When you turn to us for help with an issue, whether it involves family law, vehicle and traffic law, personal injury or any of the other legal issues we handle, you probably have an ideal outcome in mind already.
Our lawyers will listen carefully. We will listen until we truly understand your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims
After a car, truck or other motor vehicle accident, you will have questions. At the Albany law firm of Colwell, Colwell & Petroccione, LLP, our attorneys provide clients and potential clients with information they need to make decisions about taking legal action. Whether you review the material below or visit our upstate New York office, our lawyers want you to be informed.
Common questions include:
What can a lawyer do for me? An attorney knows precisely how damages are calculated and what can be included. Additionally, a lawyer knows the deadlines that apply and will make sure that your case is properly handled throughout the legal process.
I can't afford a lawyer. What can I do? Attorneys who handle car accidents and other personal injury claims work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the lawyer charges no attorneys' fee until winning your case. If the attorney fails to obtain a verdict or settlement for you, you owe no fee.
What can I expect to receive from my claim? Each case is different, so it is difficult to predict what compensation you might receive. The amount you might receive depends on your injuries, your age, your work and your family situation, to name just a few factors. We explore all the evidence in your case to calculate its value.
What if the other party had no insurance? Again, it depends on the circumstances. Many drivers in New York carry uninsured motorist coverage; if you have this, you may be able to collect from your own insurance company in addition to any damages you might receive from the other party.
Do I need a trial lawyer? Most car accident cases do not go to trial. However, it is important to prepare every case in anticipation of trial because the defendant's insurance company may make an inadequate offer or refuse to pay. We are always prepared to take your case to trial to get you the best result for your situation.
How long do I have to file a claim? You have three years to file a personal injury claim and two to file a wrongful death claim. If your injury occurred on public property or if the defendant is a government agency, different deadlines may apply. Although two or three years sounds like a long time, determining whether you have a case can take months or years. Don't hesitate to contact an attorney as soon as you think you might be eligible to file a claim.
Contact Our Albany and Schenectady Auto Accident Lawyers
Talk to the Albany car accident attorneys at Colwell, Colwell & Petroccione, LLP, if you have questions about filing an injury claim. You can benefit from a free consultation with no risk whatsoever.
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