and they can result in severe injuries, especially for occupants on the side of the impact.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents involve only one car and can result from many factors, such as losing control due to poor road conditions, driving under the influence, or weather-related issues. The Suffolk County Traffic Safety Board's statistics show that single-vehicle accidents make up a notable percentage of accidents in the region.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene before providing contact information or assistance. Depending on how difficult it is to locate the driver, the recovery process and legal proceedings for these accidents may be complicated for the victims.
Types of Injuries We See as Lawyers
As personal injury lawyers in Suffolk County, we encounter a range of injuries from car accidents. These injuries can vary from minor to severe, but all injuries impact individuals' lives and ability to work and function normally:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a common neck injury caused by the sudden jerking motion of a car crash. It often results in pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
- Broken bones: Car accidents can lead to various fractures, including broken arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Head and brain injuries: Injuries to the head and brain, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), can occur even in seemingly minor accidents. These injuries can have long-term effects on cognitive function and quality of life.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or full paralysis, significantly affecting a person's mobility and independence. Spinal cord injuries are often the result of severe collisions and can result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Internal injuries: Internal injuries, including damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, or spleen, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. These injuries are not usually visible but can have severe consequences.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries include damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, such as strains and sprains. While often less severe than fractures, these injuries can still cause significant pain and discomfort.
Other Locations We Serve
Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch legal support across the entirety of New York City and beyond. We proudly serve clients throughout the region, including but not limited to:
No matter where you are in these areas, we're here to offer experienced and compassionate legal assistance tailored to your needs.
Speak to a Suffolk County Auto Accident Lawyer Today!
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in Suffolk County and need expert legal assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our Suffolk County personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (888) 495-8087 or schedule a free consultation on our website to take the first step toward securing your rights and obtaining the justice you deserve.
